The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft
Early projections suggest they may target an edge rusher to bolster their defense. In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Buccaneers selected Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 19th overall pick, aiming to address their pass rush deficiencies. Pearce, known for his athleticism and speed, was expected to make an immediate impact on the Buccaneers’ defense.
Looking forward to the 2026 draft, one potential target for the Buccaneers could be Auburn’s standout edge rusher, Keldric Faulk. Faulk has been gaining attention as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, with some analysts projecting him as a first-round pick. His performance in the 2024 season, where he recorded impressive statistics, has solidified his status as one of the premier edge rushers in college football.
The Buccaneers’ defensive coordinator, Todd Bowles, has emphasized the need to improve the pass rush without relying heavily on blitzing. Selecting a player like Faulk, who has demonstrated the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback, would align with Bowles’ defensive philosophy. Faulk’s combination of size, speed, and technique makes him a compelling prospect for the Buccaneers as they look to strengthen their defense in the upcoming draft.
while the 2026 NFL Draft is still some time away, early mock drafts and projections suggest that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may look to bolster their defense by selecting an edge rusher. A player like Auburn’s Keldric Faulk could be a valuable addition to the Buccaneers’ defensive line, providing the team with a dynamic pass rusher to complement their existing defensive assets.
