Bucs' Defense Revival: Trade Up or Down?

0:00It's April 20th. From your city to your ears, this is Tampa Bay News today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are zeroing in on their defense for the NFL draft, holding the 15th overall pick their highest since grabbing tackle. Tristan Werffs at number 13, back in 2020. After a quiet free agency where they signed vets like Al-Qaedaim Muhammad and Ashahn Robinson, the team needs young blood to build a solid front. Top priority is a premier pass rusher in what looks like a deep class at edge. General manager Jason Lycht is playing it flexible, open to trading down for more picks, or even up if the right deal hits, but he loves stacking early, round selections like they did in 2022. Those moves landed guys like Logan Hall, though results have been mixed, and now they're plotting every scenario to avoid missing out on talent. Fans and analysts see the impact of losing linebacker Lavante David to retirement, leaving holes across the defensive line, secondary, and off-ball. Spots, those free

1:04agent ads are just short-term fixes. On offense, no panicked wide receiver, despite Mike Evans departing, they've got depth with Emeka Egbuca, Jalen McMillan, and a healthy Chris Godwin. Stepping up. Mott drafts keep linking the bucks to names like Miami's Akim Mesador, Florida's Kayla Banks, or Auburn's Celtic Falk on Defense, with tight end. Kenyan Sadik as a best player available wildcard. They hold picks at 1546th77th and beyond in all seven rounds. As the draft nears, tap a stacking the deck for a defensive revival that could flip their fortunes. Keep an eye on those trade desks lighting up.