Wow, what an exciting day! The 2023 NFL Draft Round 3 just took place and I can’t wait to share the big news. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made their pick and they have selected linebacker YaYa Diaby. This talented player is a force to be reckoned with on the field, with his impressive speed and tackling abilities. I have no doubt that he will make a huge impact on the Bucs’ defense in the upcoming season. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting draft pick!
Overview
The 2023 NFL Draft saw the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select linebacker YaYa Diaby in the third round, a promising defensive prospect who will bring a lot of value to the team. He is a player with incredible athleticism, great instincts, and a high football IQ. The Buccaneers have been looking to upgrade their defense, and they have found a solid player in YaYa Diaby.
Background and College Career
Diaby played his college football at Illinois, where he was a standout player for the Fighting Illini. He was a captain for the team during his senior year and was one of the key pieces of their defense. In 2022, he had a phenomenal year where he recorded 82 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles.
His performance in his senior year caught the eye of several NFL teams, including the Buccaneers. They were impressed with his ability to make plays all over the field, his athleticism, and his leadership skills. Diaby was projected to be a mid-round pick in the draft, and the Buccaneers were thrilled to be able to select him in the third round.
Physical Attributes
Diaby has a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism that makes him a force to be reckoned with on the football field. He stands at 6’3 and weighs 245 pounds. His size and strength allow him to overpower blockers and get to the quarterback. His speed and agility also allow him to cover a lot of ground and make plays in the open field.
He ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash at his pro day, which is a remarkable time for a player of his size. He also had a 39-inch vertical jump, which is an impressive feat that showcases his explosiveness and athleticism.
Playing Style
Diaby is a physical, hard-hitting linebacker who can make plays all over the field. His playing style is similar to that of former Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David, who was a key piece of their defense for many years. He has the ability to rush the passer, stop the run, and drop back into coverage, making him a versatile player for the Buccaneers.
One of his best attributes is his ability to read and react to offensive plays quickly. He has a great football IQ and can diagnose plays before they happen, allowing him to make quick decisions and get to the ball carrier. He also has excellent tackling technique, which allows him to bring down ball carriers with ease.
Projected Impact with the Buccaneers
The Buccaneers have been looking to improve their defense, and they have found a great player in YaYa Diaby. He will provide them with the physicality and athleticism they need to compete at a high level. He has the potential to become a key piece of their defense and contribute right away.
He will likely start as a rotational player behind Lavonte David and Devin White, two of the best linebackers in the league. However, he has the potential to earn more playing time as the season goes on. His versatility and ability to play multiple positions will also be an asset to the team.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Buccaneers made a great pick in selecting YaYa Diaby in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He has all of the physical and mental tools necessary to become a great player in the league. With his athleticism, versatility, and ability to make plays, he has the potential to be a key piece of the Buccaneers’ defense for years to come.
The Buccaneers have already proven to be a dominant team in the NFL, and the addition of YaYa Diaby will only make them stronger. With his work ethic and determination, he will fit in well with the team’s culture and contribute to their success both on and off the field. It will be exciting to see what the future holds for YaYa Diaby and the Buccaneers.
