Buccaneers Select DB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame with the 53rd Pick in the 2025 NFL Draft

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected defensive back Benjamin Morrison out of Notre Dame with the 53rd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

From top prospect to defensive stalwart, Morrison’s journey echoes his dad Darryl’s route to the NFL. Despite a 2024 season cut short by injury, Morrison’s three-year stint in South Bend – marked by 26 starts against top-tier opponents – proves he’s been battle-hardened by the best.

His skills will be especially valuable to teams that rely on man coverage, who can deploy him in the slot or on the outside. While injury concerns need to be addressed in the pre-draft process, Morrison’s tape suggests he was a potential first-round pick with top-tier cornerback potential. In today’s NFL, where versatility is key, Morrison’s ability to play multiple techniques and cover across formations makes him a promising prospect. His ball skills, route recognition, and quickness in tight spaces should serve him well at the next level, particularly in multiple coverage schemes where his adaptability can shine.

At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed his desire to acquire “ballhawks” – players with a knack for intercepting passes and creating turnovers – to strengthen the team’s defense.

In line with Coach Bowles’ vision, the Buccaneers held a meeting with Benjamin Morrison at the NFL Scouting Combine. Morrison was a highly touted defensive prospect in this year’s draft.

Via Sports Illustrated’s River Wells,

“Notre Dame CB Benjamin Morrison says he’s had a formal meeting with the Buccaneers — he says that the meeting went well and that they talked about his dad, who played with the Buccaneers in the NFL”

Wells continued,

“A correction here — Morrison is referring strictly to Todd Bowles. Benjamin’s dad Darryl played with Bowles in Washington in 1993.”

Morrison on his meeting,

“Obviously, just the opportunity to be in front of a coaching staff such as them was special. You dream of these situations. It was a cool little coincidence. I didn’t know my dad actually played with [Todd Bowles],” Morrison said. It was a good interview. I was excited for that one, understanding their needs and stuff.”

The connection between Morrison and Bowles runs deep. This is because Morrison’s father, Darryl, played safety alongside Bowles in Washington during the early 1990s. This familiar tie likely helped spark a meaningful conversation between Bowles and the younger Morrison at the combine in Indianapolis.

Real Bucs Talk: Buccaneers Draft Target Benjamin Morrison