Mock draft season is already in full swing, as the 2023 NFL draft process continues to ramp up.
The latest projection from ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. sends a surprise name to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round: Georgia Tech defensive lineman Keion White.
Here's what Kiper had to say about the selection:
It's hard to go wrong projecting any defensive position to the Bucs in this year's first round, considering what they're set to lose in free agency. Outside of Vita Vea and 2022 second-round pick Logan Ryan, pretty much the entire defensive line group is headed for the open market this offseason.
White is one of this year's more intriguing interior defenders in the draft, and it wouldn't be shocking to see him move up the board in the coming weeks with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl, as well as the NFL Scouting Combine.
If that happens, a top-20 slot shouldn't be out of the question, and there's no denying he could fit a big need in Tampa Bay.
To check out Kiper's full mock draft at ESPN, click here.
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Story originally appeared on Buccaneers Wire
