It's hard to ignore Buccaneers’ growing interest in one defensive tackle prospect

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be looking to address plenty of key needs on the defensive side of the ball during the 2026 NFL Draft. 

While pass rusher and inside linebacker are the most pressing needs, the interior defensive line is flying under the radar as a position group that needs reinforcements. 

Based on the Buccaneers’ focus on defensive tackles during the pre-draft process, it’s clear they plan to draft one at some point, and they’re showing heavy interest in one particular prospect. 

Buccaneers are interested in Texas Tech DT Lee Hunter ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter is known primarily for his size, strength, and run stuffing ability.  

He finished with 32 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks during his college career, which included three seasons at UCF before playing his final season for the Red Raiders. 

He measures in at 6-foot-3, 318 pounds and brings length with 33 ¼ arms. He certainly fits the bill of head coach Todd Bowles’ desire to add size to the defensive line this offseason. 

The Bucs first met with Hunter at the NFL Combine, where they had a formal interview with him per Pewter Report. Now, they’re circling back for a second meeting with Hunter, who shared on social media that he’s visiting the Buccaneers facility today for an in-person visit. 

Tampa Bay has already had a handful of confirmed top-30 visits with early-round defensive tackles, so it’s safe to assume they’ll be investing a premium pick at the position. 

Vita Vea is 31 years old and is entering a contract year. Calijah Kancey has yet to play a full healthy season, and free agent signing A’Shawn Robinson is also 31 years old and playing on a one-year deal. 

The team needs to have a contingency plan in place for the future of the defensive tackle in Tampa Bay, and they seem determined to find the right fit as they do their due diligence at the position.

Evidently, Hunter is one of the players at the top of their list. He's not expected to be a first-round pick, but keep a close eye on Hunter to the Buccaneers if he's still on the board when they're on the clock at No. 46 overall.