Once heralded as a potential first round pick only to be kicked out of Ohio State University, Noah Spence’s draft stock fell, and that allowed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to select him with the thirty-ninth pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. It is without a doubt that he has made a gigantic impact on the Buccaneers’ defense.

The plan since drafting Spence in the second round was to use him primarily on passing downs, as he was considered to struggle against the run. This plan changed, however, as a bunch of injuries during the begging portion of the season forced Spence to play as an every down player. Not only that, Spence chose to wear a brace on his arm instead of missing the entire season, so to play well while hurt is another stunning accomplishment.

Defensive Coordinator Mike Smith has consistently said how the key to his style of defense is turnovers. Spence has caused plenty of those, forcing three fumbles, again, while playing hurt.

Smith has also stated how putting pressure on the opposing quarterback is key to success. Guess what, Spence has done that as well. Spence has recorded five and a half sacks so far this season. No Buccaneer has reached double digit sacks since 2005 when Simeon Rice accomplished this feat, and if Spence stays healthy and continues to receive an increase in playing time, it’s not totally out of the picture to believe that Spence may break the streak.

Another way Spence has impacted the defense is his just being on the field. His presence, along with Robert Ayers or William Gholston, allows for Defensive Tackle Gerald McCoy to free up from a double team and create havoc on the opposing quarterback. This lack of presence may also be why McCoy hasn’t reached double digit sacks, as he has been doubled teamed due to no help from the defensive line until Spence came along this year and provide opposing offensive coordinators another defender along the line to think about besides McCoy.