2018 NFL Mock Draft: Final projection on draft day

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Derwin James, S, Florida State

This seems almost too easy for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While they aren’t a roster without several holes throughout it, their defense has been severely lacking in recent years and is a big reason why they failed to meet high expectations last season. They need an alpha-dog on the defense that has the ability to affect the game every single snap that he’s on the field, and Derwin James fits that bill.

While safety isn’t necessarily a hugely important position in the eyes of most as it pertains to team-building, James isn’t the prototypical safety. He’s a rare player that can line up at either spot on the back end and make an impact. He has strong traits with his speed and ability to stifle the run, but also can be elite in coverage with his athleticism and instincts. James could be a large step in Tampa turning the defense around.

8. Chicago Bears: Quenton Nelson, OG, Notre Dame

Speaking of easy picks, this is another one that everyone seems to be in agreement upon being the likely selection at No. 8 — a rarity in the 2018 NFL Draft. The Chicago Bears released Josh Sitton and are clearly looking to upgrade the offensive line. What’s more, they traded up to No. 2 last year to nab Mitchell Trubisky at quarterback, and they need to be sure that they are doing all they can to protect their substantial investment.

Quenton Nelson would help them do that. Along with Barkley, the Notre Dame offensive guard is a top overall prospect in this class and, if he played at tackle instead of guard, he’d be a no-doubt top-five pick. Still, he comes to Chicago at No. 8 and they’ll be thrilled if he does. He’s an absolute mauler with the skills to be a Pro Bowl caliber guard right out of the gate and for years to come in the Windy City.