Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Bucs Trade Up In Round 2, Draft OL Cody Mauch

Originally posted on PewterReport.com | By Bailey Adams | Last updated 4/28/23

The Bucs got their second day of the 2023 NFL Draft underway by trading up two spots in the second round, jumping from No. 50 to No. 48 to select versatile North Dakota State offensive lineman Cody Mauch.

Mauch, a 6-foot-5, 302-pounder, played tackle for the Bison, but he projects as someone who will kick inside to guard at the NFL level. The Bucs have needs at both tackle and guard, so time will tell where he’ll slot in for Tampa Bay.

“A hockey player on turf” is what one NFL analyst made of Mauch’s looks. A favorite of fans and evaluators alike this draft cycle, the 24-year-old is missing his two front teeth and has long red hair, similar to Bucs center Ryan Jensen and tight end Ko Kieft. His appearance matches who he is on the turf: a tough player.

He has a unique background, having grown up on a farm in North Dakota. He walked on to North Dakota State and, after gaining weight, moved to the offensive line. Previously a tight end in high school and entering college, Mauch has plenty of athleticism and uses his quick feet to shut down edge rushers. It is easy to spot his attacking play on the field getting to the second level, which he seemingly enjoys as he bowls over anyone in his way.

The Bucs are no strangers to drafting small-school offensive linemen (Ali Marpet, Alex Cappa) and long-haired offensive linemen (Cappa) in addition to favoring red-headed gingers (Jensen, Kieft). Cody Mauch is a small-school, long-haired ginger who is a mauler in the run game. He really needs work in pass protection. He has an inconsistent punch and tends to get off balance and lunge too often.

His tenacity and effort as a blocker jumps off the tape and he fits the physical style of play the Bucs like in offensive linemen. Tampa Bay had success drafting Cappa in the third round years ago, and Mauch could be a developmental guy in the same vein.

This article first appeared on Pewter Report and was syndicated with permission.

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