:format(webP)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/tbt/I4BOTS74Q5G3FCYXYUOZI6MDZA.jpg "Bucs linebacker SirVocea Dennis, pictured at rookie minicamp, is one of five players from the team's 2023 draft class who agreed to deals on Thursday.")
TAMPA — The Bucs on Thursday signed five of their eight picks from the 2023 draft.
Reaching agreements were linebacker SirVocea Dennis, tight end Payne Durham, defensive back Josh Hayes, wide receiver Trey Palmer and outside linebacker Jose Ramirez.
The Bucs’ top three draft picks — defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, guard Cody Mauch and outside linebacker YaYa Diaby — remained unsigned.
The Bucs will need about $3 million in salary-cap space to sign those players, but there’s no reason to think the three won’t reach accords by the start of training camp.
Of the players signed Thursday, Hayes could have a big impact as a possible slot cornerback, and Palmer is expected to serve as a kick returner and deep threat at receiver. Dennis’ role could increase if linebacker Devin White continues to insist to be traded.
Kancey and Mauch are likely to emerge as starters as rookies. Diaby should provide production as a situational pass rusher.
Contact Rick Stroud at rstroud@tampabay.com. Follow @NFLSTROUD.
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