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2017 NFL Power Rankings: Los Angeles Rams benefit from NFL Draft

By Dan Parzych

Sep 3, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Eastern Washington Eagles wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) celebrates after a game against the against the Washington State Cougars at Martin Stadium. The Eagles won 45-42. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Eastern Washington Eagles wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) celebrates after a game against the against the Washington State Cougars at Martin Stadium. The Eagles won 45-42. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tight end O.J. Howard goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were considered one of the big winners of free agency thanks to landing one of the league’s top deep threats in DeSean Jackson, and the team didn’t stop there after adding another dangerous weapon in the NFL Draft. As if the presence of Jackson and Mike Evans wasn’t already good enough for Jameis Winston, the Buccaneers’ passing game landed one of the top tight end’s from this year’s class in O.J. Howard.

The former Alabama star is exactly what teams dream of having in a tight end since he’s not only effective as a pass-catcher, but blocking as well. To use a first-round pick on a player that can make an impact on all areas of offense was a wise move by Tampa Bay, and will make the offense even more dangerous than originally expected.

For a team that fell just shy of reaching the playoffs in 2016 after finishing with a 9-7 record, the Buccaneers were already considered one of the teams expected to make the jump in the NFC when it comes to becoming strong contenders. After a successful free agency period and draft, all signs point to Tampa Bay living up to the hype.

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