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Bucs' EDGE Bain Projected Defensive Rookie of the Year
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- Bucs' EDGE Bain Projected Defensive Rookie of the Year
Bucs' EDGE Bain Projected Defensive Rookie of the Year
(IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters Connect)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers addressed their need for pass rush help through the 2026 NFL Draft, acquiring standout Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. with the No. 15 overall pick.
Since that time, Bain has looked the part as a dynamic player on Tampa's defensive line, shining against high-level talent in joint practices and minimal preseason snaps.
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On Monday, Bain was voted the likely winner of the Defensive Rookie of the Year award by NFLonFOX fans, beating out other highly-touted players from his class.
As the regular season approaches, Bain is the betting favorite for the award on most books, with a big year being predicted for the Bucs' first-year rusher.
But, Bain is not focused on individual numbers or awards, as he told media earlier this week.
"Nothing statistical. Just being consistent, coming up every day with the same attitude, being the same guy every day... So I just want to go out, play, have fun. And whatever God blessed me with, that's the opportunities that I have," Bain said.
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In mid-August, following a grueling practice in the Florida summer heat, Bain was seen getting in additional work by himself, setting up individual drills.
This caught the attention of some national media outlets and social media pages, as Bain's work ethic and dedication has been evident since he was drafted.
Following the viral clip, Bain talked to ESPN's Jenna Laine about why he is putting in extra reps.
"I feel like in college most of my plays were made in the fourth quarter..." Bain said. "I know when I'm tired, the O-linemen are a little more tired than me."
Laine noted that ten of Bain's 20.5 sacks during his three seasons at Miami came in the fourth quarter, which stands along in that span.
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Bain's competitive nature is something that stood out to General Manager Jason Licht throughout the pre-draft process, as he talked about wanting players who play the right way and show intensity on the field.
This was evident from day one, when Bain was videoed nearly ripping off parts of the sled drills, and being told to take it easy by his coaching staff.
This violent playstyle is what made Bain so effective in college, and what has him being projected as an instant-impact player by people around the league.
In mid-July, former Bucs Super Bowl-winning head coach Jon Gruden joined the 95.7 WDAE radio show to talk about Bain's physical "disadvantages" and what he expects from him this season.
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"Well, I think he can be a double-digit sack guy," Gruden said. "Now, some of the analytical people are scared of him because of his arm length and some of that stuff. I think he's a double-digit sack guy."
Bain should also help Tampa return to the dominance in run defense that head coach Todd Bowles has produced over his tenure.
Against the run, Bain recorded 29 solo tackles and forced two fumbles, adding an interception in pass protection.
This versatility will only grow as Bain gets more accustomed to Bowles' system.
