The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a strategic move in the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Clemson defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart in the fifth round. This move is an intriguing one, as it showcases the team's commitment to finding hidden gems and their faith in Capehart's potential. Personally, I think this pick is a smart one, as it adds depth and versatility to the Buccaneers' defense, which is always a good thing. What makes this particularly fascinating is the comparison to Will Gholston, a former fourth-round pick who became a stalwart for the team. Gholston's 12-season career with the Buccaneers is a testament to the team's ability to develop players and maximize their potential. Now, let's dive into the details and explore why this pick is a smart one.
A Strategic Move
The Buccaneers' decision to select Capehart in the fifth round is a strategic one. With the team already addressing edge and middle of the defense in earlier rounds, this pick allows them to add depth and versatility to their defensive line. In my opinion, this is a smart move, as it ensures that the team has options and can adapt to different situations on the field. One thing that immediately stands out is the team's faith in Capehart's athletic upside. According to Vice President Player of Personnel Mike Biehl, Capehart has impressive athletic traits, including a 4.85-second 40-yard dash and a 6-5, 313-pound frame.
A Hidden Gem
What many people don't realize is that Capehart's production numbers may not jump off the page, but his athletic traits are impressive. The scheme at Clemson may not have asked him to get up the field a lot, but the Buccaneers see potential for him to set the edge and be a run-stuffer. This is where the comparison to Gholston comes in. Gholston's 186 career games played for the Buccaneers are the most by a defensive lineman in franchise history, and his 432 tackles, 20.5 sacks, and 81 quarterback hits are impressive numbers. If Capehart can develop into a player with similar traits, it would be a significant achievement for the team.
A Versatile Player
The Buccaneers' decision to select Capehart also highlights their commitment to finding versatile players. With his athletic ability and potential as a pass-rusher, Capehart can contribute in multiple ways. This is especially important for a team like the Buccaneers, which is always looking for ways to improve its defense. If you take a step back and think about it, this pick is a testament to the team's ability to identify and develop players with unique skill sets. It also shows their willingness to take risks and invest in players with potential.
A Look Ahead
Looking ahead, the Buccaneers' selection of Capehart is a smart one. With his athletic ability and potential as a run-stuffer and pass-rusher, he can contribute in multiple ways. This is especially important for a team like the Buccaneers, which is always looking for ways to improve its defense. A detail that I find especially interesting is the team's faith in Capehart's potential. With Gholston as a comparison, the Buccaneers are betting on a player who can develop into a stalwart for the team. If Capehart can live up to the team's expectations, it would be a significant achievement for the Buccaneers and a testament to their ability to find hidden gems in the draft.
In conclusion, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' selection of DeMonte Capehart in the fifth round is a smart and strategic move. With his athletic ability and potential as a run-stuffer and pass-rusher, he can contribute in multiple ways. This is especially important for a team like the Buccaneers, which is always looking for ways to improve its defense. If Capehart can develop into a player with similar traits to Gholston, it would be a significant achievement for the team and a testament to their ability to find hidden gems in the draft.
