The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter their Week 10 bye at 3-6, with eight games remaining to evaluate their roster before the 2027 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht currently holds seven selections, but expiring contracts and inconsistent offensive production could influence how those picks are used.
Here are five positions Tampa Bay should prioritize next April.
1. Wide receiver
Tampa Bay's passing offense has struggled despite having Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, and Tez Johnson. Egbuka leads the team with 278 receiving yards, while Godwin has 259. Johnson has provided explosive plays, but the Buccaneers need another dependable receiving threat who can create separation and produce consistently.
2. Tight end
Cade Otton remains the primary option and is under contract through
2028. However, Payne Durham's rookie contract expires after this season, which could leave Tampa Bay needing another contributor. Adding a receiving threat alongside Otton would give the offense another option beyond its current receiver rotation.
3. Edge rusher
YaYa Diaby is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after 2026, making his future an important offseason decision. Rookie Rueben Bain Jr. has shown promise, but losing Diaby would create a significant need opposite him. Even with an extension, the team should consider adding pass-rushing depth.
4. Linebacker
Josiah Trotter has emerged as a regular contributor, playing 97% of Tampa Bay's defensive snaps against Chicago. Alex Anzalone is signed through 2027, but SirVocea Dennis' expiring contract creates uncertainty behind the starters. Finding a reliable third linebacker would strengthen the rotation and provide injury insurance.
5. Interior offensive line
Cody Mauch's contract expires after 2026, while pass protection remains inconsistent. Against Chicago, Ben Bredeson allowed five pressures, including a sack. With Tristan Wirfs and Luke Goedeke anchoring the tackle positions, adding competition and long-term stability at guard should be a priority.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Five biggest Buccaneers needs in the 2027 NFL Draft
