Buccaneers Feel Rueben Bain Jr. is a Perfect Fit for Their 2026 Defense

Rueben Bain Jr. has the feel of a player who can play just about any role that is asked of him in a defense. Lining up at outside linebacker, defensive end or even defensive tackle doesn't feel like a stretch of the imagination when looking at the impact Bain can have on a defense.

Recently, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles spoke on the versatility of Bain Jr. and some of the plans that he might have for him going forward in his defense.

"It appeals a great deal that he can move up and down the line of scrimmage. Obviously, he had great coaching in college and high school, so to be versatile in this game when you're only allowed to take so many [players] to the game, it's very important to play in a couple different positions, and he can do that," Bowles said in a press conference after the Bucs selected Bain.

Mar 30, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles during the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

We know a few things that Bowles likes to do in his defense, and that is to be aggressive — and, at times, get creative. We've seen Bowles do some things that people might not always agree with, such as dropping pass-rushing linebackers into coverage on running backs or tight ends. We've also seen Bowles do some things that have worked well in the past, however, such as moving nose tackle Vita Vea to defensive end at times, as well as some of the creative blitzing he can call to help generate sacks and pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. poses on the red carpet before the 2026 NFL Draft at Point State Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It also seems like Bowles is a big fan of what to expect from Bain regarding his overall style of play that he is bringing with him. Bain is very much a no-nonsense type of player who is all business. This style of play and demeanor is something the Buccaneers have sorely been missing, and it was also what helped Bowles grow to love the player that Bain could potentially be.

"It's his physical style of play – from a mental standpoint and a physical standpoint. Pass rushers come in different ways and different types and different sizes. Some are power, some are speed, some have an arsenal, some can bend, some can't. He can do it all," Bowles said. "He can do it all and he shows that up and down the line of scrimmage. He plays with a mentality – a no-losing mentality – at all times. He fights and he plays with the right kind of attitude and mentality that we're trying to bring to this team."

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