Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2009 NFL Draft Review

Sports Network | April 26, 2009

(Sports Network) -

1 - Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State (6-6, 248); 3 - Roy Miller, DT, Texas (6-1, 310); 4 - Kyle Moore, DE, USC (6-5, 272); 5 - Xavier Fulton, T. Illinois (6-4, 302); 7 - E.J. Biggers, CB, Western Michigan (5-11, 180); 7 Sammie Stroughter, WR, Oregon State (5-9, 189)

Analysis: In what was perceived as a weak quarterback class, you just knew that some team would reach for a QB early. That team ended up being the Bucs, who made a trade with Cleveland to move up and select Freeman, who some had rated as a second-round talent. Freeman's selection means that new Buc Byron Leftwich's days are numbered, and current Tampa Bay signal-callers Luke McCown and Josh Johnson couldn't have been thrilled with the selection either. The Bucs' next selection came on the second day, when they filled a need by taking Miller, who lacks skill but is a high-effort type. Moore could help as a situational pass rusher, but Fulton is a project who is going to struggle to stick.

Bottom Line: Freeman looks like a reach at this stage, and the Bucs also failed to find another impact receiver for whoever plays QB.

Grade: C+