With the 26th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ draft strategy is contingent on what the preceding three quarters of the NFL does first.
The Bucs have some pretty glaring needs, particularly at outside linebacker and cornerback following the losses of Shaq Barrett and Carlton Davis III. Need is not always the driver of Tampa Bay’s draft plan, but it no doubt plays a major role in their overall approach.
Early picks often come with the premium of needing to contribute quickly and substantially. While the Bucs used free agency to fill roster holes and maximize their flexibility in the draft, it’s no secret that Tampa Bay needs to upgrade their edge rush and continue to cycle talent through the secondary.
Here are the prospects the Bucs should be most likely to target on defense in the upcoming draft: