Every year there are undrafted players that make the final 53 man roster and some go on to become really good players. I think the Bucs could have a sleeper in undrafted safety Elijah Shumate out of Notre Dame. Bucs signed Shumate shortly after the draft had concluded and they hope he can bring competition to the position. Shumate has the measurables you look for in a player with great size and good speed. Shumate is 6'0 216lbs and ran a 4.58 40 which is impressive for his size. Shumate is known for being a big hitter and is good against the run.
However, he needs work on his technique and footwork in pass coverage if he wants to become a more complete player. Inconsistency with his tackling has been an issue as well but with proper NFL coaching all of this can be corrected. Good news for Shumate is he is excellent on special teams and can make plays on kick coverage. The bad news is the competition at his position where the Bucs have returning starters in Chris Conte, Bradley Mcdougald along with reserves in Keith Tandy, and Major Wright. Plus the Bucs added Ryan Smith in the 4th round who will play the safety position so that gives the Bucs five solid safetys.
So it wont be easy for Shumate to make the squad as he will likely have to play really good to beat out one of the other five safetys. At the very least I expect Shumate to make the practice squad and could be a contributor for the 2017 season.
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