PITTSBURGH, PA — The lights of the North Shore are ready to shine. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers arrive in the Steel City holding the No. 15 overall pick and a clear mission: replenish a roster that narrowly missed the postseason in 2025. With seven total selections in their pocket, General Manager Jason Licht and head coach Todd Bowles are hunting for immediate impact players to bolster a defense that lost veteran leadership this offseason.
The festivities kick off on April 23, with the main stage set against the backdrop of Acrisure Stadium. While the team hit home runs with recent first-rounders like WR Emeka Egbuka (2025) and OL Graham Barton (2024), the pressure is on to find another cornerstone. Egbuka, who nearly claimed Offensive Rookie of the Year honors after a stellar debut season, has solidified the receiving corps, but the defensive side of the ball remains a work in progress.
The Hunt for an Elite Edge Rusher
Tampa Bay’s pass rush struggled for consistency last season. While Yaya Diaby remains a force, the departure of Joe Tryon-Shoyinka to the Browns left a void that must be filled. Most experts point toward Akheem Mesidor of Miami as the logical choice at 15. Mesidor, who will be 25 years old by training camp, is the definition of “pro-ready.” He racked up 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss in his final collegiate season, demonstrating a sophisticated rush style that should translate instantly to the Sunday stage.
If the Bucs look elsewhere, Rueben Bain Jr. is a name to watch, though his shorter arm length has some scouts pausing. However, his production at Miami—9.5 sacks last year—demonstrates he can win with sheer violence and hand speed. If both are off the board, keep an eye on Auburn’s Keldric Faulk, a physical specimen standing 6-foot-6 who would give Bowles a massive chess piece on the defensive line.
- Round 1, Pick 15: The Sweet Spot for an EDGE or Elite LB.
- Round 2, Pick 46: Look for a Day 1 starter at Guard or Safety.
- Round 3, Pick 77: Depth at Tight End or Cornerback.
“We aren’t just looking for athletes; we’re looking for football players who can handle the heat in December. Pittsburgh is the perfect place to find that grit. We have the 15th pick, and we expect that player to be on the field for us in Week 1.”
— Jason Licht, Buccaneers General Manager
Filling the Gaps: Linebacker and Tight End
The middle of the defense needs a facelift. Georgia’s CJ Allen is a fan-favorite target. He is a tackling machine who rarely misses, recording 85 total tackles in his breakout 2025 season. He doesn’t freelance; he fills gaps and punishes runners. With Calijah Kancey battling nagging injuries over the last 12 months, having a dependable linebacker like Allen could settle the entire defensive front.
On offense, the tight end position remains a question mark. Even with Cade Otton back, the Buccaneers could take a swing at Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq. Sadiq isn’t your traditional blocker; he is a 240-pound lightning bolt. He clocked a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the combine, a speed that matches elite running backs. He would provide Baker Mayfield with a vertical threat that this offense has missed since Mike Evans departed for San Francisco.
What’s Next for Tampa Bay?
The Buccaneers enter the draft with a solid foundation but specific needs. Hitting on Pick 15 is non-negotiable. If they secure a high-ceiling rusher like Mesidor and find a mid-round gem at linebacker, they will be favorites to reclaim the NFC South crown. The draft begins Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on how Licht manages his draft board in the shadows of the Three Rivers.
