The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made Rueben Bain Jr. their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and he quickly made a strong first impression with his all-business demeanor.
At his introductory press conference, Bain said all the right things, including making it clear he wasn’t too concerned about what number he’d wear at the next level.
No. 4, which he wore in college, is currently held by kicker Chase McLaughlin.
“I’ve been told it’s already [taken], it’s busy right now,” Bain said. “Honestly, it’s whatever they end up giving me. I’ll just take what they give me and go play some football.”
While Bain may not care much about his jersey number, Buccaneers fans certainly do. It’s a number that will soon be seen all over Raymond James Stadium, and now they finally have their answer.
Rueben Bain Jr. to wear No. 3 with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay had a few single-digit options available, including Nos. 1, 3, and 5. Bain ultimately landed on No. 3 as the number he’ll look to build his NFL legacy around.
TAMPA BAIN IS OFFICIALLY 3️⃣😤
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) May 4, 2026
Secure your jersey today online & at the Bucs Team Store located at Raymond James Stadium. pic.twitter.com/B5UJG90iIj
The Buccaneers are hoping it becomes one with lasting significance for the franchise, much like Ronde Barber’s No. 20 and Derrick Brooks’ No. 55.
In a best-case scenario, Bain develops into the kind of player who makes No. 3 untouchable and becomes the last to wear it in Tampa Bay.
General manager Jason Licht has seen that kind of trajectory in one of his draft picks before. After drafting Mike Evans in 2014, Evans turned No. 13 into one of the most iconic numbers in franchise history, and it’s widely expected to one day be retired and placed in the team’s Ring of Honor.
Now that Bain’s number is set, it’s back to business.
The Buccaneers are coming off a disappointing 8–9 season in 2025 and have a major sense of urgency to get back into playoff contention. Bain is expected to play a major role in that effort, with the team counting on him to help elevate the pass rush immediately.
There won’t be much of a grace period for the rookie. Tampa Bay needs Bain to make an impact right away.
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