There has been a lot of talk about the Buccaneers and Texas A&M running back Bijan Robinson during this process. Just a few days ago, we published a profile on him and his fit in Tampa Bay.
However, the Buccaneers would have to draught him in the first round. Is it really worth it? If Jason Licht believes it is not, he may consider drafting another running back from Texas in the later rounds. Devon Achane of Texas A&M comes in handy here.
Devon Achane’s College Career Th 5’9″, 185 lbs Achane is a junior who has started the Aggies’ last two seasons. He rushed for 910 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. He also helped the passing game by catching 24 catches for 261 yards and a touchdown.
In his senior year, he carried for 1,102 yards and eight rushing touchdowns, and his receptions increased to 36, but his passing game was less spectacular, with 196 yards and three scores.
His ability to make explosive plays when running the ball has been a recurring trend throughout his career. He had a 68-yard run in his junior year and a 65-yard run in his senior year. He also did not fumble the ball once during his career, so he is fairly dependable in that sense.
Combine Pro Day and Scouting
At the combine, Achane ran a 4.32 40-yard dash, which led all running backs that competed. He also had a 33″ vertical jump but elected not to undertake any additional drills at the combine. He elected not to do the drill at his pro day after running an excellent 40 time at the combine. Instead, he set a shuttle time of 4.36 seconds and a three-cone drill time of 7.05 seconds. He also had a 111-inch broad jump.
What Achane Could Mean For The Buccaneers in 2023
He might fill in as a reliable back to pair with Rachaad White. Achane is unlikely to be a bell cow running back, but he can add a spark to the offence. Rachaad White has evolved into a capable pass catcher out of the backfield, thus Achane would most likely see limited action on early downs.
White is a good talent with upside, and there are many things to appreciate about his game, but he lacks top-end speed. Achane may provide that to Tampa Bay’s offence. White could represent thunder, whereas Achane represents lightning.
Three-Year Prospects
If Achane improves and White becomes a free agent in three years, he might be in line to succeed Rachaad White. While that may seem far down the road, the only running backs that aren’t frequently replaced are the elite ones, and while White is a solid player, I’m not sure he has the talent to be a top 5 or 6 running back in the game.
With that, there’s a chance White could either price himself out of Tampa Bay or see his play decline. Achane would be able to fill in and get more playing time as a result of this.
Report on Stocks
Achane has a possibility to be picked on Day 2, but given the number of running backs available on Day 2, he could fall further down the draught board. The problem for Tampa is that they don’t have a 4th round pick, which would have been ideal for a player like him.
If the Buccaneers want him, they might have to bite the bullet and take him in the third round, or try to move up into the fourth. In any case, Achane might be a good value for any squad on late day two/early day three.
The Time Has Come…
Let’s hear it for it. What are your thoughts on Devon Achane’s potential fit in Tampa Bay, Bucs fans? Vote in the poll and share your thoughts in the comments!