NFL Mock Draft 2016: Tennessee throws a curve ball

48. <p>If you have been following my thoughts in this space throughout the draft process, it is pretty clear that I am not in love with Vernon Hargreaves III. However, the Bucs (still) have a desperate need at the cornerback position after the first few weeks of free agency, and whispers persist that link Tampa Bay to the former Florida standout.</p> <p>Hargreaves III has been referenced as the best pure cover player in this entire draft class, and that makes him immediately appealing. Tampa Bay has some quality along the defensive front in the form of Gerald McCoy, and while adding a pass-rusher would be nice here (especially if someone like DeForest Buckner fell to this spot), picking up a player that projects as an elite cover man would help to assuage doubts about this defense as a whole.</p> <p>Personally, I am partial to Ohio State CB Eli Apple or even Clemson CB Mackensie Alexander ahead of Hargreaves III, but the consensus is in the other direction. Last but not least, it can never be overlooked that Hargreaves III is a local product when it comes to Tampa Bay, and they will have a very close eye on him throughout the process.</p>. CB. Florida. Vernon Hargreaves III. 9. player