Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 Preview: Adjustments After Key Departures

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for the 2026 NFL season, facing significant changes after the departures of key players Mike Evans and Lavonte David. Despite a promising start last season, the team ended with a losing record, missing the playoffs.

Among the new additions is edge defender Rueben Bain Jr., who was a standout in college, ranking high in PFF grades and total pressures. Al-Quadin Muhammad, coming off a career-best season, is expected to bolster the defensive line. The linebacker group will see Alex Anzalone stepping in for Lavonte David, while rookie Josiah Trotter is anticipated to contribute immediately.

The Buccaneers' wide receiver corps remains strong, led by Chris Godwin and promising rookies like Emeka Egbuka and Ted Hurst. However, questions linger about the defensive interior, particularly concerning Calijah Kancey and A'Shawn Robinson. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the integration of new talent and the performance of returning players will be crucial.