Former Seminole Linebacker and UDFA Kalen DeLoach, turning heads nationally

Needles in a Haystack

When it comes to the Buccaneer Organization being able to find talent to make them a better team on Sundays, you could say they have a knack for it. Be it through the draft, UDFA, or straight-up free agency. Jason Licht and the rest have proven to be better than average. Players like Cam Brate, Demar Dotson, Adam Humphries, Christian Izien, Markeez Watts, Shaq Barrett, and very possibly Sean Tucker. All of them besides Tucker (this season will tell) have made an impact in some way. Dotson manned the right tackle spot here for 10 seasons, and Cam Brate is 4th all-time in touchdown receptions. All of them have their stories forged on Dale Mabry.

The latest in that line could be former Nole and undrafted free agent Kalen DeLoach. DeLoach, because of his size, was probably overlooked in the 2024 NFL Draft. It remains to be seen if DeLoach can cut it at linebacker on this next level. Or whether playing safety or some sort of Hybrid in between will best suit him and the coaching staff. Having the skills to play any role at all don’t seem to be a question. He isn’t just turning local heads. The national press has picked up on it as well. Tony Catalina, from Pro Football Network, put together a list of 10 “diamond in the rough”  undrafted free agents to make the 53-man roster of their respective NFL teams out of training camp. DeLoach made that list, and this is what was said about him by Catalina and fellow PFN writer Ian Cummings:

“Historically speaking, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have always had quality linebackers. While there are still remnants of that there, Kalen DeLoach has a chance to step in and make a name for himself as things change a bit in Tampa Bay.”

“With Devin White now in Philadelphia, there is room for some youth to step up and take a role. DeLoach could be that guy, and according to Cummings, it’s not unreasonable to think it is possible in Year 1.”

“DeLoach was an incredibly productive linebacker at the college level, but his lack of size could make it difficult for him to remain at that position in the NFL. His short-area quickness and hip fluidity may limit his upside, but he flashed the coverage skills to succeed as a safety at the next level.”

Just another player to keep your eyes upon early in this 2024 season. Go Bucs!!