The Tampa Bay Buccaneers wasted no time diving into the NFL's free agency frenzy as soon as the negotiation window swung open. With the 2026 NFL Draft still more than a month away, the Bucs are already shaping up to look quite different next season. But the big question is: have they struck gold in free agency, or have they overpaid for the talent they've acquired?
Bucs’ Free Agency Moves: A Mixed Bag
The Buccaneers made early waves by signing running back Kenny Gainwell and inside linebacker Alex Anzalone. General Manager Jason Licht and Assistant GM Mike Greenberg departed from their usual playbook of one-year deals, showing confidence in Gainwell and Anzalone as more than just temporary fixes.
Starting with Gainwell, his two-year, $14 million contract exceeded expectations, with Pro Football Focus projecting him at two years, $8 million. Gainwell surprised many with his breakout role for the Steelers, excelling in both rushing and receiving with solid PFF grades.
His versatility makes him a perfect fit alongside Bucky Irving, especially with Rachaad White likely exiting in free agency. Gainwell's career year, highlighted by 114 carries for 537 yards and 73 catches for 486 yards, positions him as a dynamic weapon for offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.
Anzalone, on the other hand, brings veteran leadership to the linebacker corps. Signing a two-year, $17 million deal, he aligns closely with his projected market value.
Known for his steady presence with the Lions, Anzalone offers coverage skills, run support, and blitzing ability, providing the Bucs with a reliable three-down linebacker. This move might give them flexibility in the draft, potentially easing the urgency to select a linebacker early.
Tampa Bay also re-signed tight end Cade Otton, signaling a shift in priorities with the end of Mike Evans' storied Bucs career. Otton's three-year, $30 million deal, though slightly below projections, raised eyebrows at PFF due to other pressing needs. While Otton is a reliable player, the question remains if his $10 million per year contract was the best use of resources.
Defensive Moves: Calculated Risks?
Following the initial signings, the Bucs continued to bolster their roster. They pivoted quickly after losing defensive tackle Logan Hall to the Texans by signing veteran A’Shawn Robinson on a one-year, $10 million deal. Although Robinson brings experience and size to the defensive line, his recent performance hasn't matched his pay raise, leading to a below-average PFF grade.
However, the Bucs found better value with edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad. Signing a one-year, $4 million deal that could reach $6 million, Muhammad comes off an impressive 11-sack season with the Lions. His ability to pressure quarterbacks makes this one of the more astute signings, offering great value for the price.
Tampa Bay also added quarterback Jake Browning and safety Miles Killebrew. Browning, likely on a modest deal, provides reliable backup experience behind Baker Mayfield. Killebrew, recovering from a torn ACL, could become a key special teams contributor, adding depth and versatility to the roster.
Overall Assessment
With two above-average signings, one average, and two below-average moves, the Buccaneers are navigating free agency with an eye toward depth and flexibility rather than flashy acquisitions. Whether this strategy pays off will hinge on their upcoming draft decisions. As it stands, the Bucs are sticking to a familiar script under Jason Licht, focusing on building a well-rounded team ready to compete in the upcoming season.