Buccaneers Seek Defensive Upgrades to Return to Playoffs in 2026

Tampa Bay missed the postseason in 2025 after a 5-1 start, raising questions about the team's future.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers missed the playoffs in 2025 despite a strong start to the season, leaving fans frustrated and the team searching for answers. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler analyzed the Bucs' situation, noting that the team's defense is the primary concern heading into the 2026 season. The Buccaneers will need to be aggressive in acquiring talent, either through trade or free agency, to improve their pass rush and overall defensive unit in order to return to the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers have been a consistent playoff contender in recent years, so missing the postseason in 2025 was a disappointment for the team and its fans. Improving the defense will be crucial for the Bucs to regain their status as a top NFC contender and make a run at the playoffs in 2026.

The details

According to Fowler, the Buccaneers' defense needs talent improvements at all three levels, with the pass rush being the most pressing need. The team could consider trading for a star pass rusher like Maxx Crosby or signing veterans like Trey Hendrickson and Bradley Chubb in free agency to bolster their edge-rushing unit.

  • The Buccaneers missed the playoffs in the 2025 season.

The players

Jeremy Fowler

An ESPN reporter who analyzed the Buccaneers' situation and offered suggestions on how the team can return to the playoffs in 2026.

Jason Licht

The general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who will be responsible for addressing the team's defensive needs in the offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Tampa Bay falls somewhere between contention and the need for a mini rebuild. The Bucs need to address their defense this offseason. The group needs talent improvements at all three levels, most notably pass rusher.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will need to be aggressive in the offseason to acquire defensive talent, either through trade or free agency, in order to improve their pass rush and overall defensive unit and return to the playoffs in 2026.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers' failure to make the playoffs in 2025 despite a strong start to the season has raised concerns about the team's future, with the defense being the primary area of focus. The team will need to address this issue through strategic personnel moves in order to regain their status as a top NFC contender and make a playoff run in 2026.