The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered the 2026 NFL Draft looking to restore a defense to the physical and intimidating force it was just two years ago. The Bucs also looked to facilitate new Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson’s two-tight-end offense. Tampa Bay had goals of supporting Baker Mayfield with some weapons and also needed to find physical playmakers on the defensive side of the ball.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL Draft Grades: Loads of Talent on Defense
First Round (15th Overall): Reuben Bain Jr., Miami
Make no mistake about it, Bain Jr. has the portfolio of a stud rusher. At 6’2” and 263 pounds, he has the power and motor to generate pass rush on the edge and inside. His production in 2025 was stellar: 9.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. Some draft experts had Bain falling due to his shorter-than-desirable arms. For Bain to fall out of the top 7 or 8 was a surprise, though, and the Buccaneers benefited by grabbing the pass rush talent they were missing. Home run on this pick for the Bucs.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: A+
Second Round (46th Overall): Josiah Trotter, Linebacker
With Bain’s selection immediately improving the Bucs’ pass rush, the selection of Trotter continued to fortify the defense with an impactful run-stopper. Trotter will be a force on early downs right away, but will need work in pass coverage to become a three-down player. His liability in the passing game is something that can be developed, and his solid run defense is just what the Buccaneers needed to shore up their defense.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: A-
Third Round (84th Overall): Ted Hurst, Wide Receiver
The Buccaneers needed a threat to replace Mike Evans in the vertical passing game, and they found one in Hurst, who has the prototypical outside receiver. Baker Mayfield just gained a target with exceptionally strong hands who adjusts well to the ball in the air. Toss in an incredible burst after the catch, and this pick is a hit. The pick has added value with the injury history of Chris Godwin. The Bucs will develop Hurst, and he will be making big impacts from Day 1.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: A
Fourth Round (116th Overall): Keionte Scott, Corneback
Scott played cornerback in college and was arguably the best run defender at the cornerback position. He is football smart but he lacks elite man coverage skills. He will likely shift to safety for the Buccaneers, where he can impact in nickel coverage and in blitz packages. His selection fits with General Manager Jason Licht’s blueprint for transforming the Tampa Bay defense to a physical unit.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: A-
Fifth Round (155th Overall): Demonte Capehart, Defensive Tackle
Capehart is a prospect who puzzles scouts. Looking at his production alone, he would seem to be a marginal NFL defensive lineman. His value, however, is in playing gap-responsible football, occupying blockers, and anchoring the defensive front. Adding Capehart fits Licht’s plan to return the defense to a monster force. Capehart will plug up the middle, and with Bain and Trotter in the fold, the trio is going to make offensive lines struggle.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: B
Fifth Round (160th Overall): Billy Schrauth, Guard
In Robinson’s offense, versatility is key for offensive linemen. Baker Mayfield will have opportunities to flex in and out of options at the line of scrimmage, and Schrauth has an incredible football IQ meant to handle it all. Although he has had injuries that limited his time on the field the last two seasons at Notre Dame, Schrauth is solid in the running game. He lacks outstanding ability in his lateral movement, but in the right offense, he will turn into a solid starter.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: A-
Sixth Round (185th Overall) Bauer Sharp, Tight End
Sharp is a better run blocker in space than when standing up against pressure. He is predictable on pass routes, and although he has some agility, his pass-receiving skills are questionable. Sharp is a project that may be able to be coached by the Buccaneers’ staff. He will have to prove himself as a special teams contributor and demonstrate his potential to stick on this team.
Buccaneers Draft Grade: C-
OVERALL Team Draft Grade: A-
