2026 NFL Draft Round 1: Buccaneers select Rueben Bain, Jr. 15th overall

TL;DR

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected EDGE rusher Rueben Bain, Jr. 15th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bain, from the University of Miami, was recognized as the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2025.

Key points

Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Rueben Bain, Jr. 15th overall
Bain is an EDGE rusher from the University of Miami
He was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2025
Bain recorded 52 tackles and 9.5 sacks in his final season
He fits well in the Buccaneers' aggressive defensive scheme

Mentioned in this story

University of Miami

Tampa Bay BuccaneersRueben Bain, Jr.

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) rushes the line during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially made their selection in the NFL Draft, adding a new piece to their roster as they look to strengthen key areas throughout the draft. With several needs entering the first round tonight, the 15th pick reflects the team’s focus on building for both immediate impact and long-term success heading into the upcoming season. And that pick is EDGE rusher Rueben Bain, Jr. from the University of Miami. Bain emerged as one of college football’s most disruptive defenders at the University of Miami, capping his career with a dominant 2025 campaign. That season, he totaled 52 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, and added an interception and forced fumble, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors. Across his collegiate career, Bain recorded roughly 121 tackles, 33.5 tackles for loss, and 20.5 sacks, showcasing consistent backfield production. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Bain projects as a natural fit in Todd Bowles’ aggressive scheme. His ability to win with power, collapse pockets, and generate pressure without heavy blitzing makes him ideal for Bowles’ front, where versatility and disruption up front are critical.

Q&A

Who did the Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers drafted EDGE rusher Rueben Bain, Jr. 15th overall.

What were Rueben Bain, Jr.'s college football stats at Miami?

In his final season, Bain recorded 52 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and 15.5 tackles for loss.

How does Rueben Bain, Jr. fit into the Buccaneers' defensive scheme?

Bain is expected to excel in Todd Bowles' aggressive scheme due to his ability to generate pressure and collapse pockets.