Devin White Takes On Leadership Role
2 min read
Tampa Bay Buccaneers first-round draft pick Devin White (45) runs over pads during NFL football rookie camp Friday, May 10, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
It seems like Devin White is already living up to expectations, and the pads haven’t even been put on yet.
It’s been long known by Arians and company that White wasn’t shy on the field and had no problem being a leader. It’s showing already, and Arians couldn’t be more pleased.
“Yeah, Devin’s not shy, that’s what we like about it, and he jumped out. He knows the defense quickly for today’s installation and wasn’t bashful about calling the defense and getting everybody lined up.”
It seems like the rookies are fitting in on the defense, which is a great sign. We can expect the Buccaneers defense to be much more improved. Devin White also continues to impress his head coach, the staff, as well as his rookie teammates.
“I think all the young kids jumped out there right away and didn’t look like they had not been here and looked like they fit right in. I was really impressed with Devin’s interception. All those young guys have such good ball skills. Turnovers are something that we really preach about, and we got some today.”
In addition to impressing his rookie teammates, White has received high praise from veteran linebacker Lavonte David.
“Something about those LSU guys. All of them bring a certain type of energy, a certain type of swagger, and we’re glad to have him here. He is happy to be here. He’s more than ready to step in and contribute right away. The first day, he’s flying around and caught an interception on the second play of practice, so that’s a big positive sign. He’s happy to be here, and the first day, he is talking. For a rookie to come in and be talking like that, it’s really amazing to see, so the sky is the limit for him most definitely.”
The veteran linebacker also felt honored by the rookie looking up to him, but admitted that he too feels like a rookie again after having to learn his 5th different defensive scheme since being drafted in 2012.
“It means a lot. Obviously, I am the longest tenured guy in the room. I have been here for the longest. I feel honored, but it’s a whole new defense. I’m learning like I am a rookie again also. I and he are basically coming in at the same time. We’re going to learn together and try to turn this thing around together.”
White made waves being the first Buccaneers linebacker taken in the first round since Derrick Brooks and the first as high as #5 since Khalil Mack. Only Five linebackers have been taken in the top 5 in the last 10-years: Aaron Curry, Von Miller, Khalil Mack, Dante Fowler, and Devin White. White should continue making waves throughout training camp, and the preseason, making for one exciting player to watch.
