Top Defensive Prospects to Watch at East-West Shrine Bowl

A look at the most intriguing defensive talents participating in the annual all-star game

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:23pm

The East-West Shrine Bowl, one of the longest-running college all-star games, is set to take place tonight in Frisco, Texas. The Buccaneers' scouting department will be in attendance as they continue building their draft board ahead of April. This article highlights five defensive prospects participating in the game who could be of interest to Tampa Bay, including linebackers Jake Golday, Harold Perkins Jr., and Red Murdock, cornerback Jadon Canady, and edge rusher Anthony Lucas.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers have a few key defensive questions to address this offseason, including the potential retirement of linebacker Lavonte David, the need for more pass-rushing production, and depth in the secondary. These prospects showcasing their skills at the Shrine Bowl could provide solutions to some of those issues.

The details

Jake Golday is a 6-foot-4, 240-pound linebacker from Cincinnati who has impressive athleticism and the potential to become a reliable coverage linebacker in the NFL. Harold Perkins Jr. from LSU is a versatile defender who can line up all over the field and has shown the ability to be a dangerous pass rusher. Red Murdock of Buffalo is a tackling machine who has forced an FBS-record 17 career fumbles. Oregon's Jadon Canady has experience playing both outside and in the slot, and could provide depth in the Buccaneers' secondary. USC edge rusher Anthony Lucas has the ideal size and athleticism to develop into an impactful pass rusher at the next level.

  • The East-West Shrine Bowl will take place tonight in Frisco, Texas.

The players

Jake Golday

A 6-foot-4, 240-pound linebacker from Cincinnati who has impressive athleticism and the potential to become a reliable coverage linebacker in the NFL.

Harold Perkins Jr.

A versatile defender from LSU who can line up all over the field and has shown the ability to be a dangerous pass rusher.

Red Murdock

A linebacker from Buffalo who is a tackling machine, having forced an FBS-record 17 career fumbles.

Jadon Canady

A cornerback from Oregon who has experience playing both outside and in the slot, and could provide depth in the Buccaneers' secondary.

Anthony Lucas

An edge rusher from USC who has the ideal size and athleticism to develop into an impactful pass rusher at the next level.

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What they’re saying

“The spotlight turns to the main event tonight, when the East and West rosters square off on a nationally televised stage to showcase their skills. The Buccaneers' scouting department will be in attendance as they continue building their draft board ahead of April.”

— Gabriel Kahaian

The takeaway

The Buccaneers have several defensive needs to address this offseason, and the East-West Shrine Bowl provides an opportunity to evaluate some intriguing prospects who could help fill those holes. From linebackers to pass rushers to defensive backs, this year's game features a talented group of defensive players who will be looking to impress NFL scouts and potentially earn a spot on Tampa Bay's roster.