This was the first time in three years that the Buccaneers held a first-round pick on draft day, and they indicated that they needed much defensive help. The defensive line and linebacker positions lacked depth, and the secondary was aging. Of the three premier defensive ends available, Bruce Smith had already been signed by the Buffalo Bills, who held the first overall choice, and Ray Childress was expected to be taken by the Houston Oilers, leaving University of Washington defensive end Ron Holmes as Tampa Bay's most likely selection with the eighth overall pick. Director of player personnel Jim Gruden described his as having the combination of size and speed, versatility, and a productive college career that the Buccaneers desired.