The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing to strengthen their defense in the 2026 draft after a difficult 2025 season marked by injuries and inconsistent play. Despite starting strong with six wins in eight games, Tampa Bay finished with only two victories in their last nine matchups, highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements. With approximately $23 million in cap space and potential flexibility through contract adjustments, the Buccaneers are expected to prioritize defense, particularly at the pass-rusher and secondary positions, while addressing select offensive needs.
Potential First-Round Pick: Edge Rusher Cashius Howell from Texas A&M
The Buccaneers are targeting Cashius Howell, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, with their first-round selection at pick 15. Howell, though smaller in size, exhibits impressive athleticism and a strong pass-rush impact. Over the past two seasons, he recorded a 19.9% pass-rush win rate, accumulating 16 sacks and 74 pressures. This level of production makes him an attractive option to address Tampa Bay’s need for a dynamic presence on the defensive front.
Second-Day Prospects: Tight End Eli Stowers and Linebacker Deontae Lawson
Tampa Bay could add offensive support through the deep tight end class expected in 2026, with Eli Stowers from Vanderbilt emerging as a notable Day 2 prospect. In 2025, Stowers caught 62 passes, converting 40 first downs and generating nearly half of his 769 receiving yards after the catch, highlighting his ability to create plays on the move.
On defense, linebacker Deontae Lawson from Alabama offers youthful energy and dependable coverage. Lawson secured positive grades on 14.7% of his run-defense snaps and allowed only 205 yards on 31 targets during the season. His tackling efficiency and coverage skills could bolster Tampa Bay’s linebacker group, which requires reinforcements.
Mid-Round Candidates to Strengthen Line and Secondary
In the fourth round, guard Billy Schrauth from Notre Dame offers immediate depth with starting potential on the interior offensive line. Despite missing five games in 2025 due to an MCL sprain, Schrauth allowed only one sack and 10 pressures over 562 pass-blocking snaps in the previous two seasons, underscoring his reliability in protection schemes.
At pick 153 in the fifth round, cornerback Thaddeus Dixon from North Carolina represents a promising addition to the secondary. Though injuries limited his 2025 season, his 2024 performance showed real NFL potential—allowing completions on just 47.1% of passes targeted at him, he recorded an interception and forced 12 incompletions, signaling strong coverage skills.
Looking Ahead: Draft Strategy Aims to Reinforce Key Position Groups
The Buccaneers face critical roster decisions entering free agency, including the impending departure of cornerback Jamel Dean and the expiration of pass rusher Yaya Diaby’s contract. Both areas lack depth beyond the starters, making the draft crucial for the team’s defensive future. Offensively, improving the guard position and adding a versatile tight end could help quarterback Baker Mayfield return to his early-season form seen in 2025.
By focusing on these key positions, Tampa Bay hopes to rebuild a defense capable of consistent success and provide offensive support that stabilizes the team’s performance. The upcoming 2026 draft is poised to play a significant role in shaping the Buccaneers’ trajectory as they aim for a competitive rebound.
