2025 NFL mock draft: Bucs make strange pick in latest 1st-round projection

We have another 2025 NFL mock draft to break down, and this early first-round projection comes from Pro Football Network , and it’s got the Tampa Bay Buccaneers making a head-scratching selection with their top pick.

This mock has the Bucs picking at No. 11 overall, and spending that pick on offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr. out of LSU.

Here’s what PFN’s Owain Jones had to say about the selection:

(Jones) is a strong, balanced, intelligent offensive tackle who operates all aspects of offensive line play at a high level. With an evident power profile, elite size at 6’6” and 322 pounds, and exceptional hand technique, he is in contention to be one of the top tackles taken in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, a noticeable lack of burst, athleticism, and flexibility may lower Jones’ ceiling.

While the LSU right tackle may not have the athletic upside of his teammate, he can claim to be more polished and refined in their current evaluations.

There’s no arguing with the assessment of Jones, who is indeed one of the top tackle prospects in next year’s class, with all the physical tools to be a quality starter at the next level.

The odd thing about this pick is believing the Bucs would spend such a high selection at a position that’s a relative strength at the moment.

Obviously, the Bucs have one of the NFL’s best offensive tackles on the left side in All-Pro Tristan Wirfs, but Luke Goedeke also made huge strides last season as a full-time starter, and was quietly one of the best right tackles in the league.

It may not be common knowledge across every outlet, but unless Goedeke has some serious regression in 2024, it’s highly doubtful that Tampa Bay would be spending their top pick in next year’s draft on his replacement.

You can see Jones’ full first-round mock draft at Pro Football Network here .

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