ESPN’s latest rankings highlight Tampa Bay’s defensive overhaul, spotlighting a prolific rookie pass rusher and a veteran linebacker tasked with anchoring the unit following legendary departures.
ESPN has tabbed Rueben Bain Jr. and Alex Anzalone as two top-50 additions throughout this offseason by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Bain ranked just outside the top 10, coming in at 11th, below Buffalo Bills wide receiver DJ Moore. Appearing as the second-named rookie after Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs is high praise for a first-round pick.
He was touted as a top 10 pick in this year's draft, but fell because of his historically short arms (30 7/8 inches) and his involvement in a fatal 2024 car accident. When it was time for Tampa Bay to choose at No. 15, Bain was the clear choice.
The former Miami Hurricane addressed the team's pass-rushing need. Tampa Bay's defense posted a 5.8% sack rate last season (ranked 23rd), which was the lowest by a Todd Bowles-led defense since the New York Jets in 2017.
Bowles has sung his rookie's praises since he joined the Buccaneers. He complimented Bain's efficiency, saying he never wastes steps and understands when to use his hands against offensive linemen.
He fits what Bowles' defense needs to pressure the quarterback often. Bain led the FBS in pressures (83) and recorded 9.5 sacks, including five in the College Football Playoffs last season.
Versatility is an underrated skill in Bain's arsenal, and Bowles could use it to confuse offenses next season.
"In Bowles' defense, look for Bain to seize one-on-one opportunities, be used on loops/stunts and create interior matchups as a nickel/dime defensive tackle," ESPN senior writer Matt Bowen wrote.
Anzalone ranked 49th on the list. While it is second-to-last, he provides Tampa Bay with much-needed linebacker depth after Lavonte David's retirement.
David was one of the best run-stoppers at the linebacker position, finishing his career with 169 tackles for loss. The 12-time team captain also fared well in coverage, recording 14 interceptions and 74 passes defended.
Anzalone provides a similar skill set, albeit at a much lower efficiency. The former Detroit Lion ranked 21st in Pro Football Focus coverage grade at 65.2 with eight pass breakups last season and is quick to diagnose and contain the run game.
Tampa Bay was the fifth-best run defense, allowing 99.1 yards per game. Expect similar production with the additions of Bain and Anzalone.
The Buccaneers didn't have the splashiest offseason, unlike some teams that acquired superstar names. In fact, they lost two legends.
But they bounced back by prioritizing defensive depth to address a weakness and mitigate the loss of David. That could lead to a playoff return next season after injuries cooled the team down, and crown them as NFC South division kings.
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