Bucs GM Hypes Rueben Bain as 'Game Wrecker' After Criticism of DE Before 2026 NFL Draft

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. received criticism in the pre-draft process for his arm length, but Bucs general manager Jason Licht isn't concerned with that at all. In fact, he's thrilled the former Miami star is in the building, calling Bain a "game wrecker."

"We kind of viewed him as a problem, not a prototype," Licht added.

The B/R NFL Scouting Department loved Bain, ranking him fifth on its final big board of 2026 NFL draft prospects and first among edge-rushers.

Bain helped Miami reach the national championship game, winning the Ted Hendricks Award (top defensive end in college football) and earning consensus All-American honors. He had nine-and-a-half sacks (20.5 for his career), 15 tackles for a loss and 54 tackles.

He figures to start for a Buccaneers defense that just lost linebacker Lavonte David due to retirement. Tampa Bay could also use more pass-rushing help (only two returning players, Yaya Diaby and Vita Vea, had more than three sacks for the Bucs last season). Bain should help in that regard.

Overall, there's a lot to like about Bain's potential and fit in Tampa Bay, and Licht clearly sees that as the Bucs look to return to the playoffs after missing them last year.