Analyst hails Keionte Scott as draft steal. This versatile corner-turned-linebacker prospect's unique skill set promises immediate impact for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In every NFL Draft, there is a late-round selection who manages to exceed expectations, becoming a major steal. Outside of Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Reuben Bain Jr., New York Giants’ Francis Mauigoa, and Los Angeles Chargers’ Akheem Mesidor, all of whom were selected in the first round, six other former Miami Hurricanes prospects will have opportunities to prove serious doubters wrong.
One of the late-round picks was the program’s former starting cornerback Keionte Scott. He’s coming off a career season in South Florida: 756 total snaps, 64 total tackles, 42 solos and 22 assists, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, seven passes defended, five passes broken up, two forced fumbles, two interceptions, both resulting in pick-sixes, playing in 14 games, including 12 starts. Scott was the 116th pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, selected in the fourth round by the Buccaneers on day three.
In a Tuesday edition of the Up and Adams Show, hosted by sports commentator Kay Adams, featuring The Athletic’s Lead NFL Draft analyst, Dane Brugler, he labeled Scott as a potential “Steal of the Draft” candidate:
“That pick-six against Ohio State or watch the Louisville [Cardinals] Tape,” Brugler said. “He had 13 tackles for loss. He’s a corner in a linebacker’s body. I think the fit concerns is why he fell in the draft, but I think coach [Todd] Bowles will find a way to utilize that play speed, especially downhill. It won’t surprise me when he ends up getting a couple of sacks because they’re going to use him as a blitzer. He’s going to show up in a lot of different ways for Tampa this year.”
Scott will turn 25 before the next NFL season begins. Despite entering the league above the average age for a rookie, it’s a similar situation to Mesidor with the Chargers; he’s likely viewed as a ready-now player with a high maturity level.
The newest member of the Buccaneers’ secondary can play in pass coverage and stop the run. Scott is projected to be a rotational piece, looking to handle different spots on the field. He measured at 5-11 ¼, 193 pounds, 31 ⅜ inch arms, and 9 ⅝ inch hands at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana. At Miami’s Pro Day, Scott ran a 4.33 40-yard dash and jumped a 44-inch vertical.
The San Diego, California, native will return to Florida, but this time at the professional level. As Scott is expected to provide an immediate impact, he will have opportunities to prove other NFL franchises wrong for passing.
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