Rookie edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. joins Buccaneers for season opener

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare for their season opener in Cincinnati this Sunday with rookie edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. on the roster. Selected 15th overall in the 2026 NFL draft, Bain is expected to address a long-standing need for an elite pass rusher. Tampa Bay officials noted that while other prospects were considered, the team prioritized Bain for his instincts and work ethic despite concerns regarding his measurables. Teammate and tackle Luke Goedeke described the rookie as more developed than previous pass rushers he has faced in training camp. The Buccaneers have not drafted a premier edge disruptor who sustained success for the franchise since the tenure of Lee Roy Selmon.

• 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — He’s barely 22, but the Bucs have been waiting decades for Rueben Bain Jr.