Buccaneers Aim to Maintain Momentum in 2026 NFL Draft

Tampa Bay holds 7 picks, seeks impact players at key positions

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:10am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game, with sharp planes of pewter, red, and orange colors representing the action on the field.The Buccaneers' 2026 draft class will look to build on the team's recent success and keep Tampa Bay competitive in the NFC South.Today in Pittsburgh

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will look to build on their recent draft success as they head to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. With 7 total picks, including a first-rounder at #15 overall, the Bucs are targeting impact players at positions of need like edge rusher, linebacker, and tight end.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers have drafted well in recent years, landing key contributors like WR Emeka Egbuka, OL Graham Barton, and DL Calijah Kancey. Continuing to hit on their top picks will be crucial for the team to maintain their competitive edge in the NFC South.

The details

The Buccaneers hold 7 picks in the 2026 draft, including a first-rounder at #15 overall. Their top needs include edge rusher, linebacker, and tight end. Potential targets include Miami's Akheem Mesidor at edge, Georgia's CJ Allen at linebacker, and Kenyon Sadiq at tight end. The team has found success in recent years with players like Egbuka, Barton, and Kancey, who have become key contributors.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
  • Round 1 is on April 23, Rounds 2-3 on April 24, and Rounds 4-7 on April 25.

The players

Akheem Mesidor

A high-effort edge rusher from Miami with a fluid rush style and deep toolbox, Mesidor could be an option for the Buccaneers at #15 overall.

CJ Allen

The Georgia linebacker is a smooth, dependable player with elite run-defending skills that could fill a need for Tampa Bay.

Kenyon Sadiq

The athletic tight end from an undisclosed school has the speed and versatility to be an intriguing target, though he may struggle with power at the next level.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Mesidor is an instinctive, high-effort edge rusher with a fluid rush style and a deep toolbox. He bursts upfield and can shrink the corner while punishing oversetting tackles with inside counters.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

“Allen represents exactly what defensive coordinators covet in a modern off-ball linebacker: a player who can be trusted to do his job on every single snap without freelancing himself out of position.”

— NFL Draft Buzz

“Impressive athlete for his size in fluidity and explosiveness. Ideal versatility. Very reliable hands. Great feet in pass protection.”

— Trevor Sikkema, Analyst

What’s next

The Buccaneers will look to continue their recent draft success when the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off on April 23 in Pittsburgh.

The takeaway

With 7 total picks, including a valuable first-rounder, the Buccaneers have the opportunity to add impactful players at key positions of need as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the NFC South.