The NFL Draft is always a time for speculation and excitement, and the 2027 draft—set to take place in Washington, D.C.—is no exception. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the future is already sparking bold predictions. According to a recent way-too-early mock draft from CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson, the Bucs are projected to make a surprising move: moving on from quarterback Baker Mayfield and selecting Oklahoma State's Drew Mestemaker with their first-round pick.

Wilson's analysis highlights Mestemaker as a rising star with a powerful arm and the ability to make challenging downfield throws. "Mestemaker is a big-armed QB who layers the ball well on downfield throws but can also step on it when he needs to fit it in a tight window," Wilson writes. He notes that Mestemaker shows poise in the pocket and reads defenses effectively, though he'll need to cut down on interceptions—11 in 2025—that stem from poor decisions or off-balance throws. The jump from North Texas to Oklahoma State is a critical test, and if Mestemaker thrives against tougher competition, he could become a top prospect.

Mestemaker's journey is nothing short of remarkable. After not starting in high school, he burst onto the scene as a starter at North Texas, quickly becoming one of college football's most productive passers. Now at Oklahoma State, he has the chance to prove his skills on a bigger stage. For the Bucs, this projection signals a potential shift in direction, though a lot can change in 12 months. With the 2027 draft still on the horizon, Tampa Bay fans will be watching closely to see if Mestemaker becomes the next big name in their franchise's story.