The Bucks’ first pick came as a surprise, but general manager Jason Licht seemed very happy the front office had acquired their man. . After being selected, Kancey spoke on Zoom with local media about the draft.
Karija Kansi reveals how much the Bucks talked him into
Throughout the draft cycle, many were convinced the Bucks were considering an offensive tackle or edge rusher in the first round. He revealed that he wasn’t even sure about the team’s intentions throughout the draft process.
“I had a great draft process,” said Cansy. I never thought I would be the person to be called. I am very grateful for this opportunity.”
Pitt DT Karijah Kansi Photo Credit: USA Today
He was watching the NFL Draft from his hometown of Miami, Florida. He doesn’t have to travel far to meet the team.
“Watching the Draft here in Miami. I’m here with my family, and man—the reaction—everything was like, it caught us off guard. Everyone cheered loudly.” , I was just dumbfounded. I didn’t know what to say.”
Prior to Bucks’ selection, the board was filled with deals and interesting choices. To illustrate this, in the first 12 picks he had two running his back taken.
One of them was Bijan Robinson, who moved to the Falcons in 8th overall. Kansi’s selection could be seen as a counter-play, and we could see an interesting fight in the NFC South next season.
“I just want to say I was called from Tampa Bay. I’m happy to be a buccaneer.”
Not only will he headline the Bucks’ draft class, but General Manager Jason Licht will be delighted.
Bucs GM Jason Licht praises DT’s Calijah Kancey
Speaking shortly after the initial selection, Licht praised Kangxi for how he influences the team.
Bucs GM Jason Licht – Photo Credit: Matt Matera/PR
“He’s a very disruptive interior player and can actually play a little outside,” Licht says. “Our coach is known for his elite athleticism, quickness, [he’s] super intelligent, [and] Just a great competitor.
He added: We thought we had a chance to win someone. [where] In this day and age, interior pass rushers are hard to find. Hopefully we got it.
Last season, the Bucks chose another defensive lineman with the first pick at Logan Hall. While he hasn’t outright proved he’s worthy of draft stock, Licht cites what he thinks Kansi can do: a defensive lineman mastering techniques and playbooks to play comfortably and at game speed. Cansi himself has reiterated that he already wants to be ahead of the game and wants to start running using his elite athletic traits. rice field.
Bucs DT Calijah Kancey already wants to get better
Commenting on which aspects of the game he would like to improve, Cansi revealed that he would like to play consistently and fast.
“I want to be more consistent. Great footwork, great technique and being able to be in position to make that play. That’s what I have to do on every down and that’s what I’m working on. That’s it.”
Pitt DT Karijah Kansi Photo Credit: USA Today
he made lots of play The last two seasons in Pittsburgh. In terms of counting numbers, he was one of his best defensive tackles in college football. In 2021, he recorded a total of 13 tackles and 7 sacks. Already with plenty of numbers, he stepped up last season with a loss of 14.5 tackles and his 7.5 sacks. He is known for his fast plays (4.67 40 times), but he wants to learn a playbook to turn his speed into plays.
“Once I get there, that’s what I want to do at the next level. I want to learn the playbook. I want to be able to play faster than I can. I think it helps me play faster, so that’s what I’m going to put a lot of work into.
He also focuses on building relationships with coaches and players. Perhaps the most important relationship is with head coach Todd Bowles. He hopes to develop a bond with him and give his best when he plays.
“Me and coach Todd Bowles haven’t spoken much, but I’m looking forward to building a relationship. Every down, every practice, and every day, I’m going to give the 100% he deserves on the field.”
