The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the hunt for a game-changing edge rusher, a quest that's been a bit of a roller coaster for GM Jason Licht. With some draft picks and free-agent signings not quite hitting the mark, the pressure is on to find that defensive spark.
CBS Sports' Zachary Pereles recently spotlighted this pressing need, offering two intriguing solutions: one from the draft and one from free agency. For the draft, he points to Auburn's Keldric Faulk, a towering presence at 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds, whose athletic potential could be a game-changer.
On the free agency front, Joey Bosa is the name to watch. Bosa's impressive 14.6% pressure rate in 2025, his best since 2022, along with his knack for forcing fumbles, makes him a tantalizing option.
Pereles notes that head coach Todd Bowles thrives on dialing up pressure, but a consistent pass rush without blitzing would be a dream come true. The Bucs ranked 20th in pressure rate without blitzing last year, highlighting the need for a reliable edge presence.
Yaya Diaby, who has shown flashes of brilliance, could benefit immensely from a partner on the opposite side. Whether it's Faulk's raw potential or Bosa's proven track record, either could inject much-needed energy into the Bucs' defense and help elevate Diaby's game to the next level. The right addition could be the catalyst for a defensive resurgence in Tampa Bay.