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Anthony Nelson

Anthony Nelson Player Profile

Summary

Anthony Nelson was selected in the 4th round (107th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Pro Football Archives He played college football at Iowa, where he developed into a strong edge rusher. Nelson has since become a valuable rotational linebacker/outside rusher for Tampa Bay, recording 21.5 sacks over his career as of the 2025 season. NFL.com He was part of the Super Bowl LV–winning Buccaneers squad. He recently re‑signed with the Bucs on a two-year deal, showing the team’s continued trust in his role. Bucs Nation Known for his extraordinary height (6′7″), length, and frame, Nelson pairs physical traits with a high motor and strong character, making him a dependable rotational pass rusher and run defender. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Strengths

  • Exceptional Length / Frame: At 6′7″ and ~271 lbs, Nelson has rare reach that helps him disengage and maintain leverage. ESPN.com

  • Pass-Rush Upside: He has accumulated 21.5 career sacks, showing he can get after the QB. NFL.com

  • Run-Defense Capability: Nelson is not just a pass rusher; he shows physicality in run defense, setting the edge when needed. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

  • High Motor: Plays with effort and consistency; known for pursuing plays and making effort tackles. Pro Football Archives

  • Durability & Availability: Across multiple seasons, Nelson has been a reliable rotational piece. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

  • Big-Play Potential: He’s made impact plays (sacks, forced fumbles) and has even scored a defensive touchdown. SI

  • Team Fit / Stability: His re-signing by Tampa Bay on a multi-year deal indicates he’s viewed as a trusted member of the defense. Bucs Nation

Weaknesses

  • Limited Flexibility: At his size, he may struggle to bend around very smooth edge blockers or mirror in space.

  • Power Strength: While long and athletic, he sometimes lacks the pure bull-rush strength to dominate larger offensive tackles.

  • Technique Refinement: Needs continued development in counter moves and hand usage to become more consistent as a pass rusher.

  • Coverage Limitations: As an edge rusher / linebacker hybrid, he may not be as effective in deep coverage or in traditional linebacker coverage roles.

  • Tackling Detail: While physical, his tackling technique can be inconsistent, especially in high-traffic situations.

  • Ceiling as a Pure Pass Rusher: He’s valuable as a rotational rusher, but may not develop into a top-10 edge given his role and physical profile.

Fit & Outlook

  • Fit: Nelson is a strong rotational piece in a defense that values versatility on the edge. His size and length make him ideal for a front that asks for both edge pressure and run-setting from a linebacker/OLB hybrid. In a Tampa Bay scheme (or similar), he fits perfectly as a complement to more athletic, speed-based pass rushers — someone who can anchor a gap, counter, and use his reach to disrupt. He’s also well-suited for sub-packages (passing downs) where his pass-rush ability and effort can shine without the need to play every snap.

  • Outlook: Nelson’s outlook is that of a trusted veteran rotational rusher with a high floor. He may not be a breakout star, but he can remain a key contributor for several years, especially if he maintains health and continues to refine technique. His re-signing on a multi-year deal suggests the Bucs (or any team) see him as more than just depth — he’s part of their defensive foundation. With incremental improvements, he could become a 6–8 sack player in his role, while also offering meaningful run support. His character, motor, and physical traits give him staying power, and he should continue to be a reliable contributor in big-game and rotational situations.