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yesterday

Buccaneers Complete Defense-Focused Draft to Address Key Weaknesses

Tampa Bay's 2025 draft class aims to rejuvenate a struggling defense with cornerback reinforcements and pass-rush depth after selecting a wide receiver in the first round.

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Notre Dame defensive back Benjamin Morrison (20, right) knocks the ball away from Louisville wide receiver Ja'Corey Brooks (1) during the first half of their Sept. 28 game last season in South Bend, Ind. (AP Photo/Michael Caterina)
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Overview

  • The Buccaneers selected Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka 19th overall, adding youth to an aging receiving corps featuring Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
  • Tampa Bay prioritized rebuilding its secondary with Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison (53rd overall) and Kansas State cornerback Jacob Parrish (84th overall).
  • Day 3 picks focused on bolstering the pass rush, bringing in edge rusher David Walker from Central Arkansas and defensive lineman Elijah Roberts from SMU.
  • General Manager Jason Licht and Coach Todd Bowles expect the draft class to help restore the defense's ability to generate turnovers and pressure, addressing last season's struggles.
  • Veteran defensive backs and linebackers now face increased competition for roster spots, potentially reshaping the team's depth chart ahead of the 2025 season.