It is never too early to evaluate safety depth for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently prioritized versatile defensive backs who can impact the game in multiple phases, and Todd Bowles’ defensive structure depends on safeties who can rotate, disguise, and create turnovers. Tampa Bay values defensive backs who can contribute in coverage while also holding up as physical defenders near the line of scrimmage. While the Buccaneers may not be searching for an immediate starter, adding depth with ball production and scheme versatility remains a priority.
We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on USC safety Bishop Fitzgerald.
Information
Background
Fitzgerald enters the draft process as a well-traveled and productive defensive back, beginning his career at the junior college level before establishing himself at NC State and later transferring to USC. His path reflects both development and adaptability, as he consistently found ways to produce at each stop.
During his time at NC State, Fitzgerald totaled 97 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions, and 16 pass breakups across two seasons. He showed steady growth from 2023 to 2024, improving his impact in both coverage and run support while handling a full-time role.
In 2025 at USC, Fitzgerald elevated his play further, posting a 90.7 overall defensive grade while contributing across multiple phases. He recorded 49 tackles, four interceptions, and five pass breakups, continuing his trend of strong ball production. His ability to make plays in key moments, including a two-interception performance against Michigan, highlights his playmaking upside.
Throughout his career, Fitzgerald has consistently demonstrated a knack for finding the football, whether in coverage or in downhill attacking.
Notable Stats from 2025
In 2024 at NC State, Fitzgerald recorded 52 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups across 718 snaps, showing steady production before his transition to USC.
Skills
Fitzgerald plays with confidence and awareness in coverage. He shows a natural ability to read the quarterback and react to developing routes, which has translated into consistent interception and pass breakup production throughout his career.
In coverage, he thrives in zone concepts where he can keep plays in front of him and break on the football. His 90.7 coverage grade in 2025 reflects his ability to limit damage while still creating opportunities for takeaways.
As a run defender, Fitzgerald is active and willing. He plays with physicality and is not afraid to step into contact, though his size may limit him at times against larger offensive players. His missed-tackle rate shows room for improvement, but his effort and aggressiveness are evident.
His experience across multiple programs adds to his overall value. Fitzgerald has adjusted to different systems and competition levels while maintaining consistent production, which speaks to his football IQ and adaptability.
Player Summary
Bishop Fitzgerald projects as a mid-to-late Day 3 selection with a strong case to earn a roster spot due to his ball production and versatility. His ability to generate turnovers and contribute across multiple alignments gives him a clear path to contributing at the next level.
In Tampa Bay, Fitzgerald would project as a rotational safety with immediate special-teams value. His instincts and ability to create takeaways align well with Todd Bowles’ defensive philosophy, particularly in sub-packages that emphasize disguise and opportunistic play.
Long term, Fitzgerald has the upside to develop into a situational contributor in coverage. If he can continue refining his tackling consistency and hold up physically, his ball skills and experience give him a strong chance to outperform his draft position and carve out a role in an NFL secondary.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Bishop Fitzgerald, S, USC
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
