The Tampa Bay Buccaneers invested heavily in rebuilding their defense this offseason, but one of their later draft picks may be flying under the radar.
In an article highlighting overlooked rookies from the 2026 NFL Draft, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox identified fourth-round cornerback Keionte Scott as a player who could make a bigger impact than many expect during his first season in Tampa Bay.
Knox noted that most of the attention has understandably gone to first-round edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. as the Buccaneers attempt to improve a pass defense that finished 27th overall and ranked 26th in net yards allowed per pass attempt last season. However, Scott’s combination of speed, versatility, and physicality gives him a legitimate opportunity to carve out a role early.
The former Miami defensive back ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash and brings experience playing both outside corner and nickel. Knox also referenced pre-draft scouting from Bleacher Report’s Daniel Harms, who praised Scott’s ability to create chaos around the football.
“He’s an electric presence at the nickel and provides an energy that can’t be coached. His havoc-creating nature is one NFL teams will prioritize.”
Scott’s final collegiate season backed up that description. He finished with 110 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, and two interceptions, showing the willingness to attack downhill while also making plays in coverage.
Tampa Bay’s current depth chart gives Scott a clear path to contributing as a rookie. Jacob Parrish is projected to open the season as the starting nickel corner, while Zyon McCollum and Benjamin Morrison occupy the outside spots. Scott is currently listed as Parrish’s primary backup at nickel, and his ability to also play outside corner gives defensive coordinator Todd Bowles another versatile piece to deploy in sub-packages.
Scott may not enter training camp as a projected starter, but Knox believes his relentless play style and positional flexibility could help him earn a meaningful defensive role sooner rather than later. On defense, looking for more playmakers in the secondary, that versatility could prove valuable throughout the 2026 season.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs draft pick considered ‘overlooked’ by Bleacher Report
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
