Buccaneers GM Hints at First-Round Draft Plans

Tampa Bay may prioritize defense despite offensive needs

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting in the Buccaneers' team colors, depicting a fragmented and overlapping scene of a football game, capturing the strategic complexity of the draft process.The Buccaneers' GM hints at a defensive-minded approach to the upcoming NFL Draft, reflecting the team's need to bolster its pass rush and secondary.Today in Tampa

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield, have a mostly set offense despite the loss of wide receiver Mike Evans. However, the team is expected to focus on adding defensive players early in the upcoming NFL Draft, according to comments from Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers have several holes to fill on the defensive side of the ball, particularly in the pass rush. Licht's comments suggest the team may prioritize defensive talent in the first round, even if that means passing on offensive players that could immediately contribute.

The details

Licht acknowledged that the team could go in different directions with their first-round pick, stating "you can never go wrong with taking the best player." However, most mock drafts have the Buccaneers selecting a pass rusher to bolster their defense.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

Jason Licht

The general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Baker Mayfield

The starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Mike Evans

A former wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who recently left the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I feel like I've said this every year, you can never go wrong with taking the best player,”

— Jason Licht, General Manager

What’s next

The Buccaneers will have the opportunity to address their defensive needs when the 2026 NFL Draft begins on April 24.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers' focus on defense in the upcoming draft reflects the team's desire to improve a unit that struggled at times last season, even as the offense remains largely intact. Licht's comments suggest the team will take the best available player, whether on offense or defense, when they make their first-round selection.