Rookie Watch: Former Notre Dame Star Named Buccaneers’ Potential Breakout Player for 2025

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are primed for another playoff run, and one name is already standing out as a potential game-changer.

With a focus on shoring up their secondary, the Buccaneers invested a mid-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft on rookie cornerback Benjamin Morrison, selecting him 53rd overall.

With a revamped defense loaded with young guns, Benjamin Morrison is being eyed as a potential difference-maker for the Buccaneers in 2025, according to Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame.

“Morrison and Jacob Parrish are going to be immediate contributors if all goes well this summer,” Verderame said. “Coming out of Notre Dame, Morrison is used to playing in big games, and that experience should serve him well on a team with its eyes on a long playoff run. If Morrison proves a capable starter opposite Jamel Dean, he’ll be a huge boon for the Bucs.”

Morrison brings undeniable big-stage experience to the table, having blossomed into one of college football’s top shutdown corners during his two-year stint as a starter for Notre Dame. He dominated in both man and zone coverage, boasting elite-level numbers that showcased his versatility.

Morrison’s stats were eye-opening: per PFF, he limited quarterbacks to a 45% completion rate when targeted, snagging 9 interceptions and adding 12 pass breakups. Opposing QBs managed just a 44.1 passer rating against him, and his 90.5 coverage grade ranked among the nation’s elite

With openings in the secondary created by free agency losses, Morrison is poised to take on a major role complimenting Jamel Dean and Zyon McCollum. If his skills and instincts translate to the NFL as expected, the Bucs may have found a potential impact player who can contribute right away.