Rueben Bain Jr. is going to have a big year alongside Tampa's new-look defensive front. See where he ranks on the latest rookie list.
While training camp can be deceiving, early indications show that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defensive haul through the 2026 NFL Draft was successful, with multiple rookie talents turning heads in training camp.
Rueben Bain Jr., who slipped to Tampa at the No. 15 overall pick, has looked the part as an instant impact player on the defensive line.
Despite not playing in the Bucs' first preseason contest against the New York Jets over the weekend, Bain dominated the two joint practice sessions, recording multiple sacks against first-round talent on the offensive line.
On Thursday, Bleacher Report released an updated list of the top rookies in the class, with Bain coming in at the No. 6 spot.
"Bain's lack of length was a hot topic of discussion last year and led to him sliding in the draft a bit despite being one of the most disruptive defensive players in College Football. The Miami product's ability to turn speed to power as a pass-rusher and make plays as a run defender should help him overcome any physical limitations in year one, though," the scouting department noted. "Plus, it helps that the Buccaneers have been looking for an edge defender opposite Yaya Diaby for a few years, so Bain should get plenty of opportunities to play and be impactful as a rookie."
At the end of the college football season, Bain was seen as a contender for the No. 1 overall pick, but concerns surrounding his arm length and measurables dropped his stock.
Nevertheless, Bain was touted as one of the steals of the draft, and has made a strong impression on the front office and his teammates throughout OTAs.
Last season, Tampa's pass rush was among the bottom of the league, with a 19.8-percent pressure rate, per Pro Football Reference, ranking No. 25 in the NFL.
At Miami, Bain was a menace in pass rush, notching 15.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks.
His 92.5 overall PFF defensive grade in the 2025 season ranked third among 852 qualified edge defenders.
In mid-July, former Bucs Super Bowl-winning head coach Jon Gruden joined the 95.7 WDAE radio show to talk about Bain and what he expects from him this season.
"Well, I think he can be a double-digit sack guy," Gruden said. "Now, some of the analytical people are scared of him because of his arm length and some of that stuff. I think he's a double-digit sack guy."
Against the run, Bain recorded 29 solo tackles and forced two fumbles, adding an interception in pass protection and displaying his versatility.
Bain's aggressiveness on the line and in pursuit is something that has stood out in early practice sessions, as one coach was even seen telling the rookie to take it easy on the team's equipment.
The Bucs' young defensive front will have it's hands full following the departure of Bucs legend linebacker Lavonte David, but with the combination of talent in the room, expect the pass rush to be much-improved.
