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Buccaneers' Fifth-Round Picks: From Hits to Misses

4/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected 47 fifth-round picks since 1976.
Steve Wilson and Ian Beckles, offensive linemen, had lengthy NFL careers, with Wilson starting 104 games.
Santana Dotson had ten sacks as a rookie.
Six fifth-round picks did not play in the NFL, including Mishael Kelson and Kenny Bell.
Elijah Roberts, the Buccaneers' most recent fifth-round pick, made an impact as a rookie in 2025.

History

Historical Context

The NFL Draft, established in 1936, underwent significant changes in 1976 when it introduced a structured selection process, lasting 17 rounds. This year marked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' first draft, where they selected Lee Roy Selmon first overall. Since then, the Buccaneers have relied on mid-round picks, like Steve Wilson, to build competitive teams, influencing draft strategies across the league.

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Story summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected 47 fifth-round picks since 1976.
Steve Wilson and Ian Beckles, offensive linemen, had lengthy NFL careers, with Wilson starting 104 games.
Santana Dotson had ten sacks as a rookie.
Six fifth-round picks did not play in the NFL, including Mishael Kelson and Kenny Bell.
Elijah Roberts, the Buccaneers' most recent fifth-round pick, made an impact as a rookie in 2025.

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