ESPN pointed to two Tampa Bay Buccaneers defenders as early Rookie of the Year contenders, putting immediate expectations on Rueben Bain Jr. and Keionte Scott before the season begins.
Both players land in situations where snaps are available right away. Bain enters a pass-rush group led by Yaya Diaby, with the rest of the rotation still unsettled, creating a clear path to starter-level usage. Scott steps into the slot corner role, a position that carries consistent involvement in Todd Bowles’ defense.
Bain projects as a Day 1 starter with real pass-rush volume, including inside reps in pressure packages. That role gives him the type of opportunity edge rushers need to generate Rookie of the Year production.
Scott’s path looks different, but could prove to be just as good. Slot corners are frequently targeted, creating opportunities for tackles, pass breakups, and splash plays. As a rotational defensive back with a defined role, his impact will come from volume rather than isolated matchups.
The players’ opportunity drives these projections. Tampa Bay drafted them to contribute immediately, putting both in a position to exceed typical rookie expectations.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Two Bucs defenders mentioned as contenders for Rookie of the Year
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
