Bucs' 2026 Rookie Class Shines with Josiah Trotter, Rueben Bain

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made key additions in the 2026 NFL Draft with a high-value first-rounder and a versatile second-rounder. With Rueben Bain falling to 15th overall and Josiah Trotter selected in the second round, the Bucs addressed their defensive needs while adding upside. The rookie class also includes a potential bust in Ted Hurst and a future depth piece in DeMonte Capehart.

Josiah Trotter, a Missouri linebacker, was picked in the second round and is expected to compete for a starting role. At 6'4" and 245 pounds, Trotter brings physicality and downhill power to the middle of the defense. Over his final two seasons, he totaled 277 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. His ability to set the edge and his instincts in run support make him a valuable complement to free-agent addition Alex Anzalone. While he needs to develop in pass coverage, his pro potential is high.

Ted Hurst, a 6'4", 215-pound receiver from Georgia State, was selected in the third round. Hurst ran a 4.43 40-yard dash and averaged 16.5 yards per catch in college. His size and speed make him a dangerous deep threat, but his lack of physicality after the catch raises concerns. With only 13 career contested catches in college, he must improve his strength and route running to avoid becoming a bust.

Rueben Bain, the first-rounder from Miami, fell to the 15th pick due to off-field concerns. At 6'4" and 280 pounds, Bain is a disruptive force in the run game and a reliable interior pass-rush threat. In 2025, he recorded 54 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. Though he may not be a 10-sack player, Bain’s versatility as a three-technique and edge rusher makes him a perfect fit for Todd Bowles’ defense. His slide to 15th was a steal for Tampa Bay.

DeMonte Capehart, a fifth-round pick from Clemson, is expected to provide depth at defensive tackle. At 6'2" and 320 pounds, Capehart is a mauler in the run game and a potential rotational piece behind Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey. He recorded 43 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 2025, showing promise as a situational player.

With the draft in the books, the Buccaneers now turn their attention to training camp. The rookie class will look to make an impact as the Bucs aim to remain competitive in the NFC.