2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech

It is never too early to evaluate safety depth for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently targeted versatile, physical defensive backs who can handle multiple roles, and Todd Bowles’ defensive structure depends on safeties who can impact both the run and pass game. Tampa Bay values defensive backs who can rotate into the box, communicate on the back end, and create disruption without sacrificing discipline.

While the Buccaneers may not be searching for an immediate starter, adding experienced depth with high-level production is always part of the long-term vision. We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on North Dakota State safety Cole Wisniewski.

Information

• School: Texas Tech
• Conference: Big 12
• Position: Safety
• Height Weight: 6-4, 220 pounds
• Class: Senior
• Hometown: Sparta, Wisconsin

Background

Wisniewski brings one of the more unique profiles in this class, combining FCS dominance with a successful transition to the Power Five level. After building a decorated career at North Dakota State, he transferred to Texas Tech for his final season, where he immediately stepped into a starting role and handled a full workload.

In 2025, Wisniewski started all 14 games for Texas Tech, totaling 78 tackles, six tackles for loss, one sack, six pass breakups, and multiple forced turnovers. He was one of the top defensive backs on the roster and played a key role in a defense that limited explosive plays and excelled against the run.

Prior to his time at Texas Tech, Wisniewski established himself as one of the top defensive players at the FCS level. In 2023, he earned consensus All-American honors after recording 92 tackles and leading all of Division I with eight interceptions. His ability to consistently generate turnovers and impact games made him one of the most productive safeties in the country.

Across his career, Wisniewski has demonstrated a rare combination of size, production, and versatility, while also earning recognition for his academic achievements and leadership.

Notable Stats from 2025

• 808 total snaps
• 501 coverage snaps
• 83.9 overall defensive grade
• 56 tackles
• 10.6 percent missed tackle rate
• 27 defensive stops
• 3 pass breakups
• 86.1 NFL passer rating allowed

In 2023 at North Dakota State, Wisniewski posted an elite 93.0 defensive grade across 688 snaps, including a 91.8 coverage grade, highlighting his peak performance as a ballhawk.

Skills

• Elite size for the safety position
• Physical presence in run support
• High-level ball production in previous seasons
• Versatile alignment across box and deep roles
• Strong instincts in zone coverage
• Reliable tackler with solid technique
• Experience against multiple levels of competition
• High football IQ and leadership traits

Wisniewski stands out immediately with his size. At 6-4 and 220 pounds, he brings a linebacker-like frame to the safety position while still maintaining enough mobility to function in coverage. His physicality shows up consistently, especially when playing downhill in the run game.

In coverage, Wisniewski relies on instincts and awareness. His 2023 season at North Dakota State showcased elite ball production, and while that level of turnover generation did not fully carry over in 2025, the underlying traits remain. He reads quarterbacks well, positions himself effectively, and can close on the ball with purpose.

As a run defender, he is active and reliable. He fills lanes with authority, uses his frame to finish tackles, and contributes consistently near the line of scrimmage. His ability to handle a high snap count at Texas Tech shows durability and trust from the coaching staff.

His experience across both the FCS and Power Five levels adds to his appeal. He has proven he can produce in different environments and adjust to increased competition.

Player Summary

Cole Wisniewski projects as a late Day 2/ early Day 3 selection with a unique blend of size, experience, and production. His profile fits teams looking for a physical, versatile safety who can contribute in multiple roles.

In Tampa Bay, Wisniewski would project as a rotational safety with immediate value on special teams and sub-packages. His size and physicality align well with Todd Bowles’ defensive philosophy, particularly in roles that require support against the run and flexibility in coverage.

Long term, Wisniewski has the tools to develop into a situational starter. If he can continue to refine his coverage consistency against higher-level athletes, his combination of size, instincts, and experience gives him a strong chance to outperform his draft position and become a valuable piece in an NFL secondary.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report on Texas Tech S Cole Wisniewski