The Buccaneers snagged Miami's Scott late, adding a versatile defensive back known for explosive plays and a knack for hitting offenses hard.
Entering the final day of the NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had five picks to work with, addressing the defensive backfield with their lone fourth-round selection.
At pick No. 116, Miami's Keionte Scott was their first pick of the day, joining his collegiate teammate Rueben Bain Jr. in the Bay. Both former Hurricanes are strong value picks, as neither was expected to still be available at the spots where they were ultimately selected.
Scott posted a Second-team All-ACC season at Miami, recording 64 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and five sacks.
He added two interceptions, returning both for touchdowns. His most iconic moment came in last year's Cotton Bowl, as Scott jumped a screen route and took it the other way for six.
His touchdown gave Miami a 14-0 lead over Ohio State, ultimately leading to a 24-14 victory.
Prior to this game, Scott shined in a defensive slugfest against Texas A&M, recording ten tackles and two sacks, also forcing a fumble. Scott was all over the field, helping the Canes' defense hold the Aggies to just three points.
Entering the draft, Scott was seen as a second-third rounder, bringing six years of collegiate experience with him, including two at the junior college level.
Scott began his career at Snow College in Ephraim, Utah, earning back-to-back Junior College All-American honors.
Following his time out west, Scott made the jump to division 1, playing three years at Auburn. In 2022, Scott was also a valuable piece of the Tigers' special teams operation, serving as their primary punt returner.
On special teams, Scott excelled, ranking third in the FBS with 14.8 yards per punt return.
In 2025, Scott transferred to Miami, helping lead the Hurricanes to a National Championship berth.
Scott's speed and blitzing ability will serve him well in head coach Todd Bowles' rush-heavy scheme, as the rangy defensive back frequently found himself in opposing offenses' backfield.
There is of course, room to improve, as Scott can be a step slow in pass coverage. However, his versatility and ability as a pass-rusher projects him as a slot/nickel corner, playing closer to the line of scrimmage.
Last season, Tampa put a strong emphasis on drafting cornerbacks that excel in pass coverage, like Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish. Scott will fit in nicely next to those two sophomores, rounding out a defensive back room that is relying on a big season from Zyon McCollum, who recently signed a lucrative, 3-year, $48 million deal.
Draft Grade
A