The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a crucial task this offseason as they seek to revamp their linebacker unit, with the possibility that veteran Lavonte David may retire looming. Among their options, selecting former Georgia Bulldog CJ Allen in the 2026 NFL Draft emerges as a promising solution to fill the gap in the inside linebacker position.
The Bucs hold the 15th overall pick in the upcoming draft, and their most coveted prospects include Ohio State stars Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles. However, Reese’s exceptional pass-rushing skills suggest he will likely be chosen among the top five picks, making him an unlikely target for Tampa Bay. Styles remains a possible candidate but is projected to be selected before the 15th spot, complicating the Buccaneers’ plans to acquire him.
Why CJ Allen Aligns with Tampa Bay’s Linebacker Requirements
If Lavonte David opts to retire, the Buccaneers’ need for a reliable inside linebacker will intensify dramatically. The team is therefore exploring various alternatives at this position, with CJ Allen standing out as a compelling candidate. Frequently linked to the Buccaneers by draft analysts, Allen exhibits the leadership and intelligent playmaking that fans and management covet as a potential David replacement.
Brett Kollmann, an All 32 draft analyst, revealed after speaking with Allen at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine that Allen took charge of making defensive calls and adjustments for Georgia’s defense throughout the 2025 season. Georgia’s defensive coordinator, Glenn Schumann, entrusted Allen with the responsibility to
“run the show most of the time,”
underscoring his integral role and football acumen.
This insight highlights Allen’s advanced understanding of the game, an important factor for inside linebackers transitioning to the NFL. While some may question the claim since it originates from Allen, it’s a detail easily verifiable by Georgia’s coaching staff, lending it strong credibility. Playing a key leadership role at a powerhouse defensive program like Georgia demonstrates Allen’s capacity to read offenses and direct teammates—skills highly valued at the professional level.
Implications for Tampa Bay’s Defensive Future
Allen’s combination of tactical intelligence, leadership ability, and on-field performance positions him as an ideal candidate to assume the mantle from Lavonte David if the veteran retires. The Buccaneers plan to examine him closely through the draft process, especially within their first two rounds, as they seek not only physical talent but also cerebral defenders who can call plays and execute complex defensive strategies.
Replacing a team cornerstone like David is never easy, but by targeting a player like CJ Allen—who combines awareness, leadership, and playmaking skill—Tampa Bay aims to stabilize their inside linebacker role and maintain defensive effectiveness moving forward. As the offseason unfolds and draft rankings solidify, Allen could prove to be a key piece in the Buccaneers’ defensive rebuild.
Talked to Georgia linebacker CJ Allen a bit just now.
Apparently Glenn Schumann just let him run the show on the field most of the time unless he had a specific situational call on the sheet he wanted to get into.
For everything else, Allen did the calls, the checks, all of it.
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) February 25, 2026
