Best Linebacker Draft Fits for the Buccaneers

Replacing Lavonte David isn’t about finding a clone.

It’s about defining what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers want their defense to become next.

For over a decade, David was the centerpiece—range, instincts, leadership, and consistency. That combination doesn’t exist in a single prospect.

But the 2026 NFL Draft offers multiple paths forward.

Sonny Styles, Ohio State

• Traits: Rare size and athletic profile
• Coverage: Former safety with natural movement skills
• Ceiling: Defensive centerpiece

Styles is one of the most intriguing defenders in this class. His length and range allow him to impact plays all over the field, and his background in the secondary shows up in coverage.

In a defense led by Todd Bowles, he projects as a movable chess piece who can match up with modern offenses.

This is the high-upside swing.

Arvell Reese, Ohio State

• Explosiveness: Violent downhill presence
• Pass Rush: Legitimate blitz weapon
• Play Style: Disruptive and aggressive

Reese fits the mold of what Bowles values—versatility and pressure. He’s at his best attacking, whether that’s shooting gaps or rushing the passer.

He doesn’t replace David stylistically, but he gives the defense a different kind of edge.

CJ Allen, Georgia

• Consistency: Assignment-sound and reliable
• Football IQ: Processes quickly and efficiently
• Role: Three-down MIKE linebacker

Allen is one of the safest projections in the class. He plays under control, understands his responsibilities, and brings stability to the middle of a defense.

If the Buccaneers want a long-term leader and communicator, Allen is a clean fit.

Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

• Speed: Excellent sideline-to-sideline range
• Physicality: Plays downhill with force
• Versatility: Impacts both run and pass

Hill is one of the closest stylistic fits to what David brought to the table. His ability to chase plays and operate in space stands out immediately.

He offers the kind of range Tampa Bay has relied on for years.

Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech

• Production: Consistently around the football
• Instincts: Quick recognition and reaction
• Playmaking: Creates disruption across phases

Rodriguez is one of the most productive linebackers in the class. He may not have elite size, but his instincts and motor allow him to make plays at a high level.

This is a playmaker over traits profile.

Jake Golday, Cincinnati

• Traits: Strong build with athletic upside
• Motor: High-energy defender
• Projection: Developmental starter with growth potential

Golday brings tools and effort, even if he’s still developing. He fits as a Day 2 option for a team willing to invest in his upside.

The Reality for Tampa Bay

There is no direct replacement for Lavonte David in this class.

But there are three clear directions the Buccaneers can take:

Build around traits:

• Sonny Styles
• Arvell Reese

Build around stability:

• C.J. Allen
• Anthony Hill Jr.

Bet on playmaking:

• Jacob Rodriguez
• Jake Golday

Each path leads to a different identity on defense.

Final Thought

The Buccaneers aren’t just drafting a linebacker.

They’re choosing what comes after Lavonte David.

Do they want:

• Versatility and disruption?
• Stability and leadership?
• Or instinctive playmaking?

Because replacing a legend isn’t about finding the same player.

It’s about building the next version of the defense the right way.