What were the Bucs best and worst picks in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered the 2026 NFL draft focused on building around Baker Mayfield while continuing to strengthen the roster for another NFC South title push. General manager Jason Licht once again prioritized athletic traits, versatility, and long-term upside throughout Tampa Bay's impressive draft class. Tampa added seven talented and athletic players to the roster.

Rueben Bain Jr.'s arm length caused a notable slide, and the professional pass rusher slid into Todd Bowles hands. The Bucs added Bain Jr. in the first round, inside linebacker Josiah Trotter in the second round, receiver Ted Hurst in the third, defensive back Keionte Scott in the fourth, defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart with the 155th pick in the fifth round, guard Billy Schrauth with the 160th pick in the fifth, and Sharp in the sixth. Scott has the versatility to play nickel, safety, or line up at outside corner. Hurst dominated the Senior Bowl and may have been a first-round prospect had he starred in the SEC rather than at Georgia State in college.

Like most draft classes, however, not every pick carried the same level of certainty. Some selections felt like ideal fits capable of making immediate impacts, while others raised questions about value, positional need, or developmental timelines. CBS Sports examined the new addition for all 32 NFL teams. Here's an early look at the Buccaneers' best and worst picks from the 2026 NFL draft.

Best pick: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Round 1, pick 15)