Just about everyone expected running back to be the targeted position group for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second-round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Instead, they went safety, and selected the first of what would become two Minnesota Golden Gophers selected in Antoine Winfield Jr.
Immediately, NFL pedigree, Power-5 Conference experience, and versatility all helped catipult Winfield’s fan-stock through the roof. Before he ever strapped on pads for the Bucs, there were projections he’d be a starter on one of the fastest rising defenses in the league.
No pre-season games figured to hamper his chances though.