The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ rookie class is officially in the building, and with offseason work set to get underway, jersey number projections are starting to take shape. While nothing is finalized until later in the summer, early assignments often give a first glimpse at the newest Buccaneers.
So far, two picks are already confirmed. Defensive back Keionte Scott will wear #22, while linebacker Josiah Trotter Jr. has been spotted edits wearing #45. Both fit the mold well: 22 for a versatile defensive back with range, and 45 for a physical, downhill linebacker.
The rest of the class is still under wraps. First-round edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. is the biggest one to watch here. While edge players typically land in the 50s or 90s, Bain has the kind of profile where a single-digit number makes sense. No. 1 is currently available and would be a strong statement. The alternative is No. 4, but that would require convincing veteran kicker Chase McLaughlin to give it up.
On the defensive line, Demonte Capehart should settle into the 90s, which is the standard range for interior linemen. 96 would fit in nicely next to 94 Calijah Kancey.
On offense, Billy Schrauth projects into the traditional offensive line range between 60–79. No. 73 is a clean, realistic fit for an interior lineman developing behind the veterans.
At tight end, Bauer Sharp enters a room where versatility matters. While tight ends often wear numbers in the 80s, the modern rules allow flexibility. 84 stands out as a strong projection for Sharp as he competes for a role in the passing game.
Another offensive piece in the mix is Ted Hurst, who could stick with the single-digit theme. 3 feels like a clean, modern fit for rookie receivers trying to establish themselves early.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Projecting the jersey numbers for the Bucs 2026 NFL Draft class