It is far too early to know what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will need when the 2027 NFL Draft arrives, but ESPN's latest projection already has them going back to the defensive side of the ball. ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid has the Buccaneers selecting Clemson cornerback Ashton Hampton with the 19th overall pick in his preseason 2027 mock draft. The draft order is based on ESPN's current Football Power Index projections, so Tampa Bay's 19th-place slot isn't Reid's personal prediction for where the Bucs will finish.
Cornerback would certainly be an interesting direction after Tampa Bay has already invested heavily in rebuilding its secondary. The Buccaneers used a second-round pick on Benjamin Morrison and then a third-round pick on Jacob Parrish
in the 2025 draft, but Morrison's rookie season was interrupted by injuries and inconsistency. Zyon McCollum also dealt with injuries during a disappointing 2025 campaign. Reid believes those questions could leave Tampa Bay looking for another outside corner next spring, particularly if McCollum doesn't return to his previous form.
The Clemson standout is listed at 6'2 and 205 pounds, giving him the type of size Todd Bowles has traditionally valued at outside corner. Reid specifically highlighted Hampton's physical style and ability to thrive in man coverage, traits that could make him an appealing fit in Tampa Bay's aggressive defense, which demands its corners not only be sticky in coverage but also tackle soundly and even rush the passer at times. But Morrison has an opportunity to establish himself as a long-term starter this season, while Jacob Parrish and rookie Keionte Scott give Tampa Bay additional young pieces in the secondary. McCollum's performance will also play a significant role in determining how urgently the Bucs need another corner.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: ESPN 2027 mock draft has Buccaneers adding another cornerback
