The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made it clear this offseason that they wanted more out of their linebacker room, especially in coverage. And the moves they’ve made since then paint a pretty telling picture, one that doesn’t exactly favor SirVocea Dennis as he heads into a pivotal third season.
Dennis entered the league with a reputation as a modern linebacker, athletic, instinctive, and capable in coverage. That was supposed to be his strength. But through two seasons, that aspect of his game hasn’t consistently translated at the NFL level. Whether it’s been late reactions in zone or struggles carrying routes downfield, the “strength” on his scouting report has, at times, become a concern. And the Bucs took notice.
Tampa Bay went out and signed veteran Alex Anzalone, bringing in a proven, steady presence who has long been trusted in coverage situations. He’s the type of linebacker defensive coordinators lean on as being assignment sound, experienced, and reliable in space.
Shortly after, they added Christian Rozeboom in free agency, another player who offers versatility and special teams value while holding his own in passing situations, even after a bit of a struggle in 2025.
Then came the selection of Josiah Trotter in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Trotter adds a different dimension to the room as a physical, downhill presence with a high motor and strong instincts against the run and potential in coverage as he grows.
His arrival further crowds an already competitive position group.
Put it all together, and Dennis’ path becomes a lot murkier. Instead of building on his role, he now finds himself competing in a room that has been specifically upgraded in areas he was expected to excel in. Dennis still has the athletic traits that made him an intriguing prospect, but at this stage, traits alone won’t carry him. The Buccaneers have emphasized reliability and consistency, particularly in coverage, and have brought in players who already provide that.
They went looking for what they weren’t getting, and that puts SirVocea Dennis squarely on the bubble.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Could the Bucs move on from SirVocea Dennis soon?
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
