In the 2015 NFL Draft, the most popular pick in terms of discussion among fans and media was the choice of Quarterback Jameis Winston first overall. The pick in that draft, however, that has made a welcoming surprise was 123 picks later. Middle Linebacker Kwon Alexander.

In the 2015 season, Alexander performed very well in training camp, beating out supposed starter Bruce Carter, who was a headline signing made in the 2015 offseason. During his rookie season, Alexander stuffed the stat sheet, recording three sacks (as a middle linebacker in a 4-3 defensive scheme, that is impressive due to usually playing in coverage, with the highest total of sacks from an inside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme in the league was David Harris with four and a half last season for the New York Jets), along with two forced fumbles and two interceptions, all while playing in 12 games. On top of all that, Alexander won rookie of the week twice. Even more, Alexander’s rookie season began with a switch from outside linebacker to middle linebacker, along with learning a playbook and calling plays in the huddle. All of these tid-bits of information help make it clear Alexander made a huge impact in his rookie season.

Moving onto this season, Alexander has not disappointed. He has recorded two sacks along with a pick-six against the LA Rams. Along with this, he has become more of a vocal leader.

Maybe the most important way Alexander has impacted the Buccaneers is his vocal leadership style. Various times has Alexander been called “The Jameis of the defense” due to both players being vocal leaders. On a team where there are leaders who follow under the “lead by example,” vocal leaders like Alexander are needed to get the team riled up for a game.