Go Get Sonny Styles
February 6th, 2026
Manna from heaven for Bucs.
The Bucs may need three new inside linebackers for 2026.
It’s unclear if Bucs icon Lavonte David will return next year or retire. But the way David has talked since the Bucs’ season ended and the goodbye (farewell?) speech he gave teammates after the win over the Stinking Panthers last month make it seem like he’s done.
Joe doesn’t care how Bucs AC/DC-loving general manager Jason Licht does it; trade for two or three, draft two or three; sign two or three. However it adds up. Get three linebackers.
(Joe is done with SirVocea Dennis as an NFL starting inside linebacker. His first two years he was injury-prone. Last year he was lack-of-talent prone. Move on.)
Over at the PFF tribe, Ryan Smith thinks if the Bucs are serious about fixing their inside linebacker issues, then the answer is Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.
… Tampa Bay’s linebacker unit finished the year [with awful inside linebacker play], so the issues at the position go well beyond David. Possessing a rare combination of size, speed and physicality, Styles would provide an immediate boost to the unit. He is one of the best pure tacklers in this year’s draft, missing just two of his attempts in 2025.
An Ohio State linebacker missing two tackles all season!? That brings a tear to Joe’s eye. Who’s slicing onions?
The Bucs were borderline woeful in tackling too often last year. Way too often the Bucs defense proved Antonio Cromartie isn’t the only guy who doesn’t wrap up.
Styles is a machine and Joe would love him on the Bucs roster. Joe just doesn’t know how Styles gets past Dallas at No. 12 unless someone sends Jerry Jones a video of Styles using a bong mask.
Sonny Styles run defense. Block destruction, lateral movement, instincts, and elite tackling form pic.twitter.com/kzQ322fsBW
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) February 5, 2026
February 6th, 2026 at 9:03 am
I agree with my whole heart. Draft him or draft Cassius Howell and a LB in the 2nd
February 6th, 2026 at 9:08 am
NEED this guy, and getting Crosby would negate that. I keep reading that Dallas is gonna snag him at 13 or whatever. I’d like Jacob Rodriguez too
February 6th, 2026 at 9:11 am
My top wish pick for the Bucs is this guy. might have to trade up though. Cowgirls go before us and they need a LB since they traded away the best they ever had last year.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:13 am
If we are actually trading up for an off ball backer it had better be because he’s a stud in coverage. We are mostly ok against the run..I don’t follow college ball, but apparently he’s a converted safety and great in coverage. Would be more interested in highlights of that
February 6th, 2026 at 9:20 am
IDK LOL…
unfortunately, we’re not a ILB away from being SB contenders…I wouldnt trust bowles with a 1st round defensive pick to save his life let alone his job lol….
does tryon and DW45 ring a bell…
rotate Bullock and Jackson with LVD….Let Dennis play 3rd down only until he shows he can handle more…
i dont see how drafting a defensive player in the 1st round will help keep baker healthy and improve the run game…
draft OG 1st round so we dont have to depend on michael jordan, haggrad or Mauch, who will be less than 100% in 2026…
GO BUCS!!!!
February 6th, 2026 at 9:21 am
Remember that last MEANINGLESS win …..
February 6th, 2026 at 9:27 am
was watching mel kiper last night….for some reason, folks believe ruben bain will fall outside of the top 10 due to arm length lol…that is absolutely laughable lol….
imo, ruben bain is the best player in the draft…he should be the #1 pick imo…
he’s the only defensive player we should draft and we’ll have to trade up for him…
with bowles running the show, i have zero faith he or his new staff can develop any defensive player that isnt already a stud
GO BUCS!!!!
February 6th, 2026 at 9:28 am
Not sure if you caught it yesterday, but Mike MacDonald mentioned that working on the fundamentals of tackling is a huge reason why his Seahawks defense is so good.
“We drill the fundamentals of tackling and finishing every day,” Macdonald said. “We do it as a team, we do it in our warmup before games. It’s part of our DNA and the guys take a lot of pride in it.”
Why can’t the Bucs do this? If they are, why can’t they do it more?
February 6th, 2026 at 9:32 am
The film is kind of weak. Lots of shoulder tackling. Doesn’t seem that fast either. I’ll pass.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:42 am
I’m gonna get blasted I’m sure BUT here we go. From these highlights we already had a guy that tackled like this and folks were complaining about his style of tackling. This guy is already wearing a shoulder harness so get a close look at the medical there’s probably a surgery coming soon. BTW I’m not sure but the other guy I’m speaking of I believe led his team in tackles this year already knows our defense and has hopefully matured. Go kick the tires on Devin White and also get 1or 2 guys that are good in coverage.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:43 am
Joe, unless some negative rumor/news, everybody knows he will go before # 15….And you don’t move on the draft in order to get a LB, so I would say Styles to TB is science fiction
February 6th, 2026 at 9:44 am
SB~LV. That last win was meaningless after the Falcons beat the Saints the next day. But it was a meaningful win the day we won it and it was against a team playing pretty good football, needing to win to guarantee themselves a spot in the playoffs.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:44 am
Pipe dream.
Commandos will grab him earlier than 12 to replace Wagner
February 6th, 2026 at 9:44 am
If it takes a couple of years to learn the defense, why bother wasting a first round pick.
Sign some 26-27 year old free agent linebackers from solid defensive teams.
Draft a DE and let him play.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:46 am
SB~LV 🏈 Says:
February 6th, 2026 at 9:21 am
Remember that last MEANINGLESS win …..
——
Not so meaningless when you consider players are earning their checks and bonuses in that game. If only NfL football was like Madden………..
February 6th, 2026 at 9:48 am
Definitely a great tackler. The highlight reel was all running plays. Would have liked to see him in coverage.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:50 am
Devin White is a stud
He just became bored and checked out two years before
The rest of the team checked out
February 6th, 2026 at 9:53 am
Yes we need 2 LB’s desperately!!. Maybe one draft one and get a really good on in in free agency. Even more inportant they need to cover. Second, yes, yes , and yes, why can’t we tackle!!. It has been an going issue for a few years. We need to addres that seriously. Maybe we can get the idea from the Seahawks how that needs to be addressed. I like everyday and a mantra daily
February 6th, 2026 at 10:03 am
Remember that meaningless win at the end of the season?
February 6th, 2026 at 10:04 am
I like Styles, but a few other ILBs in this draft, who may not be worth our 1st round pick but still come with comparable value.
Styles & Reese are the clear top 2 at the position, partly for the size and athleticism you get to go with a level of play that’s getting them all this attention.
However, I wouldn’t be shocked if we
a.) missed out on either player falling to us
b.) ended up passing in favor of someone like Cashius Howell.
That’s where the positional value vs. positional need comes into play. The two could make selection make more sense, or further conflict our draft team when it’s their time to choose. If it came down to our pick at 15th, no trade, and we’re looking at a board with Styles & Howell still available I think it’s 50-50 who’d we take there.
Guy’s like Anthony Hill, Kyle Louis, Nikhai Hill-Green & Shad Banks(could get him day AND still get Hill/Louis/Hill-Green day 2) outside of the 1st round would also be good options if we were presented with the above opportunity and went with Howell.
What I am noticing about the ILB position, is that there are at least a handful of prospects who’ve either playe off-ball/edge, but moonlit doing the other.
Guys like Harold Perkins from LSU doesn’t project well as a pro edge rusher right away, but does his athleticims & IQ warrant drafting him to play off ball?
Trey Moore out of Texas is a tweener in the same way. along Mitch Melton from UVA, & the Khot kid from Vandy.
A gem of a player I’ve been keeping my eye on is Christian Thomas out of UofMaine. 6’3, 220-230lbs, makes being quick look fast, and he was lights out getting downhill.
He & guys like Shad Banks, would be awesome double dip candidates imo. Give me some premium talent day 1/2 and then get me who’s probably a bit raw, but come with some desirable athletic tools.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:04 am
News flash we never wrap up, and we don’t party @ the football.
One reason I fell in love with the Bucs back in the day they got to the football, it would seem like there was 13 players instead of 11👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾get to the football.
Big Fan of Jacob Rodriguez, not @ 15. But grab him.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:08 am
Completely disagree with Joe on this. Bucs should trade back and pick up draft capital for a much better 2027 draft. Give next year’s regime more ammo to get whom they want in the draft.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:16 am
If I’m the Cowboys, I would probably take a pass on re-signing Pickens. Then take a WR at #12 on a rookie contract instead, for the next 5-years. I haven’t looked at the first mock draft or top prospects list. But, I don’t think they could go wrong with the Lemon kid at USC, or Tyson out of Arizona State. If they are both gone, then I’d go with the top EDGE, or Caleb Downs if he’s still there, as BPA. I would really hate NOT re-signing Pikens, but the price will be driven astronomically HIGH, and they have too many other more important needs. Dak makes these WR’s look a lot better than what they really are anyway. There will be capable WR’s in the 2nd-Round for them. At first, as was ‘all-in’ on re-signing Pickens. Now, I’m not so sure.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:16 am
We could’ve has Schwesinger last draft, but no. But i agree on styles….but if he isnt there, draft Vega Loane and get a lb 2nd, maybe cj allen makes it to us or we can get Deontae Lawson in the 3rd (similar to Styles).
February 6th, 2026 at 10:19 am
Dude tackles high, every clip there shows him grabbing shoulder pads. Maybe it’s just this handful of clips but I’m getting D White vibes. We need someone who plays with better pass level and fills a hole with authority.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:21 am
Why write about something that you are not going to get, who is 2nd in line?
February 6th, 2026 at 10:33 am
Also, if I’m the Cowboys… I would sign RWhite, on top of my above strategy! I think that would position them very nicely. Especially, with having ‘TWO’ 2027-FIRSTS, in that LOADED ASS Class.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:35 am
sorry folks – howell & styles are gone by the 12th pick. so what does jl do? same as he did last year. he’ll take the best VALUE PICK. not the best player at a position that needs attention. enter sadiq. the team needs defense, but leave up to licht with that silly grin to make a useless pick. the he can make his defensive picks from pepperdine, st mary’s, and the sisters of the poor univ.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:37 am
The guards name is Olaivavega Ioane. No “L” involved.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:42 am
We need help at DT as much as ILB, and OLB. Thanks ROH GM Licht.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:43 am
Fantasy Island….I guess it’s fun to dream. He won’t be there @ 15. The organization actually has some cap space finally so sign some free agents and take the best available player in the draft.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:45 am
I just think RWhite would be THE perfect fit there. Dak gets himself a much needed extra blocker, and a dangerous WEAPON coming outta the backfield. He was soooo misused in Tampa Bay last season, as they were SO stubbornly insistent on feeding Bucky the ball… The “Hot-Hand,” ya know LoL.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:47 am
@ Hodad Says: “We need help at DT as much as ILB, and OLB. Thanks ROH GM Licht.”
Yep. Ya damn right! It should’ve already been taken care of LAST DRAFT, with BIG BADDDDD Deone FREAKING Walker. A blown opportunity. 💯
February 6th, 2026 at 10:52 am
If he gets drafted before us,
There are no other MLB’s expected to get drafted in Round 1.
I think it would be wise to trade back. Get some more picks.
And draft 2 MLBs in rounds 1-4.
Draft two guys who can develop together.
We could realistically draft 2 of the top 4 MLBs in this draft class if we are smart about it.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:00 am
If they’re trading up for anyone it should b Bailey – trade down or take Howl or Mesidoor or even R Mason Thomas
lots of ILB later –
February 6th, 2026 at 11:04 am
So they draft Styles. Big hooey! He’ll get buried in TB’s defensive wonderland and flame out in 2-3 years. I would try and trade up for Bain and then watch TB try to convert him to a LB. He might be too good for Bowles to ruin him.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:08 am
We could say the same thing for multiple defensive positions; DB, EDGE, DT.
We have whiffed on so many positions, it’s crazy! BUT, you have to start somewhere. LVD’s replacement is a good place to start.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:15 am
Had to grab a spit cup halfway through those highlights just to catch all the drool. A perfect fit.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:29 am
I believe Texas Tech Jacob Rodriguez is the best ILB in this draft
The Bucs could probably get him in late 1st round, or early 2nd round
A move down in 1st or a move up in 2nd
The knock on him is his size 6’1 235 lbs
The exact same size as LVD and Derrick Brooks
He may be a little slower, but he have good coverage skills
And he’s an excellent tackle with good ball skills
High football IQ, good fundamentals
February 6th, 2026 at 11:35 am
Jim Schwartz just put in his resignation letter to the Browns! Let’s get him! How would that work with 2 yrs left on his contract though?
February 6th, 2026 at 11:36 am
We just need a LB in the style of Styles, but without the hefty price tag of a high draft pick.
Just had an idea, and don’t laugh, but what IF we got Styles and we also got Dev White back? (After he clears waivers from a psychiatrist, LOL). My point is it’d be a wish-list to have 2 players on the Bucs LB core with those talents. Wow.
OK, back to the real world…
Go Bucs ! ! !
February 6th, 2026 at 11:39 am
LakelandBuc, I believe Jacob Rodriguez is just a football player. And that’s exactly what this defense needs is a good football player. He has the best leadership instincts of maybe any defensive player in the draft. He plays with more fire than our entire defense has. He’d be perfect. I don’t care about his measurables, Watch the Film. And look at his background. Perfect fit for Lichts “I am that man”.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:41 am
@ bucnjim Says: “The organization actually has some cap space finally so sign some free agents.”
The had PLENTY enough “cap space” last season. They just decided to use most of it on Godwin AND Reddick. To the tune of about $35-MILLION completely WASTED. Just thrown away. Like, taking a match to it!!!!
February 6th, 2026 at 11:46 am
And we can get Rodriguez. He’s moving up draft boards, not down. If we miss on this guy we oughta be ashamed of ourselves.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:50 am
@ Bucsfanman Says: “We could say the same thing for multiple defensive positions; DB, EDGE, DT. We have whiffed on so many positions, it’s crazy! BUT, you have to start somewhere. LVD’s replacement is a good place to start.”
And, Lickt and Bowles continues to hold onto them for dear LIFE, no matter what. Neither one of them have even the first clue about evaluating and developing TALENT. Successful FO’s move off of guys QUICK, and then immediately begin looking for ways to plug the hole(s). Whether that be through Free Agency, or Trade. The Bucs just stand pat and try selling all of us on HOW GREAT the guy’s going o be next season. When, our own ‘eyes’ obviously tells us otherwise. Neither one of them (Lickt and Bowles) know what the hell they are doing.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:52 am
Likely Bowles will screw this guy up too. He’ll go from being a college superstar to a bust real quick.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:59 am
Jason is going to surprise the world with his genius,
Red Murdock from Buffalo is the perfect Licht Loser pick for the first round.
Put $$$$ on it
February 6th, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Agree Joe that Bucs need THREE ILBs (I’d keep SVD as our backup 4th). IF LVD re-signs, he’ll only be part-time & I wouldn’t count him as 1 of our 4 ILB mainstays’ because of that.
Personally I hope that Dallas does draft Styles because I’d rather have his teammate Arvell Reese (6’4″ & 238 lbs). He’s not as fast (4.68 secs) but is projected to go in the Top-10 in the draft. Reese coincidentally had 6.5 sacks last season to Styles 0.5 sacks.
The strange thing is that there looks to be a LOT of quality ILB prospects in this upcoming draft. Walter Footfall has 13 rated (Reese #1 & Styles #2) and ALL OF THEM are big (smallest is 230 lbs; biggest 248 lbs). The only 2 rated as Rnd 1 prospects are Reese & Styles, so there should be some quality ILBs available in Rnds 2-3. One guy who’s intriguing is Keyshaun Elliott from Arizona State (6’2″ & 235 lbs with 4.67 speed). This past year he had 98 tackles & 7 sacks. In 2024 he had 111 tackles & 2.5 sacks, plus 6 PDs. Walter classifies him as ‘a dangerous blitzer’. He could probably be had in Rnd 3.
February 6th, 2026 at 12:05 pm
Jacob Rodriguez will walk onto the field and take over our defense as a rookie. His history screams difference maker. I would no way take a chance that he makes it to us in the second round. Absolutely ought to make him our first pick. And he could be our backup QB. 3rd ranked QB coming out of high school. He’s a great football player through and through and he’d fit like a glove on our team. His wife is a Blackhawk chopper pilot in the military. Holy cow, we need an upgrade at middle linebacker and we pass on him. Come on Bucs. Come on Jason. Make the call. If Todd isn’t on board with it tell him to kick rocks. Seriously.
February 6th, 2026 at 12:07 pm
I would think Jerry Jones would be more interested in an edge rushers myself. Mock drafts are useless at this time of year, but I’ve seen Styles pegged anywhere from top 5 to middle of second round. Somewhere in the middle of the first round seems most likely to me. I don’t know much about what other prospects might be available just yet. Lots of time before late April yet.
February 6th, 2026 at 12:35 pm
I would not trade up for styles but would take him if he is there. If he is gone I would actually trade back a few spots and then take best edge rusher and use the extra draft capital to trade up back into the late first or early second and grab Jacob Rodriguez and Lee Hunter.
Imagine a draft where we got Hunter Rodriguez and he good pass rusher for our top three picks! That plus some free agents he moves would completely revamp our front seven
February 6th, 2026 at 12:50 pm
The Bucs have to be all over this!!!
#No-Excuses!!!
Browns DC Jim Schwartz Resigns
February 6th, 2026 at 12:52 pm
If Styles falls that would be terrific. However given the fact he’s shown he can also rush the passer when given the opportunity I don’t see how he gets out of the top 10.
If that’s the case I’d prefer to get one of these edge rushers and get Rodriguez in the second (if he makes it that far) rather than try to trade up. We need middle round picks for the defense.
I know, Bowles has no clue how to use edge rushers but I’m assuming he’s gone by kickoff in September of ‘27.
February 6th, 2026 at 1:05 pm
This draft is absolutely loaded with edge rushers and ILBs. Blaine, Mesador, Howell, Reese, Styles, CJ Allen and Jacob Rodriguez. Also Kayden McDonald is a stud DT that may be available as well. Let’s hope Licht doesn’t screw this draft up.
February 6th, 2026 at 1:08 pm
@ DR – I like Reese, too! I would take him and then, either CJ Allen or Anthony Hill Jr. back-to-back with my first two picks & call it a day. Just say hell with it! Then, sign another one in FA. There’s no way that they could be worse than what we had last season, and at least we’d be set up well at the position for the future.
February 6th, 2026 at 1:20 pm
@Kenton,
Just watched highlights for J Rodriguez. You are right, that kid is a pure football player and thrives on big plays. Would LOVE to have him on the Bucs. 3 INT’s plus an offensive rushing TD as a wildcat QB? Good stuff. Versatile and loves to play football!
February 6th, 2026 at 1:23 pm
“”browns DC Jim Schwartz Resigns””
f
Fire our DC and hire Schwartz.
February 6th, 2026 at 1:27 pm
Sonny Styles is a must have linebacker worth trading up to get. Probably need to get to #10 to get him. Some kind of a package where Bucs give 1st round 2026, 2nd round 2027. In return, get #10 pick 2026 and 3rd round 2027.
February 6th, 2026 at 1:28 pm
I agree with C-3Span I think Cashius Howell needs to to the pick at 15 an you can get a LB in the 2nd I think the Deepest positions in the Draft this year are OLB an ILB which is great for the Bucs but I think Howell has Star All over him he’s so Fast his get off an Bend are Sick I would Draft Cashius then if go after a LB I really like Jacob Rodriguez an he should be there in the 2nd shoot Bucs might be able to Get CJ Allen in the 2nd imagine adding Howell an one of those 2 LBs to this defense An if the Bucs can add Boye Mafe in Free agency now they hace Depth an Quality Rotation at Pass Rusher I’m Really Holding out Hope Praying Braswell Can Put it together this year its year 3 Bowles needs to let his Pass Rushers just Rush the passer its wild that he gives them so much extra responsibility instead of just letting them play fast an Rush the Passer there are a Ton of Guys to choice from an You can go LB 1st an Pass Rusher 2nd if Styles is available in round 1 or go With Howell at 15 if Styles is gone an draft Rodriguez Allen Hill in the 2nd so many ways
February 6th, 2026 at 1:45 pm
We desperately need edge, so lets trade up in the first for a ILB.
If he’s BPA and there, sure, I’ve heard edge is deep, but trading up.. c’mon
ILB is deep too and the FA ILB class looks way better than the Edge one
February 6th, 2026 at 1:52 pm
D-Rok. He’s the best football player in the draft. He won’t make it to our second round pick. And I know he scored more than once offensively. He’s as good at punching balls loose as anybody I’ve ever seen. Bunches of sacks, can come off the edge, reads the plays so much quicker than Styles does. Gipper, have you watched his film? He’s better than Styles. I’m pretty sure.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:03 pm
Just imagine how good he’ll be after Todd coaches him up!
February 6th, 2026 at 2:03 pm
Kenton Smith … ‘Jacob Rodriguez will walk onto the field and take over our defense as a rookie.’
Rodriquez is intriguing because of the stats he compiled last season (128 tackles, 7 FF, 4 INT, 1 sack, 6 PD) but not as a MLB. Playing in a 3-4 defense could be problematic because he’s not super fast (4.68 sec in 40) nor is he all that big (6’1″ & 230 lbs). But in a 4-3 he’d probably excel.
If we can’t get Reese or Styles, I think I’d next prefer Anthony Holl from Texas (6’3″ & 235 lbs with 4.55 speed) projected to go in Rnds 2-3. Last year he had 70 tackles, 3 FF, 2 INT & 1 PD, but in 2024 he really excelled with 113 tackles, 8 sacks, 1 INT & 1 PD. Did well as a freshman too in 2023 getting 67 tackles, 5 sacks, 2 PD.
Further down the line (Rnds 3-5) I like Keyshaun Elliott from Arizona State (6’2″ & 235 lbs with 4.68 speed). Had a decent 2025 (98 tackles with 7 sacks) and a very good 2023 (111 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 1 FF & 6 PD). He’s got MLB size and is decribed as ‘a dangerous blitzer’. Could fit right in here.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:12 pm
Three in one year is asking too much.
I’m not convinced at all that Lavonte David is retiring this year.
But if we bring in 3 new ILBs, we’d be lucky to get one pass rusher…which I think is more important this year.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:15 pm
If he is there at 15 take him. I think Tampa should double up on LBs in the draft. I would say 1st round and 3rd. Now if he’s not there at 15 I still think you take the best defensive player on the board or trade back. IF that happens I would think the Bucs would target CJ Allen if they trade back into picks 20-25.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:18 pm
Daryl Green Says:
“News flash we never wrap up…”
I agree…but the NFL is considering adding penalties for wrapping up. Last year, they fined players for it.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:20 pm
we need an ILB and this kid is talented…we just dont need a ILB in the 1st round…
what good is a 1st round stud ILB if baker is “hurt” AND we cant run the ball?
who wants to see michael jordan & haggard starting games & protecting baker?
Mauch wont be 100% in 2026….ask Sua Opeta…
BUCS need to treat the OL situation just as they did last years WR situation….Godwin was injured and his target goal was week1…we still drafted EE2 in the first round….Mauch is injured, his target goal is week1 but we should still go draft an OG in the first round…
at the very least we improve our OL depth with quality talent and get rid of Haggard
GO BUCS!!!!
February 6th, 2026 at 2:22 pm
Defense rule says, J-Rod has the “it” factor! Football intellect is at the highest level, quick to learn, hard hitter with great anticipation! He would be a great 4th or 5th level choice .
February 6th, 2026 at 2:23 pm
“As of the 2024–2026 seasons, the NFL penalizes specific types of “wrapping up” in tackles, most notably the hip-drop tackle. This foul occurs when a defender wraps up the runner, swivels/rotates their hips, and drops their weight onto the runner’s legs. It results in a 15-yard personal foul penalty.”
Because the refs have trouble detecting whether it is a Proper wrap up, it’s predicted a lot of false penalties will be called.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:24 pm
Bonzai- Even if he’s not retiring (I agree with you), they need to act like he is.
February 6th, 2026 at 2:56 pm
How about we trade up and go get a Ruben Bain jr that’s the kinda player we need up front time to start getting nasty where the party starts up front‼️ If not get the best available backer and then after push for Mesidor is he slides another beast on the edge.
Get some dawgs in here Jason licht‼️
February 6th, 2026 at 3:05 pm
Fortunately, there are a number of soon-to-be FA & draft options available that could fix the Bucs LB situation… & several will not break the bank, even if there is a pursuit of Crosby by trade. (Which I still regard as highly unlikely as I can’t see Licht tossing 26 & 27 1st rd picks + other draft capital & a PTBNL into the deal.)
I love Styles but I am not sure how Bucs can get into position to draft him without trading up & giving extra picks to do it…(Which Licht is unlikely to do)…WTS, I see UGA LB CJ Allen &/or ALA LB Deontae Lawson as solid scheme & play style fits for Tampa. (Allen would be after a trade down scenario &Lawson an option Day 2)
FA which is where I really really think that Licht should focus attention to restock the LB room.
Start by creating $35M+ in extra FA spending space by restructuring Wirfs & Goedeke’s deals, as they are 100% in the long-term plan…Giving Licht & Co. >$51M cap room for FA & signing of draft picks later in the off-season.
As I have stated on this board for weeks…My FA ILB options 1a / 1b that I would urge the FO to go get in FA are Nakobe Dean-PHI…& Quay Walker-GB.
Pair those 2 up & BUCS ILB rotation is set for the next 4yrs… Both likely cost the Bucs <$20M aav in total salary – combined. ($8-9M/yr for each)
I would project Dean to get 4yr-$33M & Walker 4yrs-$40M)…Which is not a bad price tag to fill the Bucs LB need until the 2030 season. Both are only 25, so Bucs would be buying their prime production years.
My #3 FA ILB Option would be a 2yr flier on Germaine Pratt if Bucs were to lose out on one of the above…Pratt (29) is still highly productive & at a very reasonable price tag… 2yrs-$7-8M with performance/roster bonuses included.
The above does not break the bank & leaves very ample Cap Space maneuvering to allow Licht to also focus on Pass Rushers – EDGE / OLB in FA.
My FA OLB Option A – A guy I'm beating the table for if I'm in the FA planning meetings is OLB Azeez Ojulari (25) – who fell out of favor & was injured in PHI after a productive tenure with the NYG…It would not take Big Money to get him as it would be a "prove it" deal in 2026 to reset his market & gain PT….But I would roll dice on a 2yr pact somewhere in the 2yrs-$7.5M range w/ additional performance bonus escalators to incentivize production on the field …Which would get the deal done quickly.
(Bucs could get 2yrs cheaper than your average BU role player – less money than Anthony Nelson!!! Which is worth the risk.)
OLB Option B – K'Lavon Chaisson….A guy I have also been pounding the table for the past 2yrs…The 26yr old former JAX 1st rd pick that was tragically misused by former Jags staff as a DE vs OLB…He just had his breakout season with the PATS after getting his hand out of the dirt & a fair shake at PT as a stand up pass rusher…. Chassion will likely cost = similar AAV money to what I mentioned for Dean & Walker above….In the 3yrs-$27M to 4yrs-$38M…Nothing too crazy.
Hell, All 5 targets mentioned above – Dean, Walker, Pratt, Chiasson & Ojulari – would cost around $32-33M in total 2026 compensation…Meaning that it is 100% financially feasible to sign all 5 of those guys & pair with who's already on the roster under contract…The FO could completely reshape the DEF Front 7 & get it back on the right track immediately.
That would also leave money to allow Licht to target a few more areas of lesser need in FA & save coin for signing the 2026 draft class.
February 6th, 2026 at 3:48 pm
I would cry if we ended up with the Oregon TE & drafted a LB in rounds 2 & 3
February 6th, 2026 at 3:49 pm
Wouldn’t cry
February 6th, 2026 at 3:59 pm
This is why I was beating the draft jahid Campbell drum so hard last offseason. Idk how he did for Philly last year but Joe was all bent on him missing some games cause of his injury. Yea that really mattered lol go get a stud ILB and a few nasty edge rushers and a big nasty to pair with vea. Fix the front seven and this defense takes a huge step in the right direction
February 6th, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Don’t move up. If he’s there, he’s there. Otherwise trade down in the first 2 rounds. Can end up with 6 picks in the top 96 or so players…
February 6th, 2026 at 4:07 pm
Do that and catcard’s plan above and you can take 2 DT’s relatively early in the draft and completely retool the defense and get another corner/guard too.
February 6th, 2026 at 4:09 pm
if somehow you walk out of the draft with sonny and j-rod, you did well…licht should really try to make that happen somehow…
swindle away max fuzzby from spytek, tommy b and the raiders…
somehow, someway hit on an edge…we gotta somehow hit on an affordable piece at edge from this draft too…draft 2 more edges if need be
February 6th, 2026 at 4:13 pm
It’s an awful scheme that needs to be replaced. Maybe next year, if Lovie Bowles soils the bed again.
February 6th, 2026 at 5:00 pm
I suggest those of you who like J-Rod to go and either watch non-highlight film and read at least 2 years of his scouting report.
I wouldn’t draft him over Anthony Hill, who’s a much better athlete with more range and damn sure wouldn’t draft him 15th overall. That’d be a reach, also please keep in mind, the combine process is going to seperate the college production from the pro potential.
Not saying Rodriguez is a bad player, but he’s not keeping up with pro TEs in the seem size/speed wise defending seam routes and he’s getting cooked taking angles or keeping up with RBs in the flats.
The plan is to get players who strengths line up with what we’re trying to do/improve as a defense.
Also curious to see if Bowles breaks from the ILB he archetype of about 6’0 tall, 225-235lbs athletes and goes after one of these LBs that come with lengthier frames and enough speed/quickness/smarts to cover sideline to sideline.
I can’t remember the kids name off the top of my head, but that USC defense had an off ball backer that was 6’6, first thing I thought is he either loves football or is a mediocre hooper
February 6th, 2026 at 5:15 pm
First 3 picks should be DE, DT, and ILB. In reality, I would like the Bucs to take Styles at 15 if he’s there and trade both this year and next year #2 to get back to #25 in the 1st rd to get a DE. Love Howell, but there are also a couple others and I believe at least one of them will drop. What happened the last time the Bucs had two #1 picks? Sapphire and Brooks
February 6th, 2026 at 6:00 pm
Joe is done with SirVocea Dennis as an NFL starting inside linebacker. His first two years he was injury-prone. Last year he was lack-of-talent prone. Move on.
———
I disagree with that – he’s acceptable as a starter. If they can upgrade, then by all means do so, and I have no issues with taking 3 ILBs as the Bucs need depth, but Dennis was fine for most of the year, just trapped in a bad system. Dennis, by the end of the year, was playing a lot better, and if David does in fact retire, they’re going to need Dennis on the field – at the very least until new players get up to speed.
February 6th, 2026 at 6:06 pm
Lavonte is probably waiting to see how the coaching staff, draft, and possibly FA stack up. Even if he retires, I think the Bucs can get him out of retirement if things are trending up and not down. I doubt Lavonte wants to go out on a losing streak to end his career. This year he was dealing with an undisclosed injury which made him look slower than what he would have liked to display. He will be back at some point. I still think his experience to bridge the gap with any rookie we draft will be invaluable. Just like Mike and Chris are invaluable to our WR room. Both will be back. Mike’s wife and kids are the x-factors in keeping him in Tampa.
Could money be spent more wisely? Most definitely. But, you’ll have a bunch of greenhorns with deer lights trying to navigate the NFL. This team is still on the cusp of a deep playoff push. As long as Robinson can camouflage Toilet Bowls defense.
If we can get an Edge and a LB, watch this defense turn around. The backend is just gassed trying to cover for an inept pass rush.
February 6th, 2026 at 6:12 pm
Oh, btw, Liam “El Serpiente” Coen is a POS. Anyone who tuned in to WDAE SB coverage yesterday knows why. F him. Can’t wait for the Bucs to play the Jagoffs. There will be blood.
February 6th, 2026 at 6:14 pm
WBL. He’s in fact an excellent coverage linebacker. He sees the game from a QB perspective. He’s just a better football player than these guys who are bigger and or faster. Watch 10 minutes of his film and 10 minutes of Styles highlight reels. Trust your eyes and get back to me.
February 6th, 2026 at 6:15 pm
They will probably draft another wr in the first round lol #!!
February 6th, 2026 at 6:35 pm
Bucs have the right man as head coach. He’s proven it every year.
February 6th, 2026 at 7:04 pm
Munch has jerked himself off so much he’s gone blind.
I can’t unsee Dennis running down the sideline with Jalen Hurts running right behind him for 40 yards.
On any event, It doesn’t really matter who we draft on defense as long as Todd Bowles is the coach
February 6th, 2026 at 7:08 pm
I ignore your threads with ‘Comments Off’ Useless babble.
February 6th, 2026 at 7:45 pm
KentonSmith,
Get your point about Jacob Rodriguez. He has a great nose for the ball and is rarely out of position. My biggest caveat is speed. He is measured at 4.70 in the 40. The Bucs defense is painfully slow. Styles at 4.51 is a better fit. Depends on whether he would still be around at #15. Doubt it which means Bucs try to get to #10 or look beyond Styles. Looks like there will be plenty of good LB options in 2nd round .Having watched running backs run away all last season from our LB’s and AWJr., Bucs defense needs speed. A 4.70 LB just can’t cut it in today’s NFL.
February 6th, 2026 at 7:59 pm
Jacob Rodriguez, Kyle Louis, Red Murdock, Jack Kelly, CJ Allen.
February 6th, 2026 at 8:00 pm
Aiden Fisher would be another one, too!
February 6th, 2026 at 8:17 pm
Give them Dean and anything else they want.
February 6th, 2026 at 8:30 pm
@ Gipper Says: “Sonny Styles is a must have linebacker worth trading up to get. Probably need to get to #10 to get him. Some kind of a package where Bucs give 1st round 2026, 2nd round 2027. In return, get #10 pick 2026 and 3rd round 2027.”
You’re not getting that deal going from #15 into the Top-10. They’d be lucky to get back a 2027 4th in this scenario. Real Lucky. If I was going to do it it would have to involve 2026-picks ONLY. I’m NOT doing ANYTHING with my 2027-picks, unless it is to IMPROVE my 2027 draft position. A 2nd-Round Pick in 2027, would’ve been a 1st-Round Pick in 2026. Also, the Bengals could be real good next season, and their 3rd-Rounder could very well end up being LATE 3rd-Round (like pick #87), and the Bucs most definitely will be EARLY 2nd-Round (say 36th). You’re talking THE ‘all-time’ MOST LOADED Draft-Class EVER, in the history of the NFL, since they started grading-out drafts back in the 1960’s – per Todd McShay.
So, there’s NO WAY you’d want to do that, even if you could. Plus, you’d be LUCKY getting a 3rd back to begin with. More than likely, it would be a 4th or possibly even a 5th, in order to trade into the top-10. Ya know, this is not some late 1st-round pick that we’re talking about here, like around #28 or something. Regardless, I’m not touching ANY of my 2027’s, unless it involves IMPROVING THEM. This free-agency RB class is stocked FULL. I’m grabbing one there, AND an experienced Guard and Corner. I’m getting YOUNG, ATHLETIC, MAD, and FAST upfront.
But, I would go LB, LB with my first ‘TWO picks’ (unless a top EDGE falls)… And, I would trade up on for the second one, as soon as the 4th of my top 5-LB’s are gone. I’m going to do everything I can to land ‘TWO’ of my top-5 LB’s, that doesn’t involve weakening ANY of my 2027-picks. If I can land one of the top 2-3 EDGE’s at #15, then I’m going to do it! For my 2nd-Pick, I’m going to trade UP once my ‘fourth highest’ rated LB is off the board. In that scenario, I’m then looking top rated/best fit at LB or DT with my 3rd-Pick. And, vice-versa with my 4th. I’m loading TF UP on my front-7 in BOTH, free agency AND the draft. QUALITY over Quantity, too! I’m NOT just standing pat and sitting on my picks. And, then try ‘selling-it’ later on that everything just fell perfectly in our laps (character/fit/choir boys/etc). BS. I don’t know WTF Lickt was even thinking during last years draft!? Actually, I never know WTF he’s thinking. Probably, because HE DOESN’T THINK.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:09 pm
@ Gipper Says: “Get your point about Jacob Rodriguez. He has a great nose for the ball and is rarely out of position. My biggest caveat is speed. He is measured at 4.70 in the 40. The Bucs defense is painfully slow.”
Another caveat… Played against BIG-12 Competition. The level of play gap between the Power-2 versus the Power-4 is ever growing. Texas Tech might have the $$$$ to stay relevant, but that’s NOT the case for the rest of the BIG-12 and ACC (unfortunately). So, the level of competition is just not comparable top-to-bottom. That, along with his speed, should push him on down the board in this draft. He’ll prob still be available, when the Bucs pick in the 2nd. Quite possibly even, early 3rd. He has A LOT riding on his combine. He could possibly play his way into being a late 1st. But, as of right now this very minute, he’s looking a lot more like a mid 2nd to early 3rd. Again, it’s all going to come down to his combine. I’m sticking with “POWER-2” Players ONLY, for at least 90% of the time. Especially, upfront.
“Get some dawgs in here Jason licht‼️“
J-Lickt wouldn’t know what a DAWG was if it ‘licked him’ in the FACE.
February 6th, 2026 at 9:24 pm
Forget Crosby. It makes ZERO SENSE. Especially, having to give-up a 2027 1st or 2nd (great possibility of being a top 5-10 pick). Crosby is a SUPER BOWL MOVE. This Bucs team is NOT a “Super Bowl” team WITH CROSBY, nor anywhere EVEN CLOSE. A draft similar to ATL’s last season would be a HUGE WIN. Just cannot afford trading away ANY of our next year’s picks like they did. But, ATL did last year, s what I was expecting the Bucs to do. You have to remember, they freaking NAILED their 3rd, too!!!! They got a little unlucky with Jalon Walker’s injury in training camp that really held him back and nagged him all year long. But, he’s STILL only 21-YEARS OLD believe-it or not, and is a FREAK. Shew. MAN. Just think IF we could’ve had THAT Draft, and then added BIG BAD Deone Walker to it in the 4th… JUST. OH. MY. GODDDDD.
February 6th, 2026 at 10:00 pm
Its looking like 27 will be a rebuild and not a re load. Theres just so many
Needs. Mostly on defense. And a rb and productive TE. Licht has missed on
Way to many early picks the past 5 years and its really starting to show.
Their likely not to get any of the top 5 defensive players with the 15th pick
And we all know licht wont trade up.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:16 pm
Gipper. WBL says look at his non-highlight film. Fair enough. Look at everybody’s non highlight film. Nobody’s winning every battle. Far from it. Who’s got the best football IQ? Who makes the most plays. Name one linebacker in the country who had more interceptions or more tackles or more forced fumbles. Better believe he’s got a nose for the ball. His highlight films are longer than other linebackers because he makes more big plays than other linebackers. And on non-highlight film he’s hustling every step. As far as speed goes, he’s not a receiver. But he sure is special in coverage because as a QB he reads those backs and tight ends. He’s the best coverage linebacker I’ve seen and for good measure he’s an explosive tackler. He may last til the second round but I wouldn’t bet on it.
February 6th, 2026 at 11:59 pm
Yes 3, and don’t forget 1 head coach as well.
February 7th, 2026 at 12:32 am
Well first, it’s not a Styles or Rodriguez matter to me. I’m not painting myself into that type of corner. There are about 8 different ILBs in this class I wouldn’t mind being added to this roster.
That said, Rodriguez is a good ball player, but he’s also his own question marks. Namely, whether or not all he’s put on film translate to the rises in speed and talent he’ll play in the NFL. Not to mention his sizez
and as an off ball ILB how that’ll translate to guards getting paws on him in the 2nd level.
Styles has his own knocks/?’s as well, over-aggressive/undisciplined eyes. Grabby tackler but what he is athletically is younger, bigger, stronger and much faster at a positon that’s not as coveted in the first round in comparison.
Put it like this, the high IQ of Rodriguez is what makes him Top-5/7 at the position, BUT the athleticism that comes with Styles is what makes him a top 10-15 overall pick.
I’d be happy with either player, but not with the same pick. Say we’re there at 15th overall and Styles is gone, Rodriguez is obviously available and so is Cassius Howell. I’m picking Howell, because OLB talent in the first is a higher value selection than an ILB if it doesn’t come with what Styles or Reese bring being 6’4, 4.4-4.5 speed and an abundance of athleticism.
Can’t fall in love with these guys Kenton. Unless, it’s Jack Strand or Landon Robinson ‘26 lol
February 7th, 2026 at 5:12 am
if jrod is really a 4.70 speed, you probably have to pass or take him in the 3rd round if he’s still miraculously sitting there…
he has that nose for the football, but if he can’t get to the football at the pro level, at 4.70, then you just can’t grab him…
we witnessed it with britt the past couple of years and i think britt was a little faster than a 4,70
February 7th, 2026 at 5:28 am
also during the year it was like mums the word on here, while i’m watching our absolutely lovable legend lavonte getting roasted out there…
it was crickets…and i would search as i’d ponder to mention it occasionally…then after i lifted the rock, others started to sadly chime in…like we have so much respect that we couldn’t say a word about what was happening – for at least almost 2/3rds of the season…
the reason i bring this up is because everyone was all over dennis…big time…and yeah he’s like a 3rd backer in reality…but also……
yes i’m going to say it…
he looked worse because of what was going on around him…because lvd was losing more than a step, it actually did make dennis look even worse…
yeah it’s a hard reality as we all…simply put – love lavonte to death…but dennis was right next to a lot of bad football that didn’t help his status either…people need to digest that, because dennis was just a super easy guy to get on, with his limited tenure and prolific injury history…
yet with all being said…yes i do want lvd back for one more year – in a more limited role – but also out there strategically on some big play downs too – because even though he’s lost a few steps, his on field iq is that of a coach…and he can bring the younger core of soon to be newly arriving linebackers up to speed – no better coach to a youngster that a wiley ole vet who’s trying on gold jackets for sizing
February 7th, 2026 at 10:39 am
Tampabaybucfan Says
“I would cry if we ended up with the Oregon TE & drafted a LB in rounds 2 & 3”
If there is a good edge rusher when we pick in the first round, then he needs to be the pick.
Rounds 2-4 should be Offensive Guard, LB, then Edge Rusher again.
Round 5 should be LB again.
6 & 7 should be BPA
Free agency might change some things. Maybe.
February 7th, 2026 at 10:39 am
2027 needs a DT.
February 7th, 2026 at 1:26 pm
Styles is excellent. But you have to consider he had an incredible d-line in front of him. It doesn’t matter how good you are if the guards and center can just waltz out to the second level and take you out.
February 7th, 2026 at 1:45 pm
Ioane, my bad. the I doesnt appear correctly on the sites i was looking at…looked like a lower case l “L” l….laziness in typing is everywhere including me….im often working 10 hr days 7 per week so i miss a lot (notice that correct grammar of “a lot”instead of “alot” which most go with) bleh
February 8th, 2026 at 1:20 pm
Yawn yawn. They’ll pick the guy who is 3rd best and pass up on a guy who ends up being a future ball of famer because he smells like hot dog water. From what I can tell neither Licht nor Bowles knows how to evaluate and draft talent that can last on this team other than maybe offensive linemen. The only guy I can remember that they drafted not a lineman between the two is Chris Godwin and the only reason he isn’t great is because of injuries. To this date Licht hasn’t drafted nor developed a qb good enough to be a franchise qb to earn a 2nd contract. Look at New England, 2 horrible seasons drafted Drake with the 3rd pick and inside of one season got a new head coach, developed and put a very good team around him and now they’re in the Super Bowl. A 2nd year qb better than our 8th year veteran on his 4th team. Unless we get a GM who can evaluate, draft and sign talent properly we’ll always be has beens happy with winning a few NFC South titles with 10-7 records with middling qbs who excite their fans with a few great plays along the way. Then also our present head coach is part of that problem so what to do?