Kwon Alexander to Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown

The linebacker position is very important in the Cover 2 defense, so the Tampa Bay Buccaneers added some depth to that position by drafting Kwon Alexander.

Tampa Bay linebackers were first and third on the team in total tackles in 2014. The concept is for the defensive linemen to occupy the blockers, allowing the linebackers to make plays.

The Bucs already have one of the best 4-3 linebackers in the game in Lavonte David. Danny Lansanah was perhaps the most consistent linebacker for the Bucs last season, and the club picked up Bruce Carter to play middle from the Cowboys.

Alexander told the Bucs media following his selection that he would be more comfortable playing weak side but could play anywhere the team needed.

“I’m an aggressive linebacker,” Alexander told the Tampa Bay media by conference call shortly after he was selected. “I love to hit. I’m a smart linebacker; play fast. I just love to play the game.”

If history is any indication, he may get some time as a rookie. Lansanah and Dane Fletcher were the lone linebackers to play in 16 games for the team, meaning the team could always use depth at the position.

Until then, Alexander can use his skills to help on special teams.

Compared to former Bucs linebacker Dekoda Watson, Alexander ran a 4.55 40-yard dash and uses that speed to avoid blockers and pursue after runners. Watson was a key component on the Bucs’ special teams, and Alexander will likely get his start there as well.

There are a couple of possible concerns.

Alexander will have to put on some weight. At 227 pounds, he is too small to take the constant pounding for a full season in the NFL.

Also, he’s missed some time because of injuries, which carries all the way back to high school.

He does have talent, however, forgoing his senior season for the draft.

Playing as a true freshman, Alexander played in seven games and worked his way into the starting lineup before suffering a broken ankle against Florida and missing the rest of the regular season. He did return for the bowl game.

He started in 12 games his junior season and earned first-team All-SEC honors from ESPN.com and second-team ALL-SEC honors from the Associated Press.

The Tigers led the SEC in total defense and pass defense and ranked No. 2 in the conference in scoring defense.

Alexander had 90 tackles, including 7.5 for losses, forced two fumbles and 1.5 sacks. In 32 career games, Alexander compiled 156 tackles, including 15 for losses and six pass breakups. He did not record an interception during his college days.

“I thought I had a pretty good year,” he said. “I was just ready to go; just ready to go pursue my dream. I feel like I can get better up here in the NFL, learn more, and now the time is here.”

[ All quotes obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. ]