Rueben Bain Jr. earns top PFF grade among first-round NFL defensive rookies
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 3:25 PM
Last updated Aug 26, 2026

Rueben Bain Jr., the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' first-round draft pick, has impressed in his preseason performances. He received the highest PFF grade among all first-round defensive rookies with an 88.8 score after two games. Bain made his debut against the Kansas City Chiefs after not participating in the preseason opener. His performance showcased his skills, including generating pressure and demonstrating speed and power that he exhibited at the University of Miami. The Buccaneers are hoping Bain can provide significant contributions to the defense this season as other key players deal with contract situations and injuries.
- •Bain graded at 88.8, edging out Arvell Reese at 88.2.
- •He did not play in the preseason opener but debuted against the Chiefs.
- •Bain posted 9.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in his final college season.
- •The Buccaneers aim for improved defensive performance this season.
- •Bain was considered one of the biggest steals of the 2026 NFL Draft.
- 3:25 PMYahoo Sports — Rueben Bain Jr. Is Grading As The Top First Round Rookie Defender
"Breaking down Rueben Bain Jr. Is Grading As The Top First Round Rookie Defender
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