The season ended with a bitter taste in Tampa. Their initial 6-2 record fueled real expectations of divisional dominance, but the team fizzled out, finishing 8-9 and losing the NFC South to Carolina. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers decided to retain Todd Bowles, though not without significant adjustments to the coaching staff. The departure of the offensive coordinator and the arrival of Zac Robinson mark the beginning of a new offensive approach.
This context makes the draft more than just a depth tool. Many new names will emerge in the coming months, but before being seduced by specific prospects, it’s wise to clarify the structural priorities. The roster has obvious gaps. Some due to performance. Others due to age. Still others due to upcoming contract decisions.
In free agency, the focus will be on the future of Mike Evans, who is entering his 12th season, and on Cade Otton’s market value. Rachaad White is expected to leave in search of a more prominent role. And all signs point to Lavonte David potentially ending his legendary career. Given this context, a partial rebuild is inevitable.
Inside Linebacker: Replacing Leadership and Production
If David retires, the impact won’t just be statistical. It will be emotional and tactical. SirVocea Dennis and Nick Jackson would remain under contract, with Dennis entering his final year.
Tampa needs more than just rotation. It needs a starter with lateral range, disciplined coverage, and the ability to make an impact on third down. The logical approach would be to combine a proven veteran in free agency with a significant draft pick and a developmental prospect in the mid-rounds. The position demands both depth and quality.
Edge Rusher: Find the Leader
External pressure wasn’t enough in 2025. Haason Reddick didn’t live up to expectations. Chris Braswell didn’t make the expected leap. Markees Watts is a special teams player. David Walker remains an unknown quantity after his injury.
The only solid option is Yaya Diaby, more comfortable as a complementary player than as the primary option. Bowles’ defense needs a pass rusher who forces double screens and dictates game plans. Without that type of player, the secondary is exposed and the system loses its aggressiveness.
Defensive Tackle: Urgent Succession Plan
Vita Vea continues to be dominant at times, but he enters his contract year at 31. Calijah Kancey provides explosiveness inside, although his injury history raises concerns. Logan Hall has yet to solidify his role.
The franchise needs to think long-term. They need a defensive tackle who can cover double screens and another who can penetrate inside. It’s not just about rotation. It’s about protecting the future of the defensive line.
Cornerback: talent, stability and health
The potential departure of Jamel Dean would open another front. Benjamin Morrison showed talent, but also physical problems. Zyon McCollum’s performance dipped after his contract extension.
Jacob Parrish showed promise in the slot. Even so, the perimeter needs real competition. A physical, disciplined cornerback ready to play from his first year would be a perfect fit for the defensive structure.
Tight End: room for offensive improvement
If Otton renews, the position will be functionally covered, but not exceptionally so. Payne Durham is in his final year. Devin Culp has been largely ineffective. Ko Kieft’s main contribution is in special teams.
With Robinson leading the attack, a dynamic tight end can be a key strategic asset, especially in the red zone and during play-action.
Draft capital and strategic focus
Tampa Bay retains its seven draft picks: 15, 46, 77, 116, 153, 193, and 229. Flexibility is absolute. There are no massive contract obligations limiting the strategy.
The approach should be clear:
Achieve immediate impact in defense.
Ensure generational renewal in critical positions.
Add real competition on the perimeter.
It’s not just about talent. It’s about identity. After the 2025 collapse, the Buccaneers need to regain aggressiveness, leadership, and consistency. The draft will be the first step in that partial rebuild.
🏴☠️ Subscribe and Join the Krewe!
If you don’t want to miss any news about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers preseason:
📺 Subscribe to our Twitch channel: https://www.twitch.tv/canonesyfootball
🤝 Join the Cañones y Football community: https://forms.gle/PVkgo2RPRvV6Srik9
💬 Enter our Discord: https://gobucs.es/la-taberna-del-grog-de-gobucs/
Make sure you follow Alf on social media by clicking here!
Then check out his website for the best Buccaneers content for our Spanish speaking fans by clicking the logo below, or clicking here!
This article was translated from it’s original form in Spanish to English via META AI.
Follow, Like and Subscribe to Bucs Report
BucsReport.com
For more on this, the NFL and everything Buccaneers check back here hourly at BucsReport.com