We mentioned early this offseason that the Bucs probably would have to choose between re-signing linebacker Barrett Ruud or guard Davin Joseph. Their draft over the weekend gave us a clue to their plans.
Stephen Holder of the St. Petersburg Times writes that the Bucs plan to use versatile third-round pick Mason Foster at middle linebacker, where Ruud plays. Holder says no decision has been made on Ruud, but taking Foster doesn’t bode well for his future. (For the record, they didn’t draft a guard.)
Tampa’s decisions elsewhere in the draft were also telling. They didn’t take a cornerback until round seven. Holder says the team is a lot more confident in Ronde Barber, E.J. Biggers and Myron Lewis than outsiders think regardless of what happen with Aqib Talib.
The Bucs reportedly weren’t likely to take Prince Amukamara if he fell one more spot to No. 20.