Buccaneers Explore Trade for Steelers LB Patrick Queen

Tampa Bay looks to bolster linebacker corps with potential Lavonte David replacement

Feb. 3, 2026 at 10:39pm

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are reportedly considering trading for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen as they look to rebuild their linebacker unit this offseason. Queen, a former Defensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowler, could be an ideal fit in Todd Bowles' defensive scheme and potentially replace the retiring Lavonte David.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers' linebacker corps is in flux, with the future of veteran Lavonte David uncertain. Acquiring the versatile and athletic Queen could shore up a key position of need and provide a long-term solution in the middle of Tampa Bay's defense.

The details

According to reports, the Buccaneers are exploring a trade for Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen, who has emerged as one of the league's top young linebackers over the past two seasons. Queen, a former first-round pick, is known for his range, coverage skills, and ability to make plays in both the run and pass game - attributes that would fit well in Todd Bowles' blitz-heavy defensive scheme in Tampa Bay.

  • The Buccaneers' offseason is already underway as they look to retool their roster for the 2026 season.
  • Lavonte David, the Buccaneers' longtime starting linebacker, is reportedly considering retirement.

The players

Patrick Queen

A two-time Pro Bowl linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his athleticism, coverage skills, and ability to make plays in both the run and pass game.

Lavonte David

A veteran linebacker who has been a cornerstone of the Buccaneers' defense for over a decade, but is reportedly considering retirement this offseason.

Todd Bowles

The Buccaneers' head coach, known for his aggressive, blitz-heavy defensive scheme that could benefit from the addition of a versatile linebacker like Patrick Queen.

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What they’re saying

“The Bucs have some cap space already and that's before they do the typical cap gymnastics that every team does to create space. Given how wide-open the NFC South was this season, they could get aggressive to push chips to the middle of the 2026 table.”

— Bleacher Report, Analyst (Bucs Report)

“Patrick Queen would be a fun fit in Todd Bowles' blitz-heavy scheme.”

— Bleacher Report, Analyst (Bucs Report)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will need to negotiate a trade package with the Steelers to acquire Patrick Queen, while also addressing Lavonte David's future with the team.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers' pursuit of Patrick Queen highlights their commitment to rebuilding their linebacker corps this offseason, as they look to replace the potential loss of a franchise icon in Lavonte David and bolster their defense for a potential playoff push in 2026.