Buccaneers Aim for Rebound in 2026 with Free Agency, Draft Moves

After a step back in 2025, the Bucs look to rebuild through key free agent signings and the draft.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:39pm

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With the 2025 season behind them, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are focused on rebounding in 2026 through strategic free agency moves and the upcoming draft. The team plans to address needs at quarterback, running back, offensive guard, and on the defensive front seven as they transition to a 4-3 defensive scheme. Key targets include veteran QB Marcus Mariota, RB Tyler Allgeier, OG Greg Van Roten, and DE Trey Hendrickson, along with draft picks to bolster the linebacker corps and secondary.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers are looking to regain their status as a Super Bowl contender after a disappointing 2025 campaign. By making smart personnel decisions in free agency and the draft, the team hopes to rebuild around their core offensive pieces and transition to a new defensive system that can better pressure opposing quarterbacks.

The details

In free agency, the Buccaneers plan to sign a veteran backup quarterback like Marcus Mariota to support starter Baker Mayfield, as well as running back Tyler Allgeier to complement Bucky Irving in the backfield. On the offensive line, they'll target a versatile veteran guard like Greg Van Roten who can also play center. Defensively, the big splash will be signing edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to boost the pass rush, while Kaeden Ellis will be brought in to provide veteran leadership at linebacker with the retirement of Lavonte David.

  • The NFL offseason officially begins after the Super Bowl.
  • Free agency opens in mid-March.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft takes place in late April.

The players

Marcus Mariota

A veteran quarterback who could serve as a reliable backup to Baker Mayfield.

Tyler Allgeier

A running back who knows the Buccaneers' offensive system and could provide depth behind Bucky Irving.

Greg Van Roten

A veteran offensive guard who can also play center, providing valuable versatility on the interior of the offensive line.

Trey Hendrickson

A talented edge rusher who the Buccaneers hope can boost their pass rush as they transition to a 4-3 defensive scheme.

Kaeden Ellis

A veteran linebacker who can provide leadership and experience to the Buccaneers' front seven following Lavonte David's retirement.

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What they’re saying

“With the right offseason and some good luck, the Buccaneers can do the same thing in 2026.”

— Greg D'Cruz, Author (bucsreport.com)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will look to be active in free agency starting in mid-March, aiming to sign key veteran pieces to bolster their roster ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers are determined to bounce back in 2026 after a disappointing 2025 campaign. By addressing needs through strategic free agent signings and the upcoming draft, the team hopes to rebuild around their core offensive talent and transition to a new defensive system that can better pressure opposing quarterbacks.