The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to improve in every area if they want to avoid missing the playoffs again, as they did in 2025.
Offensively, they brought in Zac Robinson as the new coordinator to revitalize that side of the ball, and special teams have also seen some improvements. The defense, however, remains under head coach Todd Bowles, who will need to reorganize his unit to boost performance.
Defense will be a key focus for the Bucs during free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, but trades could also help strengthen certain positions. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests Tampa Bay could enhance their pass rush by acquiring Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary.
“Tampa needs more explosiveness on the edge, and Rashan Gary could benefit from a fresh start,” Ballentine wrote. “The Packers added Micah Parsons partly because Gary hasn’t lived up to his contract. With just two years left on his deal, the salary could be adjusted with an extension or void years.”
Gary faced criticism this past season from Packers fans for not making big plays and not giving full effort, though his 2025 stats were consistent with his prior seasons.
Trading for Gary would immediately give the Buccaneers a top edge rusher, complementing Vita Vea, Calijah Kancey, and Yaya Diaby. The former Michigan first-round pick is versatile, capable of setting the edge while generating outside pressure, fitting Bowles’ preference for powerful, fast edge defenders.
Acquiring Gary would be a “win-now” move, adding a proven, prime pass rusher and addressing a major defensive need instantly. It’s a feasible trade for Tampa Bay, likely costing only a second-round pick or a combination like a third-round and a later-round pick. His contract and cap hit make him more affordable than a true premium player, especially if the Bucs restructure his deal upon arrival.
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