Buccaneers Gear Up for 2026 NFL Draft: Key Needs and Picks
The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off live from Pittsburgh on Thursday, April 23 and the latest crop of rookies will be hearing their names called all weekend long. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the biggest need is an obvious one: Edge rusher.
The Bucs will look different this season without all-time leading receiver Mike Evans and the recently-retired linebacker Lavonte David – two franchise cornerstones. The Bucs haven't had a solid pair of edge rushers since Shaquil Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul, who last played together in Tampa in 2021. Yaya Diaby led the Bucs with seven sacks and 62 pressures in 2025.
MORE: Biggest need for every team entering 2026 NFL Draft
Draft Needs: Adding Edge Rushers
Here's everything you need to know about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for this year's draft, including a round-by-round look at picks and a potential trade candidate already on the roster.
Best Prospect Fit: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
According to USA TODAY, this pick makes sense: Tampa Bay lost Mike Evans this year, making Denzel Boston a logical replacement. He's a big-bodied wideout known for his ability to make contested catches. Slipping him into the roster could alleviate pressure as the team adjusts post-Evans.
NFL DRAFT: Finding the perfect prospect for every team
Potential Trade: RB Bucky Irving
Per USA TODAY's Jack McKessy:
With a hefty cap hit, veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin appears locked into the roster. As a result, running back Bucky Irving could be a more viable trade asset ahead of the draft. After an impressive rookie season, his injury struggles could have diminished his standing within the team's plans. Moving Irving could free up capital to enhance the offensive line.
MORE: One player for all 32 teams who could be traded during the NFL draft
Buccaneers 2026 NFL Draft Picks by Round
Round 1
No. 15 (1.15)
Round 2
No. 46 (2.14)
Round 3
No. 77 (3.13)
Round 4
No. 116 (4.16)
Round 5
No. 155 (5.15)
Round 6
No. 195 (6.14)
Round 7
No. 229 (7.13)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 NFL Draft: Picks, team needs, trade candidates
Key Facts
- Upcoming Event: The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off live from Pittsburgh on April 23, 2026.
- Team Need: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' biggest need is an edge rusher.
- Key Losses: The Buccaneers lost Mike Evans and Lavonte David this season.
- Top Performer: Yaya Diaby led the Buccaneers with seven sacks and 62 pressures in 2025.
- Draft Picks: The Buccaneers have multiple draft picks including No. 15 in Round 1.
- Best Fit Prospect: WR Denzel Boston from Washington is a logical replacement for Mike Evans.
- Potential Trade Candidate: Running back Bucky Irving could be traded to free up cap space.
Background
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft by addressing key roster needs and considering potential trades. The team has adjusted its strategy following significant player losses.
Quick Answers
- What are Tampa Bay Buccaneers' biggest needs ahead of the draft?
- The biggest need for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is an edge rusher.
- When does the 2026 NFL Draft start?
- The 2026 NFL Draft starts on April 23, 2026.
- Who is Tampa Bay Buccaneers' best prospect fit for the draft?
- Denzel Boston from Washington is considered the best prospect fit for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- What draft picks do the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have?
- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have draft picks including No. 15 in Round 1 and No. 46 in Round 2.
- Who could be a potential trade candidate for the Buccaneers?
- Bucky Irving is a potential trade candidate for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- What challenges do the Buccaneers face this season?
- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face challenges with the loss of key players like Mike Evans and Lavonte David.
Frequently Asked Questions
What position do the Buccaneers need to fill in the draft?
The Buccaneers need to fill the edge rusher position in the draft.
What happened to Mike Evans?
Mike Evans is no longer with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as he was lost in free agency.
Source reference: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/buccaneers-2026-nfl-draft-picks-003410536.html
Comments
Sign in to leave a comment
Sign InLoading comments...