Buccaneers tipped to replace Super Bowl champion in mock draft

Story byAdam SchultzTue, January 13, 2026 at 11:47 PM UTC·1 min readBuccaneers tipped to replace Super Bowl champion in mock draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will enter the offseason knowing where most of their weaknesses lie. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith Baker Mayfield and the offense having weapons everywhere, maybe the offensive line could get some upgrading, but for most, it's the defense. Whether it's via free agency or the draft, Tampa Bay has to fill several holes in Todd Bowles' embattled unit. But where does the franchise start?For PFF's Max Chadwick, in his latest mock draft, Tampa Bay gets one of the best linebackers in the country, in Ohio State's Sunny Styles."Lavonte David finally began to decline at nearly 36 years old this season, but the Buccaneers still have no succession plan at linebacker," Chadwick wrote. "Enter Styles, who was one of only six linebackers in the nation to earn 85.0-plus grades both in coverage and in run defense."AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMore: How ruthless will Buccaneers be with franchise legend?Buccaneers need defensive overhaulOne of the big knocks on the defense was the unit allowing big, explosive plays regularly. We don't often see that from a Bowles defense. Given the offense is basically set, that could allow Tampa Bay to look at free agency and the draft and load up on defensive players. Of course, you never want to draft for need, but the Buccaneers might have to if they want to retake their division back from the Carolina Panthers. Styles would be a superb get, but I'm unsure if he lasts until No.