Late Round rookie emerges as favorite for starting role

Sports Illustrated has named Buccaneers cornerback Keionte Scott as one of seven promising rookies who are on track to become starting players at the beginning of the NFL season. Scott faced competition from Jacob Parrish for a spot in the slot position, but that dynamic has shifted. Parrish has been placed on Tampa Bay's unofficial depth chart as a starter for outside cornerback, which may pave the way for Scott to assume the inside position.

Sports Illustrated labeled the No. 116 overall pick as a draft weekend gem, praising Scott's energy and football IQ as qualities that will help him seamlessly integrate into Bowles' defensive strategy. The most significant uncertainty surrounding Scott is his recovery from an ankle injury he sustained during Tampa Bay's preseason finale.

However, this injury has been deemed minor. If Scott manages to secure the nickel role, the Buccaneers would gain an exceptionally versatile player in their secondary. Scott's playing style resembles a blend of Antoine Winfield Jr. and Tykee Smith, showcasing his range, solid tackling skills, and the ability to read plays before they unfold.

His coverage ability is suitable for handling nickel responsibilities, while his physicality and instincts around the line of scrimmage allow him to contribute against the run as well. Sports Illustrated is confident that Scott has the opportunity to capitalize on this role, potentially enabling Tampa Bay to kick off the season with a young defensive back who can excel in multiple areas of Bowles' scheme.

When paired with Winfield and Smith, this type of player could provide Bowles with the ideal defensive backfield he desires. With Parrish, Scott, and Morrison developing, and returning Buccaneer Sean Murphy-Bunting learning the ropes, Bowles may have the opportunity to expand the defensive playbook to include more unique matchups, a luxury that was limited in 2024 due to injuries.

The position group that appeared to be a significant weakness during the preseason might become the deepest on the roster. This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Late Round rookie emerges as favorite for starting role.