Actually, it’s not completely accurate to call the FSU-to-Tampa connection with Brooks coincidental. Brooks is still a familiar figure in Tallahassee and DeLoach definitely knows his story with the Buccaneers.
“He was around the whole season,” said the rookie. “Like you said, [he was] undersized coming in here. I feel like this is a program I could succeed in, because there’s a lot of blitzes, a lot of man coverages. That’s what I’m used to playing at Florida State. I’m here to make plays and do what I do.”
DeLoach says he got calls from six teams wanting to sign him after the draft. Fortunately, the Bucs were one of those teams because he had already scouted out the situation and thought it was a good fit for him. The Bucs’ likely starters at linebacker are Lavonte David and K.J. Britt, with the possibility of some SirVocea Dennis action, but the depth chart is mostly young behind David, who is playing on a one-year contract. Britt is also on the last year of his rookie deal.
“With all the teams that called, I definitely looked at who they had in line and how many backups they had in the room,” said DeLoach. “Then, you know, I’ve got Lavonte and K.J., so I’ve got guys I can learn from. I’m coming here to be a sponge and learn as much as possible, just try to take in what I can and just learn as much as I can. So this was the best choice for me.
“This is probably the best opportunity for [me]. You’re learning from two great guys, two vets. It was a no-brainer for me to come here.”
DeLoach weighed in at 210 pounds at the Combine but was up to 216 by Florida State’s Pro Day. He says he plans to play this season at 220 pounds and is advancing toward that goal with protein shakes and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at night. As for the goal of making the Bucs’ roster in 2024, he knows his chances probably hinge on finding a role, or multiple roles, on special teams, a part of the game in which he excelled at Florida State.
“Definitely on special teams, big on special teams,” said DeLoach. “I’m trying to get involved in any special teams I can get into. Whatever Coach has got me on the depth chart, I’m trying to make sure I put forth my best effort every day, just trying to work my way up on any special teams.”
The Buccaneers’ 2024 media guide is the first one that will include a bio of Kalen DeLoach. The Bucs still group their draft pick bios together in a separate section after the…
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