Buccaneers Share Emotional Draft Call with Tez Johnson

The team's reaction to selecting the linebacker in the 2026 NFL Draft went viral.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:50pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes and splatters of paint capturing the raw emotion and energy of an NFL draft selection.The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' heartfelt reaction to drafting a new player exemplifies the human drama and personal connections at the heart of the NFL draft.Today in Tampa

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers shared a video of their emotional phone call with linebacker Tez Johnson after selecting him in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team's excited and heartfelt reaction to welcoming Johnson to the organization has been widely praised as one of the best draft call moments in recent memory.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers' draft call with Johnson provides an intimate look at the human side of the NFL draft process, showcasing the joy and pride that teams and players experience when they are united. This type of content resonates strongly with football fans and helps build connections between teams, players, and their communities.

The details

In the video, Buccaneers coaches and executives can be heard passionately congratulating Johnson and expressing their excitement to have him join the team. Johnson is visibly emotional as he thanks the organization and shares his own joy at being drafted by Tampa Bay.

  • The video was posted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on April 11, 2026, shortly after the team selected Johnson in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Tez Johnson

A linebacker prospect who was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The NFL team based in Tampa, Florida that drafted Tez Johnson.

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What they’re saying

“Welcome to the family, Tez! We're so excited to have you!”

— Buccaneers Coach

“Thank you, thank you so much. I can't wait to get to work!”

— Tez Johnson

The takeaway

The Buccaneers' emotional draft call with Tez Johnson is a heartwarming reminder of the personal connections and life-changing moments that are at the core of the NFL draft experience for both teams and players.