Following a disappointing 2025 season and the retirement of Lavonte David, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have focused on strengthening their defense. The team made significant moves in free agency, acquiring linebackers Alex Anzalone and Christian Rozeboom, edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad, and defensive linemen A'Shawn Robinson and Rakeem Nuñez-Roches.
Anzalone and Robinson are expected to be starters, while Muhammad and Nuñez-Roches will contribute to a deeper rotation.
In the 2026 draft, the Buccaneers continued to prioritize their defense, with first-round pick Rueben Bain Jr. already named a starting outside linebacker. Second-round pick Josiah Trotter has also impressed and is in contention for a starting role.
Additionally, fourth-round selection Keionte Scott, a versatile defensive back, is emerging as a leading candidate for the slot corner position, which is critical given the team's defensive schemes.
Scott's preparation has been crucial as he missed much of the offseason due to wrist surgery. In the preseason, he logged 78 snaps on defense, significantly more than his fellow rookies. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gain experience, stating that the repetitions have been beneficial for his development.
