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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers added some talent during the 2022 NFL Draft who should have a fantasy impact for this upcoming season. Before we dive into what impact these rookies could have on the Buccaneers in 2022, let’s look back at last season.
The Bucs avoided a humongous crisis this offseason with quarterback Tom Brady reversing his decision to retire and announcing his return to the organization for another year. The seven-time Super Bowl champion threw for over 5,000 yards and 43 touchdowns last season and threatens to be one of the first QBs selected in fantasy drafts this year even at the age of 45.
Tampa Bay will have most of its impact fantasy weapons back on offense including running back Leonard Fournette, who tested the waters of free agency before re-upping with the organization. The Bucs also added wide receiver Russell Gage to complement Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. He should get a boost in fantasy value playing alongside the two All-Pro wideouts. As of this writing, tight end Rob Gronkowski is still undecided on whether or not he’ll return.
Buccaneers 2022 Draft selections
No. 33 (via JAX): Logan Hall, DE, Houston
No. 57: Luke Goedeke, OG, Central Michigan
No. 91: Rachaad White, RB, Arizona State
No. 106 (via JAX): Cade Otton, TE, Washington
No. 133: Jake Camarda, P, Georgia
No. 157: Zyon McCollum, CB, Sam Houston State
No. 218: Ko Kieft, TE, Minnesota
No. 248: Andre Anthony, DE, LSU
Fantasy football impact
Tampa Bay waited until the end of the third round to select a running back, taking Rachaad White with the 91st overall pick. White will be competing with the likes of Giovani Bernard and Ke’Shawn Vaughn for the backup spot behind Leonard Fournette. His ability as a pass catcher will give him a boost.
The Bucs opened the fourth round by selecting tight end Cade Otton out of Washington. His production will hinge on of Rob Gronkowski returns this season, but he’s the TE of the future for the team.