The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been active this offseason, making several low-risk additions to build out depth across the roster. But with the 2026 NFL Draft quickly approaching, the team’s biggest needs are still pretty clear; most of them sit on the defensive side of the ball.
At the top of the list is edge rusher. Tampa Bay addressed the position earlier this offseason, signing Al-Quadin Muhammad, who had a breakout year with 10+ sacks, but not in a way that definitively solves the problem. The Bucs still lack a true, starting-caliber edge presence who can consistently generate pressure. In a division loaded with improving offenses, that’s not something they can afford to ignore. Adding an impact pass rusher early in the draft feels very much in play.
Linebacker is the second biggest need. Lavonte David has ridden into the sunset after a legendary tenure in Tampa. The Buccaneers addressed his departure with Alex Anzalone, a true through-and-through leader who should effortlessly step into that leadership role. However, there’s a lack of young, proven depth behind him. Tampa added a few other linebackers, such as Christian Rozeboom, but that only raises the floor and pushes SirVocea Dennis, who should not be considered a starter at this point. Drafting a true blue-chip linebacker to mold into “That Man” should be a priority.
Cornerback remains one of the biggest question marks on the roster. Even after signing Chase Lucas and Kemon Hall, the Bucs still don’t have a clear answer on the outside. Those additions provide depth and special teams value, but they shouldn’t prevent Tampa Bay from targeting a corner, potentially even early, to push for a starting role and bring much-needed competition to the secondary.
And then there’s the defensive line. While the unit still has talent, it’s clear the Bucs could use more youth and long-term upside up front. Adding fresh legs through the draft would help keep the rotation strong and prepare for the future. All signs point to a defense-heavy approach for Tampa Bay.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: What needs to the Bucs have this close to the 2026 NFL Draft?
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
