Gholston Flashback, FA Fits, Mixon Fails Again
March 11th, 2017
It’s Gil Arcia’s Saturday column! His fifth since entering JoeBucsFan.com world headquarters.
The Buccaneers public relations staff sometimes comes around and asks us media folks to pick a player we would like to interview as they walk off the training camp practice fields practice fields.
One day, that choice for me was easy.
It was July 31, 2014, when I had one simple request. I said, “Get me Gholston.”
I wanted to talk to the then second-year defensive end out of Michigan State. I wanted to know how William Gholston handles the praise William Gholston’s coaches had given him, where his mind was.
He is a young man of a few words. A player that when you saw him on the practice fields, he was striving to become one of the best the team has had. The staff felt the same about him. He just went to work.
“I’m not trying to think about [the positive reports] like that,” Gholston told me then. “Really, I’m just trying to stay consistent. Trying to be able to play the best that I can play.
“It doesn’t matter to me [playing right end or left end]. Just being on the field, being able to play ball. That’s what I love to do.”
Two years later, Gholston was the best run defender the Buccaneers had. In 2016, he ranked 49th in the league in plays where he stuffed the running back at or behind the line of scrimmage. Next Bucs defensive lineman closest to him? Gerald McCoy, ranked 225th.
Tampa Bay started free agency off with a statement bringing Gholston back. Now he’s a money man. A deserving money man.
THEY GOT THEIR GUY(S)
The Buccaneers made a splash with the signings of wide receiver DeSean Jackson and defensive lineman Chris Baker, both from Washington. One is a #WeaponForWinston while the other is a tank for the defense.
Tampa Bay was focused on a guy for their offense to be explosive and they needed someone to help stop the run. They achieved both goals.
Already looking at 2017, the Bucs are a better team with the addition to Jackson and Baker and with the return of Gholston, three key positions on each side of the ball. But they shouldn’t stop there.
The team has done a great job under general manager Jason Licht filling the roster with players who fit their scheme and philosophy to a tee. This offseason has been no different. The same can be said for their draft process. They can get their guy there, too.
Oh by the way, that guy in the draft may be Florida State running back Dalvin Cook, who was seen at a restaurant with a “Bucs recruiter.”
A BAD HOMBRE
Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon doesn’t get it. He just doesn’t.
This week I learned of his interviews. He has put blame on his legal team and gives lazy responses when asked a question. Now, that appears to be a trend.
He has apparently done the same with appearances as evidenced here on the Dan Patrick Show this past Thursday.
Mixon has to expect questions about what he did a couple years back that was caught on video, but he sounds like he doesn’t like it at all. Sure, he has done community service hours, attends anger management courses, etc. Oh, and _now_ he’s apologetic when he first admitted he was not sorry at all.
But what about when all that ends? Where’s his head at? With all the skills in the world and with easily being one of the Top 3 backs in the draft talent-wise, it’s the brains that may cause to not be drafted.
A team very well may take a late round flier on him. But there is no way the Buccaneers can be that team.
March 11th, 2017 at 7:39 am
If we can nail a back in a late round…..
Oj has the measurables. He did everything right in college.
Graduated stayed 4 years etc.
He needs to work on his slipperiness and finding spots in zones.
Would bea lethal weapon in year 3
March 11th, 2017 at 7:48 am
3 part article… Too short homie. @Stpetebucsfan writes longer post than this. Stretch it out yo. Lol
OK so no on Mixon, I’ll let that go. But I don’t want ANY RB with the first pick. It need to be a DE for coach Smitty. Our D line must be infused with another MONSTER or two. When Smitty leaves our new DC won’t be struggling to still put a line together. Instead our next DC… Hayes, Barry can concentrate on tweaking the D scheme to their liking.
March 11th, 2017 at 7:50 am
Good article hermano
March 11th, 2017 at 7:56 am
A DE or TE with the first pick. Regardless DE needs to be addressed with picks 1 or 2. I like Charles Harris or in round 2 Jordan Willis.
March 11th, 2017 at 7:59 am
How are you going to feel when Mixon becomes a top 3 back in the pros, you really going to care how the bad hombre talks to the media? Go sip your lattes with the soccer moms of the world and talk to them and their scintillating conversations. This guy has All-pro ability, 1500 hundred yards 12+ TDs, 500+ receiving yards, that’s the kind of talent this bad hombre has, yeah your right, the Bucs don’t need that bad hombre, he doesn’t interview well!
March 11th, 2017 at 8:03 am
It is clear that nothing Joe Mixon does will be enough for those who believe he committed the ultimate sin. Interestingly enough none of this animus exists for Big Ben Rothlesberger who has done significantly worse in my eyes. Just a microcosm of our justice system and the lend=s through which this country views crime and punishment.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:04 am
Not sure why the random comment on this article regarding OJ. I guess Destin is a big fan lol
March 11th, 2017 at 8:08 am
@Guzzie… Real talk
@PR… C’mon man don’t suck up. While I love his articles, this one lacks any substance. No disrespect to you or @Gil
This was click bait… Let’s be honest.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:10 am
Ya touchdown it kinda came out.
Love kids who say all 4 and graduate.
If we can add a couple of solid players….
Next level boys
March 11th, 2017 at 8:11 am
How are you knocking a kid for the cadence of his speech pattern?
His responses don’t sound lazy to me, just sounds like that’s the way he always talks.
And I recall the Commish, Justin Palowski, talking about how this team needed some “Bad Hombre’s”
Joe Mixon is gonna bring a media fire storm to whatever team that drafts him. All the way From Draft night, through Preseason, and week 1. But in week 2, after he has his 1st big game, most people will be talking about Joe Mixon the player.
I’m gonna put it like this, Joe Mixon has the best combination of Height, weight, speed, elusiveness, vision, catching ability, and patience out of any Rb in this draft class. At 6’0 228 with 4.5 speed and 35 inch vert, he could be a day 1 impact player for any team with enough Juevo’s to draft him.
Next. Le’veon. Bell.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:12 am
lolol at the tools that feel like talent trumps piss poor disgusting character.
“Yea he beats woman but man can he run the ball, so it’s all good.”
Point he is making is the kid just isn’t learning, or showing any real remorse.
He is reaping the consequences of his actions, so how can he have the audacity to get upset when asked questions about those actions? Whether is was a few years ago or not, it is very fresh to everyone else, yet he just can’t get it through that thick skull of his.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:13 am
As long as Mixon keeps his hands to himself, and doesn’t party with great interview types like Doug Martin, nobody cares how he interviews with the media, except the media. Mixon might not be a Bucs target, which is fine, but we already passed on Adrian Peterson and Dez Bryant, both had there issues coming out of college, and the riskiest pick character wise the Bucs have ever made happens to be in the Hall of Fame, Sapp! You might of been a 17 year old choir boy type, but most people weren’t. Mixon could be a bust just like every pick, he may become a horrible adult, and that’s fine too, but the kid should get a chance, he can’t change his past, and I for one am glad he’s uncomfortable talking about the incident, I hope it haunts him for the rest of his life. I’m hoping the actions of any 17 year old doesn’t ruin their opportunity to become better adults.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:13 am
@Touchdown… He’s talking about drafting OJ Howard instead of a RB…
Some of Y’all need to last back down lol
Do you not have a player your a fan of?
Tmax bags GMC on every thread
Nos Bos jams Cook at us daily
I want a DE
March 11th, 2017 at 8:14 am
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1PkiOroeZE
I’m not gonna say it’s likely we draft him, but any team that does is gonna look like a genius. If I were a GM, I’d draft him in the 3rd and never look back.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:14 am
I’m not sucking up lol, I’m actually good friends with Gil outside of this, so there’s no need of that. Just acknowledging his hard work. You do you, I’ll do me.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:19 am
And he’s not talking about “how” the kid interviews lmao
It’s not about whether he is a good or bad interview, if you still don’t get that well, further convo is pointless.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:20 am
“This week I learned of his interviews. He has put blame on his legal team and gives lazy responses when asked a question. Now, that appears to be a trend.”
“…but he sounds like he doesn’t like it at all.”
Sounds like that’s part of what he’s talking about to me.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:25 am
@Blake_ … Ain’t no need in posting links big homie, everyone’s mind is already made up, while I want him, I know the BUCS won’t get em. All these perfect posters sit higher than thou. Lol… Big Ben accused of tape. He’s beloved though. Irvin, Sapp many others who had premeditated thoughts to bring harm to a woman are in the HOF with the transgressions happening while in the league… Bet that many of you #PERFECTposters have their jerseys… Hypocrites
March 11th, 2017 at 8:30 am
I’m all for getting Mixon in a later round. Round 5 or so.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:30 am
Tom Jones Jr……….. Relax!!!!!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 8:32 am
I’m starting to like Wyoming RB Brian Hill, not as explosive as Mixon or Cook, but for a guy that is 6’1 219, he plenty fast at 4.56, and looks to be an adequate pass catcher, much better than Martin. Marlon Mack has more speed less size, and Kareem Hunt looks like Marshawn Lynch on film with his tackle breaking ability but not much speed, anyone of these guys should be available rounds 3-5, so hope isn’t lost should we not get Cook or Mixon
March 11th, 2017 at 8:36 am
@Mike30… OK lol who you calling out. I don’t get the Tom Jones reference… School me please
March 11th, 2017 at 8:37 am
@Guzzie
Agreed sir. This Running back class is loaded. I’d be happy with a number of later round guys. I’m still hoping against hope that we can pick up Tarik Cohen in round 5 or 6.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsimHbxxFd8&t=266s
Kid is shifty as all hell. And at 4.42 he has legit speed. Could having devastating impact as a returner. And contribute to the team as a 3rd down back if Sims Injury problems persist.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:42 am
Mixion a late round flier well my sources (lol) says he been terrific during the interview process and he won’t get out of the second round!! All seriousness how in the helll can you condemn a kid for life for something he did when he was 17? Have there been any pattern of behavior since I don’t think so! I just wonder why the double standard you want the Bucs to possibly look at Johnny Train Wreck (rich white kid) yet don’t touch Joe Mixion probably a poor black kid who has probably been exposed to violence his entire life who was probably taught you don’t let know one punk you who was probably taught if someone put there hands on you you. Enter fight back and for the first time in his life he has been taught there are other ways to deal with people then hitting them it was a hired deed hay he did striking the young lady but this was a kid 17 I’m sure he has learned his lesson!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 8:45 am
It was a horrible act indeed that he did
March 11th, 2017 at 8:49 am
lol I love how people always love to bring up other people into arguments to compare like they have anything to do with the person we are discussing.
Mixon is Mixon
Ben is Ben (whom I don’t support either btw)
Sapp is Sapp
Stop weighing their ish against each other like somehow doing that lessens their individual actions.
That is so damn annoying.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:50 am
If bad interviews kill your draft prospect then you should listen to the old interviews when drug martin was always asked about the “muscle hamster” nickname!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 8:54 am
It is clear that nothing Joe Mixon does will be enough for those who believe he committed the ultimate sin.
That’s NOT clear at all. What is clear is that the kid has a bad attitude. Can it be managed by a group of professionals like Koetter and #3…probably. Why bother.
He’s not that freaking great. He’s NOT a generational player. His stats game to game were inconsistent in a conference not known for playing defense.
We have the perfect example on our team right now. Noah Spence’s transgressions were far less egregious than Mixon’s. He partied with a drug common among many people his age. He didn’t break a girls face!!! How did Noah handle that?
He took his medicine after getting the boot from OSU and went to Richmond Ky and turned in a solid year. He PAID for his own drug tests and made sure to distribute them to the proper NFL folks so they knew he had seriously reformed.
What has Mixon done? Got in the grill of some poor parking lot attendant…whined about people beotching about his going caveman on a drunken women…in short he’s shown NO remorse. IF he had he wouldn’t be getting ALL THIS HORRIBLE PUB!!!
I agree completely that Big Ben got off scott free for transgressions as bad as Mixon’s. I also concede that Big Ben is white and Mixon is black. But you don’t defend a person’s actions by comparing them to another bum who got away with something. Is a bad politician ok because he’s not as bad as Hitler?
Look at what L. Blount went through for sucker punching another football player after a game? He wasn’t drafted and bounced around until resurrecting his career with the Bucs.
I just do not get all the Mixon love? He’s a very good back…there are lots of them….he’s not in the top three…Fournette..Dalvin and McCaffery….Donta Forman had FAR more impressive stats. Somebody said he has a broken foot so I don’t know his medical condition but if he’s healthy I take him all day every day over Mixon…I take Kamara before him and I DEFINITELY take Curtis Samuels ahead of him.
Big rivalry game….Okla against Texas…Mixon 16 carries 48 yards longest run 10 yards 3.0 yd per carry average 3 passes for 12 yards NO TD’s.
Foreman 25 carries 159 yards longest run 28 yards 6.4 yard average and 2 TD’s.
Mixon was NOT consistent!
March 11th, 2017 at 8:58 am
We don’t need a DE, Akeem Ayers, William Gholston the starters. Spence, J. Smith, & Russell the backups. We’re stacked. Tight end is sorely lacking. Brate is coming off a back injury, & no other tight end can even catch a pass downfield. We need a tight end that can stretch the field. Then Brate can be exclusively red zone. Or possibly a OL
March 11th, 2017 at 8:58 am
lol Thanks Pete, put together much better than I was able to.
March 11th, 2017 at 8:59 am
if mixon falls past the 4th you don’t think we even take a chance on him? i know its a lot of baggage but with a 5th round pick there’s not much risk
March 11th, 2017 at 8:59 am
Honestly I am unsure what point is being made about Mixon here. He is an inexperienced public speaker and probably nervous because he knows everything he does is going to be analyzed. He answered all of the questions that were asked of him and it didn’t sound like to me that he tried to avoid anything.
I agree with Blake on this. If we are all being honest his talent is that of a first round RB and his skills are very similar to Cook. I would be pleased if we were able to land some combination of Cook/Mixon, Howard/Leggett, Baker/Jackson, a DT, Smith-Schuster/Jones/Samuel, Perine/Stevenson at FB
March 11th, 2017 at 9:00 am
Mercy of Grace StpeteBucsFan.
Everyone deserves to be forgiven. This young man should not serve a life long sentence just because the court of public opinion dictates such.
Every one deserves a second chance at redemption.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:04 am
StPete – amongst experts it is commonly stated that we’re it not for the video Mixon would be drafted in the first round. The reason Mixon gets more love than Foreman is because Foreman is considered a one dimensional RB whereas Mixon is not.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:10 am
Blake
You have to ask for forgiveness and then walk the walk to be forgiven.
But you miss the main thrust of my post which is not that Mixon is an nonredeemable bad person…just that he’s NOT THAT GOOD!
He’s very good…I concede that much…he would be a steal talent wise in the 3rd or later…but again this draft is loaded with lots of running backs at least two of them and maybe three or four who have potential to be great. Why bother with a head case? But more importantly….let’s go for the gusto…forget Mixon’s head problems…why not go for one of the BETTER RB’s since there are probably a half dozen available.
So Blake a question…you have a hard on against Dalvin…his shoulders etc but are you honestly suggesting that Mixon is better than Dalvin?
Is he better than Fournette? McCaffery? Donta Foreman? Kamara? Why wouldn’t we go for the very best RB we can land “reasonably”…I’m not suggesting we trade several draft picks for one.
What would even be the plan with Mixon? Wait until the 3rd and hope? The 4th? Really? We should wait until the 3rd round to address the biggest hole in our offense? What if we wait and the other backs are gone and somebody snagged Mixon just ahead of us?
March 11th, 2017 at 9:10 am
I just don’t get all the Dalvin Cook love, maybe because I’m not from Florida. D’onta Foreman would be perfect in this offense with Rodgers spelling him and Sims in on 3rd downs only. Good article though Gil, Gholston seems like a gentle giant.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:10 am
The way I read the article is he HASN’T learned his lesson from the incident, judging by his answers given to interviewers.
Spin it how you want to spin it. I read how I read. I don’t look to be automatically against a more connected to the Bucs person than I am.
Jameis was scrutinized during his interviews. He passed with flying colors. Fil’s saying. Not so much with Mixon.
Or did some of you read the article a different way cause you’re a Mixon fan? Cause that’s how I read your posts!
March 11th, 2017 at 9:11 am
GGGGGil’s saying.*
Damn it coffee kick in.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:14 am
That was my lambasting for the day. lol
March 11th, 2017 at 9:16 am
Buc1987 – go listen to the audio man. Mixon answered every single question and said all the right things. The only responses that were kind of weird was him saying he didn’t do anything special to prepare for his proday then saying he trained for two months to prepare for his pro-day.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:16 am
Exactly 87, like I said, he’s not getting at whether the kid gives a “good” interview lol
March 11th, 2017 at 9:17 am
Draft Mixon in the 3rd round
March 11th, 2017 at 9:18 am
Eric Denman – Foreman could work but he wouldn’t be the ideal RB because he is not a good receiver. He would either take the place of a better receiver or telegraph that we are going to run the ball.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:20 am
USFBUC
Actually Foreman was graded as the best blocking RB among the top backs coming out for the draft. He does bring a critical dimension to keeping #3 upright.
If Foreman is healthy he’s simply a far more consistent runner than Mixon who put up some huge yards against the little sisters of the poor….er La. Monroe…the vaunted Warhawks…263 yards against the 5-7 Texas Tech 124 against 7-6 Baylor…147 against defensive juggernaut West Virginia.
Foreman rushed for over 100 yards in EVERY game..breaking the legendary Earl Campbell’s Texas record. They are definitely different backs. Foreman would be the proverbial workhorse…perhaps Koetter prefers RB by committee…I lean that way…but if we took Foreman I wouldn’t be upset…he’s a bruising runner and he can block for #3.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:22 am
In my mind Stpete, Yes Mixon is a better prospect than Dalvin from a pure football perspective. You are conveniently leaving out that Mixon Split carries with Sameje Perine (Who is a tremendous prospect in his own right), And purely using stats as the basis of your argument.
When looking at the film, you’re looking for guys with the traits that are going to translate most effectively into the pro game. And In my mind, Dalvin got the majority of his production on big runs to the outside, running in straight ahead. And unless you play for the Dallas Cowboys, you aren’t gonna get those wide open lanes nearly as frequently. And even when you do, there are alot more sideline to sideline linebackers, and safeties that are gonna be right there to give you a smack.
With Dalvin’s history of shoulder problems, and a pretty slight frame, I don’t see his body enduring too many of those crushing blows. Lets look at the facts, Multiple Shoulder surgeries, and nagging hamstring problems…
Sound familiar? Kinda similar to the injury problems from another 1st round Rb…
And as for Joe Mixon’s traits, well, I’ll leave it to my boy here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HHVlfF3Rw8
March 11th, 2017 at 9:22 am
PRBucfan- did you listen to the interview? The interview is horrible but Mixon answered every single question. At no point did he say anything that indicates he isn’t remorseful for what happened. In fact he addresses the Unicode the several times and says how he wished he could take back everything that happened.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:23 am
*incident not Unicode, you can tell what I do for a living when my phone autocorrects to stuff like that.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:25 am
And to give you further perspective, Joe Mixon ran the same 40 as Dalvin, weighing almost 20 pounds heavier. And he had a more explosive Vertical jump, and a slightly longer Broad.
Joe Mixon has all the tools to be a dynamic playmaker at the next level.
Dalvin Cook will be a system guy at best, and his future longevity is highly suspect.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:25 am
I would love to see this kid here!!
I wonder how y’all would react if you were a17-yr-young, black man with tough background …
you try flirting with the girls at your new school – and get a bucket of race hate thrown in your face. Your manhood is insulted publicly. She calls you over to insult the color of your skin and your manhood some more. Then, the drunk coed starts slapping and scratching your face.
Most of us are men of maturity with the ability to walk away long before things went this far. We have the ego strength to laugh at the insults. Sure, it is so easy to sit here as white adults and pass down judgement upon another – it is one of the funnest aspects of the anonymous internet.
But did every single one of you have that strength of ego, have the character and the role models of how a man should behave?????????????? When you were 17.
I call BS on that!! Give the kid a break.
Been a fan since ’76. Would buy a Mixon jersey. Have never owned a jersey with a players name on it before.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:25 am
telegraph that we are going to run the ball.
BINGO!!! I’d love to telegraph we’re running the ball!!! Can you even imagine the play action magic #3 would perform in that kind of situation.
No doubt Foreman would have to come off the field in 3rd and long situations…but in 3rd and short he gives us the best chance of pounding it for a 1st…think a younger Eddie Lacy…or letting #3 fake the handoff and hit a streaking DJAX for six quick ones!
I LOVE telegraphing a run with #3 at QB…he’s a play action wizard. I think there are a couple of areas where #3 doesn’t get proper respect. He’s slow so people do not realize what an excellent runner he is…slow or not he’s incredibly effective when he runs it…and his ball handling and faking on play action is also great….telegraph away and let #3 burn them a new one!
March 11th, 2017 at 9:26 am
He , who is without SIN…… You know the rest you Hypocrites….
Give the man a FKN break!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 9:27 am
USFBUC- He would be perfect in the fact he’s gonna get 4 yards atleast a carry and will keep the safeties looking in the backfield. You know what comes next with a PA pass for a 50 yard TD to Desean
March 11th, 2017 at 9:28 am
Also, Just like Ira, and Justin, I acknowledge that fact that we don’t have to panic about getting a good running back. There will be legit 1st year starting options from rounds 1-3 of the draft, possibly even in the 4th and 5th.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:34 am
So let me get this straight. There’s a REASON why he’s going to slip. Some say it’s a good REASON. Every NFL team is going to pass on him until possibly later rounds for a REASON. Every NFL team. Not the Bucs though. We SHOULD take him. We have no REASON not to?
Is that the logic of it all?
Does all that make sense to you guys?
March 11th, 2017 at 9:35 am
@87…I’m NOT a Mixon fan… I’m a fan of the BUCS. That’s all!!!! I think he can help our team period. I want to win.
@Stpete… All we have are opinions…
My point to all this is… If there is talent AVAILABLE then get em.
I don’t look for my favorite GLADIATORS to be role models… I raise my own kids…
Guess I’m a savage then… So what… Regardless of who’s on the team we all want that trophy at the end and will GLADLY root for our champions
March 11th, 2017 at 9:38 am
StPete and Eric – I hear your point and counter with, if that is good is it not better to have a RB who can both sell the play action and catch a pass? Also, address for me why nobody is talking about Foreman in the early rounds? I will give you that if Foreman could catch the ball he would be a great prospect but he can’t and that’s why he is projected as late as a fifth round pick.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:38 am
Dalvin (5’11 213 4.48) fumbles a lot and has questionable shoulders and agility, Kamara (5’10 216 4.56) has average speed and limited production, McCaffery (5’10 202 4.48) has limited size to run between the tackles, Foreman (6’1 233) and Fournette (6′ 240 4.51) have limited pass catching abilities, that’s the top 4 RBs this year, all have holes in there game, all have exciting talent, Mixon (6’1 228 4.43) has everything, size, power, vision, speed, production, receiving, his only flaw as a prospect is his character, he’s a generational type prospect, no one can deny his on field talent
March 11th, 2017 at 9:40 am
87 – I haven’t seen anyone arguing that Mixon should be taken in the first or even the second. So the Bucs would be waiting on him just like everyone else
March 11th, 2017 at 9:41 am
How does someone forgive Mixon in the 3rd round and call him a steal when every NFL team won’t look the other way until then?
Someone explain this logic to me. If he’s a first or second round talent, but there’s that REASON he’s going to slip, why would NFL teams overlook that REASON in the 3r, 4th, or 5th. Why not overlook it in the 1st or 2nd?
I still don’t think he’s draftable, no matter what you defense lawyers are trying to say.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:42 am
Mixon is no doubt the most complete RB in this draft.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:42 am
USF…so you’re saying he’s a 3rd round talent?
March 11th, 2017 at 9:43 am
I’m not going to talk about Mixon off the field since everyone who posted before me covered it all pretty much. I just want to say this. The argument for not taking a RB in the 1st round can be applied to not drafting Joe Mixon.
The argument against RB round 1 is that it is a deep draft class and there will be starting caliber RBs in the middle rounds. So to those people, myself included, the increased value of getting a starting RB in those rounds outweighs the talent drop off between that pick and the RBs in round 1.
Now ask yourself this. Does the difference in talent between those players and Joe Mixon outweigh the risk Mixon brings? To me it does. Mixon imo isn’t worth the risk even if he is much more talented than the other RBs that he will be lumped in with. I’m rooting for him to turn it around and change his image in a positive way, just hope it isn’t in Tampa.
Hope all that makes sense lol.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:44 am
Eric Denman…but USF says he’s a 3rd round talent.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:45 am
7 more weeks ugh
March 11th, 2017 at 9:47 am
BUC1987- lol everyone knows if it wasn’t for the OTF issue he would be going in the top 5 and no later than top 10
March 11th, 2017 at 9:47 am
Yeah I’m not a fan of RB’s in the 1st either, but some say he belongs in the 3rd. So if he’s already a 3rd round grade, I see him falling hard. Will be interesting story throughout the draft. Does he get drafted and if so when?
Damn it I gotta go shopping. Be back later.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:49 am
Eric Denman…not USF apparently. He says most teams would’ve wait until the 3rd anyways. Not saying I believe the guy, just going by his post.
Alright the wife is bitching at me now. Gotta go.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:50 am
87 – I’m not even sure what you are saying any more. I’m saying that Mixon is a first round talent who will be drafted in probably the third round because of his off the field issues.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:50 am
Yo 87 the off field issue’s (read “incident) are what will make him drop into the 3rd. Gm’s are gonna be playing Chicken with eachother. But without a doubt he has 1st round talent. It wouldn’t shock me if he goes in the 2nd round.
But I think it’s more likely he falls to the 3rd, maybe even (I hope not) 4th or 5th.
It all depends on who has the Cajones to do it.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:53 am
Eric – I understand your position, you agree that Mixon is talented you would rather have another talented RB like Foreman though given Mixons issues.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:59 am
Joeypoppens…that makes complete sense, just like RBs are interchangeable for the most part and there are plenty of them available later, why bother spending a 1st, and I agree for the most part, what the issue I have concerning Mixon is the people who won’t even give him a chance to become a good adult, basically crucifying him before he’s given a chance for redemption, and to top it off, it’s mostly the God fearing, church going, good value perfect people who despise the young thug, the same people that go to their church that preaches about forgiveness every Sunday, thats what is truly despicable.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:01 am
Well…. me personally I would draft Mixon in the second round if he’s their but I don’t think Licht will do it. That leaves us drafting Cook(I hope not), McCaffrey(would love that pick) Samaje Perine, Marlon Mack, Alvin Kamara or D’onta Foreman. i just can’t wait till draft week to get here! Wish I was going to Sports Legends to hang out with my stick carriers but I have other priorities and it’s a long haul from Texas.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:01 am
Blake – I agree all of these GMs with the exception of a few are all secretly hoping they land Mixon in the third or fourth round. I think there could be a RB needy team that decides to trade back into the bottom of the second to take Mixon. I think the Browns with all of their draft picks could be a real potential landing spot for Mixon. They have the picks to move back into the second again or take him at the top of third round.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:06 am
Blake- couple of things here. You are simply incorrect about Dalvin. He’s strong inside the tackles and outside. Great vision and great receiver out of the back field. St Pete is correct in that Mixon has been inconsistent even while playing in a conference with pisspoor defense. He is simply not worth the amount of conversation about him.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:07 am
Who takes Mixon is going to be the most talked about part of this draft, kinda like moving up to draft a kicker in the 2nd round, it’s gonna be very interesting at the very least
March 11th, 2017 at 10:08 am
I was hinting at those Facebook pics of Dalvin and Bucs personnel yesterday. The dinner had to be delightful. Ima let y’all continue squabbling over a guy he ain’t even get drafted. Me ima continue focusing on how dynamic my offense about to be with ME Djax on the outside Fameis under center and Dalvin in the backfield. That spells superbowl win.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:08 am
Something tells me the patriots will draft mixon and the media and fans will fully support them. They’ll all say, ” Belichick is the best coach for him and the locker room will keep him in line.”
March 11th, 2017 at 10:10 am
Oh and cook is still overrated. Not a good inside runner. It is his biggest weakness, he doesnt have the leg drive to push a pile and fight for every yard.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:14 am
Players with off field issues usually dropped to the 4th round years ago, but teams are getting more and more desperate for talent. I think the second round is where he goes. Possibly with the browns second round pick they got from the texans.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:16 am
GM Buccaneer Princess. I look forward to seeing your name change homie. Or homet.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:17 am
Bucs signed JJ Wilcox
March 11th, 2017 at 10:26 am
Post the link NosBos, I wanna see who he had dinner with. Cause if it was just Jameis that don’t mean a whole lot. They are friends. They went to college together.
Doesn’t guarantee him coming to tampa.
And JabooBuc, agree to disagree bro.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:53 am
It was a pic Blake and Gil just stated in his article who it was with bro.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:54 am
Fameis was not present.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:04 am
That is interesting news NosBos they wouldn’t be wasting time to interview him if they weren’t serious about drafting him. I looked and looked for the pictures you referenced yesterday.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:06 am
It’s also interesting that it seems like they met with Cook on the DL. Hopefully some waitress didn’t put the teams potential plans.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:11 am
What Mixon did was horrible, and will affect the way everyone judges his character. I’m all for someone getting a second chance. Would we all be applauding Tyreek Hills game if we saw a video of HIS incident, which is probably worse? The video of Mixon is what makes it “real” in our minds. If the Bucs don’t draft him, I won’t be rooting for him. If they do, you better believe I’ll be there screaming for him to score. I’ve never hit a woman, but I did some stupid, illegal things when I was younger that I realized I can’t do as I matured. I would hate to be judged by the worst things I have done in my life, especially when I know I’m not “that guy” anymore. The important question is, is this who Mixon is, or does he really regret what he did and knows he will never do it again? Time will tell.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:13 am
With the signing of Wilcox we addressed the positions we needed to in FA. I would have liked to see us upgrade at S but not getting worse at the position is still a good move. If Licht follows the bridge type plan we will be drafting a DT, S, WR, and RB. Then based on meetings we are also drafting a TE and OLB.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:14 am
Well said Eric
March 11th, 2017 at 11:16 am
Hardly addressed, the dude lost his starting spot last season.
Other than being a hard hitter he tends to both get burned and whiff on tackles. They called him JJ Whiffcox in Dallas.
I see them drafting to shore up the position.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:24 am
Here’s a question have we never seen a player be so so in one organization then go to another an excel??? So many experts on talent here at jbf yo. USF I don’t do Facebook so I can’t begin to tell you where to look for it. My partner showed me the pic on his phone.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:26 am
Nole, The REAL question I want answered is, if we cut Griffin, who is going to be Hump and Brates new roommate? 😛
March 11th, 2017 at 11:26 am
Sure we have, nothing to suggest he will though.
And these here boards exist to give our opinions on everything Buc related, so don’t act like you have never done it either lol.
Your as much of an “expert wannabe” as the rest of us ahaha.
March 11th, 2017 at 11:37 am
Guzzie….Foreman is not 6-1 228 he’s 6-1 249!! He’s a beast. Again he can block.
Blake…I took a look at the link for as long as I could stand it…the guy “narrating” that piece was AWFUL and talked just to hear himself talk…I had to wait forever to see any action and so what did I see. A run against Texas Tech where you could have literally…and I mean literally as in a Dodge Ram or Ford 250 through that hole against sorry Texas Tech.
Then the next clip against might TT Mixon is supposed to block and the defender just bull rushed him right into the QB!!! That lame arse narrator said…but he could learn that in the NFL. Right!!! Nobody bulldozed 250 lb Foreman into the QB…he’s a man beast again like Lacy or Marshawn Lynch and he likes to block.
As for using stats…are you kidding me…I used production stats and then despite decrying using stats you come right back with stats on their size.
Again..considering the competition I’m just not that wowed by Mixon…sorry.
Meanwhile Dalvin got his under the largest lights in the biggest games. McCaffery should have been the Heisman trophy winner two years ago…he got jobbed because he plays on the west coast and he’s smaller than Henry and Henry got the Bama bias.
I simply believe there are at least four maybe five backs better than Mixon and they proved it in BIG games against teams with great D’s…except perhaps McCaffery…I’m not a fan of west coast defense. But Dalvin…Kamara and others did it against good teams and Foreman did it against EVERYBODY!!!
I do not care squat about Mixon’s screw up…other than all things being equal then you pass on him.
87 posted irrefutable logic! If the rest of the league is passing on him for a REASON….that REASON does not exist for the Bucs? I could see taking a flier or a chance IF we didn’t absolutely have to get a top notch RB to complete an offense that could become the best in the league!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 11:49 am
@Nosbos who are you referring to when you say that someone was so-so?
March 11th, 2017 at 11:56 am
If he is there is the 7th why wouldnt you? Elite talent and a crap person. Know of several of those throughout sports. And what’s the worst Thing that happens. You cut a 7th round pick. Boo hoo
March 11th, 2017 at 12:00 pm
1st O.J. Howard TE
2nd Joe Mixon RB
Like Christian McCaffrey would be great punt and kick off returner. Not sure will be around for second round.
March 11th, 2017 at 12:03 pm
Mixon will be a bust. Not due to a lack of talent but due to very poor character. Just say no to Mixon. Of course I realize there are a number of Mixon lovers on here who are probably going to get there feathers ruffled by this post.
March 11th, 2017 at 12:13 pm
“Character” wasn’t exactly a strong point for Lawrence Taylor either … how’d he work out for the Giants?
I still maintain that drafting Mixon in the 3rd round or later would represent far more value than taking any other back in the 1st round … though I won’t be upset one bit if we get one of “the big 3”, that is: Fournette, Cook or Christian Mac!
March 11th, 2017 at 12:34 pm
April draft day cant get here soon enough. 🙂
March 11th, 2017 at 12:36 pm
Oh you about to get one alright NFL. Just wait on it my friend.
March 11th, 2017 at 12:40 pm
Lol stpete so you watched to plays and turned it off? Anyway, But yeah I think even you should realize that there’s a difference between comparing a players build and traits vs. comparing a players numbers.
March 11th, 2017 at 12:49 pm
*two* plays
March 11th, 2017 at 1:10 pm
NOSBOS … I hope you’re right my man … I wish the draft was tomorrow!!!
March 11th, 2017 at 1:10 pm
If the bucs want to continue the trend of being a losing team – they will select a RB in the first round – something that hasn’t panned out for a winning Super Bowl team in longer than I care to research at this exact moment.
If the Bucs want to be a winning team they will take advantage of a market inefficiency and draft a first round talent like Mixon in the 4th. If he doesn’t pan out -they are only wasting a 4th round pick, something they deem so worthless anyway that they use them to trade up and draft kickers.
If it does pan out -the Bucs have landed the next L. Bell and D. Johnson at RB. Yes – that is the guys he’s being compared to by such experts as those at PFF and other outlets.
Stop with the choir boy, only draft leaders BS. The Bucs have been doing that for a decade and haven’t won a playoff game since the Super Bowl in early 2003.
Mixon is the guy I would really visit, interview, and take a chance on.
Let the other fools take a RB in the first round while the Bucs get a WR or DB or DL – a premium position worth the first round grade.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:12 pm
StPete – my position on Mixon and his talent is based on what NFL experts are saying about Mixon. I don’t see how you are coming to the conclusion that Mixon isn’t one of the top RBs in this draft. Where are you reading this about Mixon? I am interested because even commentary on the NFL Network is saying he is one of the top RBs talent wise and he would be a first round pick if not for the video.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:25 pm
Overall Mixon would be the #2 back in this class if he didn’t have issues
March 11th, 2017 at 1:42 pm
Continue a losing trend by drafting one of the best players entering the draft at a spot we clearly need more talent. Wow. This logic is beyond disbelief.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:44 pm
Mixon will be available. After the draft cause he surely not getting drafted by anyone.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:45 pm
^Says you.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:45 pm
When y’all can show us some evidence of a recruiter meeting the kid then you saying something. Until then y’all Ace ventura talking out ya @$$.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:46 pm
McCaffrey and Mixon will be better than Cook in the pros.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:47 pm
kinda like pictures your friend showed you on Fb right? smdh
March 11th, 2017 at 1:47 pm
And you know I believe it Blake but thats not our bet. Our bet is you say he’ll go somewhere in the first 3 rds. Hogwash.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:49 pm
Well no one here knew anything about that right. Gil just confirmed what I said yesyerday right bro.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:51 pm
McCaffery will be in the league 5 years tops if he doesn’t go to a program suited for a hybrid player. Mix is Cj spiller 2.0. Gotta run between the tackles in the nfl bro. So I’ll give him about 5 years tops as well.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:53 pm
As for oj howard,tell me why Koetter would change his scheme to suit a rookie TE after having signed Djax and ME developing into one the leagues elite WR???
March 11th, 2017 at 1:54 pm
lol ok didnt see that link. But you are dead wrong about both. Christian Mac is gonna be a force for years. Mixon has all the tools to be the next le’veon bell. Nothing like CJ spiller. And he has shown me more in between the tackles running than any cook tape i’ve watched.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:54 pm
Gil, you sure are generating a lot of comments. Kudos.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:55 pm
I think they were eating lobster and steak. People eat good boi.
March 11th, 2017 at 1:58 pm
McCaffery is not strong enough to last in the league bro. R. Bush had more strength than him and you saw his production level. This whole mix compared to Bell is puzzling. Where does it come from??? See I told you Dalvin is Faulk like you didn’t like that one so I chose Jamaal Charles and thusly began seeing the same comparison being made by people on my tv screen.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:00 pm
When she says “Bucs recruiter” does that mean a scout?
March 11th, 2017 at 2:00 pm
The more I think about it tho they might’ve been eating alligator suflet’.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:01 pm
Ask him Pop.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:05 pm
ask who?
March 11th, 2017 at 2:05 pm
You sprinkle a little hot sauce on ya gator meat and man that’s some good eatin.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:06 pm
Gil,
March 11th, 2017 at 2:06 pm
What’s hilarious to me is that I know you aren’t talking about Christian’s strength due to watching his tape. But strictly because of a meaningless bench press drill.
Get real man.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:11 pm
And hey guess what, The Bucs have met with O.J. Howard as well.
Maybe they’re looking at Dalvin as a possible second rounder.
March 11th, 2017 at 2:12 pm
I read the replies to that pic on twitter. A lot of people upset he wore sweat pants lmao. There is always something to nitpick I guess
March 11th, 2017 at 2:14 pm
I got my popcorn ready! 🍿
March 11th, 2017 at 3:15 pm
People will always find something to b@$! and complain about man.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:19 pm
Blake out of your three if I couldn’t have Dalvin I actually would prefer Howard. McCaffery is too slight to handle the contact in the nfl long term. He is hybrid not totally RB not totally WR. If I were in his camp I would be telling nfl heads I want to try WR like his dad did. This is not the pac whatever it was. No-one is elusive enough to dodge all that contact all the time bro. Watch good highlights. He’s zig zagging thru everything. You cannot count on him being able to do that in the league. Ask Reggie Bush bro.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:21 pm
It was a dinner not a date. I would think showing up as comfortable as possible would be the norm.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:23 pm
And don’t give me Dalvin did the same Jenna Laine gave you his after contact numbers the other night bro.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:29 pm
OK. There you go with you’re bogus conference based argument. He doesn’t zig zag dude, I don’t know what you’re talking about. He’s running to the open spaces in the defense.
And here’s a paraphrased quote from Mayock on small school guys. “People will try to knock Corey Davis because he played at a small market school. To those people I say, Are you kidding me? Some great players have come out of the MAC.”
Just in the same way great players have come out of the pac 12. Christian McCaffrey has a bigger frame, is more elusive, has more agility, is faster, and is more athletic, and a better pass catcher than Dalvin Cook. These are the facts of the matter.
You’ve said before that you think a dual threat guy would fit Koetters offense the best. And Christian Mac is the best dual threat Runner in the draft.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:32 pm
Google Dalvin Cook plus character issues and see what comes back. Mistreating animals, mistreating a woman. Sound familiar? It’s the best of Joe Mixon and Michael Vick. But… no film. So apparently it didn’t happen.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:35 pm
Just Playing devil’s advocate here. Unless I didn’t see it, I’m surprised no one has mentioned Cook’s issues.
March 11th, 2017 at 3:41 pm
Btw Donta Foreman had over 1000 yards after contact.
And For some reason I can’t find CMac’s 2016 Yards after contact total. I can tell you that he had 170 yards after contact in one game against Cal. And that he forced 43 missed tackles as a runner, and 21 as a pass catcher. So obviously he can make defenders miss and run through contact.
March 11th, 2017 at 4:53 pm
But foreman isn’t the pass catcher Dalvin is. You’d seen the numbers.
March 11th, 2017 at 4:54 pm
So why are they having dinner sessions with him 007??? Maybe they trying to get an explanation???
March 11th, 2017 at 4:57 pm
I like a lot of these backs, but my favorite is Kareem Hunt. If we don’t take a RB in the first 2 rounds, I hope we can land Hunt in the 3rd. I love his balance and shiftiness.
March 11th, 2017 at 5:02 pm
NOS, you could very well be right. I’m just saying if no video existed in the Mixon case there would be a very legitimate argument over who we wanted most. Especially given their respective baggage. Minus the video of course.
March 11th, 2017 at 5:17 pm
Does it really matter if you can catch if you can just rush for 2k yards in a college season, and you can pass protect, you’re still a 3 down back. And don’t give me “defenses will know you’re gonna run” crap. Because in Koetters offense, it’s a good thing when the defense thinks they know you’re gonna run.
It’s called play action bruh. One clean fake = Mikey/ Djax/ Cam/ O.J.? down the field for 20 plus yards.
March 11th, 2017 at 5:24 pm
@Nosbos
I think that is exactly what it was. Getting to know Dalvin Cook the person rather than Dalvin Cook the player. Dalvin Cook the player is on tape that they can watch anytime. It is a smart move and it probably wont be the last time this happens with him.
March 11th, 2017 at 9:25 pm
Blake play action doesn’t work without a running game. So we need a back that can take it to the house on any play. That’s Cook!
March 11th, 2017 at 10:13 pm
Blake_bucsfan Says:
“And hey guess what, The Bucs have met with O.J. Howard as well.”
“Maybe they’re looking at Dalvin as a possible second rounder.”
LOL I’ve been pondering that for awhile now too. All you posters need to get out of my head. Maybe trade back into the 1st to get Cook late. NOS is gonna get pissed at that.lol Sorry dude. I think all kinds of crazy thoughts with Cook from him going high to Cook dropping, to idk what’s next..
They may pass on Cook if he drops…then again NOS is telling different..so.
March 11th, 2017 at 10:28 pm
StPete…true cons think very logical and very practical. Tactical even. lol
YW btw. It really doesn’t matter to me with where Mixon goes. Like I said I’m a win at all costs type of fan. YOU of all people know this. Yet if every team is passing on him for that “reason” 🙂 and reports are coming out that the interviews are for shyte. I don’t want us taking him at all. I already went over all of this, when we were talking about Mixon a month ago in here.
Peeps don’t need to blast me about win at all costs. That’s me. I was taking the incoming for awhile there though. What did I ever do to ANYBODY? lol
March 11th, 2017 at 10:45 pm
87, I’m with you. If we don’t draft him I won’t follow his carrer. If we do, I hope he turn his life around and he scores on every run. I’m good with whoever we draft, as long as they’re good. We all have our favorites pre draft, but that don’t mean we’re right. Go Bucs!
March 12th, 2017 at 5:54 am
Mixon in Rd 4 would be a steal! Just think about Tyreek Hill – would anyone mind him seeing in pewter and red???
March 12th, 2017 at 7:45 am
Heres what I think about Mixon….he still has a lot of growing up to do. IMO the maturity should already be there. Now he could maybe get drafted wherever and be thankful and it hits he has to be a better man and he becomes a great teammate and player…..or he could be stupid, never mature and end up a jail bird, especially if he gets his hands on quite a bit of cash.
I’d rather stay away from him. Let him be somebody else’s rescue project. I think he will go undrafted and hopefully that will serve as enough of a wake up call for him to get his attitude adjusted. JMHO
March 12th, 2017 at 9:21 am
MadMax, Mixon will definitely be drafted.
March 12th, 2017 at 9:43 am
If it makes him a better man, I hope he does get drafted Eric. Drug and drunkenness issues, and unfounded sexual assault issues are a lot different from throwing a hay maker (breaking facial bones) on a much smaller woman that couldve been pushed away (and it was caught on video). And he will forever be heckled by people because of it. Thats sme ish a lot of teams do not want to contend with. If he does get drafted, it’ll be by someone like the Browns.
March 12th, 2017 at 9:44 am
*some ish