The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft with a strategic focus on their immediate and long-term roster needs. With key players potentially entering free agency, the Bucs are prioritizing depth in critical positions such as inside linebacker and safety. Lavonte David's eventual replacement is crucial, and Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell stands out as an ideal prospect.

Additionally, bolstering the secondary through the selection of players like Georgia's Malaki Starks or Kansas State's Jacob Parrish is on the agenda. The team also aims to enhance its pass rush and is eyeing first-round talents like Mike Green. Planning for the future, especially concerning Jamel Dean’s uncertain contract, will guide their draft decisions.

Jason Licht, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' general manager, has been a standout performer this NFL offseason, earning accolades for his savvy free-agent signings just ahead of the upcoming draft. Keeping star wide receiver Chris Godwin, who took less money to remain in Tampa, along with re-signing veteran linebacker Lavonte David, highlights Licht's effective management. Notably, he also retained key offensive linemen Ben Bredeson and Sua Opeta and made waves by signing pass rusher Haason Reddick, contributing to an impressive overall offseason.

Despite the praise, ESPN analyst Ben Solak pointed out a concern regarding the backup quarterback situation. The Bucs' decision to stick with Kyle Trask instead of seeking a more experienced option raises questions about their playoff ambitions, especially if starting quarterback Baker Mayfield were to miss time. As the offseason progresses, the Buccaneers look poised to retain their competitive edge, with all offensive starters returning from last season.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced significant challenges in their secondary during the 2024 season due to injuries, most notably losing cornerback Bryce Hall for the year in the season opener. Star safety Antoine Winfield Jr. also dealt with ongoing injury issues. As a result, the Buccaneers ranked poorly in passing defense, allowing 243.9 yards per game, fourth-most in the league. Recognizing the need for improvement, the Bucs made strategic moves in free agency, including signing linebacker Haason Reddick to bolster their pass rush.

Moreover, the Bucs are focusing on building a solid foundation for their defense, retaining key players like Hall, Kaevon Merriweather, and Lavonte David. With the No. 19 pick in the upcoming draft, there are expectations that they could select Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron, a versatile player adept at various defensive roles. Barron’s impressive college career, highlighted by the Jim Thorpe Award, makes him a promising addition to a secondary in need of depth and performance improvements.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a significant move in fortifying their linebacker corps by signing Anthony Walker, a native of Miami, Florida. Walker's decision to join the Bucs was heavily influenced by his admiration for Lavonte David, a franchise legend and fellow Miami native. During his introductory press conference, Walker expressed his respect for David, emphasizing his impact on the team and the community. He stated that having the chance to be teammates with David was a dream come true. Walker confirmed that he and David had been discussing the possibility of this move since Walker's draft year, making this a long-awaited collaboration. The Buccaneers now look to build a strong foundation for their linebacking corps, aiming for both immediate and long-term success.