CBS Sports pointed toward Tampa Bay’s defensive overhaul as one of the biggest reasons the Buccaneers should feel optimistic entering the 2026 season.
Last year, Tampa Bay finished 20th in points allowed while also struggling in red-zone defense, which forced the front office to address multiple areas of the unit in free agency and the draft.
That effort started with Rueben Bain Jr. in the first round. Tampa Bay needed more disruption up front after producing only 37 sacks in 2025, and Bain enters the roster with the expectation of helping immediately as part of Todd Bowles’ pressure packages.
The Buccaneers followed that by continuing to add speed and youth at linebacker, including the selection of Josiah Trotter. The linebacker room went through major changes this offseason, and Tampa Bay clearly prioritized adding players capable of contributing as blitzers and downhill defenders.
The optimism surrounding the Buccaneers mostly hinges on whether those defensive changes translate quickly. The offense already has enough proven pieces to remain competitive. If the defense takes a noticeable step forward, Tampa Bay becomes a much more balanced team entering 2026.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Why do the Bucs have hope for the 2026 season?
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
