The Tampa Bay Buccaneers head into the 2026 NFL Draft looking to strengthen their tight end position. Despite returning all four of last year's tight ends, the team is actively scouting this deep draft class, indicating a desire for improvement and competition. Key players like Cade Otton are locked in, but others like Payne Durham face uncertain futures. With formal interviews and visits conducted with numerous tight end prospects, the Bucs are poised to add new talent, likely on Day 2 or Day 3 of the draft, to enhance their offense.

By the Numbers
  • Cade Otton signed a three-year contract worth $10 million.
  • The Bucs have hosted six tight ends for official visits and interviewed seven at the NFL Scouting Combine.
State of Play
  • The Buccaneers currently have Cade Otton, Payne Durham, Devin Culp, and Ko Kieft on the roster.
  • Tight end prospects like Kenyon Sadiq and Oscar Delp are generating significant interest from the team.
What's Next

The Bucs are likely to draft a tight end, with expectations leaning toward selecting one in the mid to late rounds. Potential picks may include players like Oscar Delp or Will Kacmarek, depending on how the draft unfolds. The team's focus will be on acquiring a versatile player capable of both blocking and receiving.

Bottom Line

Despite having an established tight end roster, the Buccaneers are actively seeking to enhance their talent pool and competition. Watching for a tight end selection in the upcoming draft could reshape the offensive strategy and elevate performance moving forward.