The Tampa Bay Buccaneers approached the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear identity in mind: get tougher, faster, and more disruptive on defense while adding depth to an already potent offense. From the first round to the late-day selections, Tampa Bay emphasized physicality, versatility, and high-upside contributors who can fit seamlessly into head coach Todd Bowles’ aggressive system.
Round 1, No. 15: Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE
Tampa Bay couldn’t believe its luck when Rueben Bain Jr. was still on the board at No. 15. A powerful and explosive edge rusher, Bain fits the Buccaneers’ mold of defenders who play with relentless intensity.
He immediately joins a crowded but talented pass-rush rotation that includes offseason addition Al-Quadin Muhammad, coming off an 11-sack season with the Detroit Lions, and rising starter Yaya Diaby, who posted a career-high 7.5 sacks in 2025. Add in veterans like Anthony Nelson and promising young depth such as David Walker, and Bain steps into a system where he can contribute early without being overwhelmed.
His blend of strength and athleticism gives Tampa Bay a long-term building block off the edge.
Round 2, No. 46: Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri
The Buccaneers doubled down on defense by selecting Josiah Trotter, a downhill linebacker known for his physicality and tackling efficiency. At 6-foot-2, 237 pounds, Trotter thrives against the run and plays with a high motor.
In Bowles’ blitz-heavy scheme, Trotter’s instincts should shine. However, questions remain about his coverage ability, especially when compared to elite coverage linebackers like Alex Anzalone.
Durability is also a concern. Trotter has battled injuries early in his career, including a torn ACL in 2023 and a knee surgery at the end of the 2025 season. Still, at just 21 years old, his upside is undeniable if he can stay healthy.
Round 3, No. 84: Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State
After trading back, Tampa Bay grabbed one of the more intriguing receivers in the class in Ted Hurst. Standing 6-foot-3 and running a 4.4-second 40-yard dash, Hurst brings size and vertical speed to the offense.
While no one is replacing franchise legend Mike Evans, Hurst has the tools to carve out a role as a deep threat and contested-catch specialist. He joins a loaded receiver room featuring Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, and Tez Johnson.
His production at Georgia State—particularly his explosive plays—suggests he can make an impact in limited opportunities early on.
Round 4, No. 116: Keionte Scott, CB, Miami
With versatility and toughness in mind, Tampa Bay selected Keionte Scott, a fast and physical defensive back out of Miami Hurricanes football.
Scott’s 4.33 speed and 44-inch vertical jump highlight his elite athleticism. He’s especially effective against the run, wrapping up ball carriers and limiting yards after contact. Bowles may also utilize him as a blitzer from the slot.
However, Scott’s coverage limitations and age—he turns 25 in August—suggest he may already be close to his ceiling. Even so, he fills an immediate role in sub-packages and run support.
Round 5, No. 155: DeMonte Capehart, DL, Clemson
The Buccaneers continued to fortify their run defense with DeMonte Capehart, a massive and powerful defensive lineman from Clemson Tigers football.
At 6-foot-5, 313 pounds with long arms and violent hands, Capehart projects as a rotational piece who can plug gaps and eat blocks alongside stars like Vita Vea, Calijah Kancey, and A’Shawn Robinson.
While he had off-field issues in 2024, those charges were resolved, and the Bucs clearly believe in his ability to contribute on the field.
Round 5, No. 160: Billy Schrauth, OG, Notre Dame
Addressing offensive line depth, Tampa Bay selected Billy Schrauth, a tough, blue-collar guard from Notre Dame Fighting Irish football.
Injuries to starters Cody Mauch and Ben Bredeson exposed the Bucs’ lack of depth last season. Schrauth brings physicality as a run blocker and reliability in pass protection, making him a natural fit alongside cornerstone linemen Tristan Wirfs and Luke Goedeke.
Durability is the main concern, as he has dealt with multiple injuries, including an MCL sprain and prior ankle and foot issues.
Round 6, No. 185: Bauer Sharp, TE, LSU
With their final notable pick, the Buccaneers selected Bauer Sharp, a versatile tight end from LSU Tigers football.
At 6-foot-5, 249 pounds, Sharp offers flexibility as both an inline tight end and a gadget player—having even taken snaps at Wildcat quarterback earlier in his career. While his 4.63 speed is average, his motor and blocking ability stand out.
Sharp has worked to clean up issues with drops and penalties, showing improvement in 2025. If that progress continues, he could develop into a reliable depth option.
The Buccaneers’ 2026 draft class reflects a team committed to winning in the trenches and dictating the tone defensively. By adding edge rushers, run-stuffers, and physical linebackers, Tampa Bay is clearly leaning into Bowles’ identity.
At the same time, smart offensive depth picks ensure the roster can withstand injuries over a long season. If this class develops as expected, the Buccaneers may have quietly built one of the more impactful draft hauls of 2026—one rooted in toughness, depth, and long-term upside.
