Heading into the season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' wide receiver group looked like one of the strongest units in the league. Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Emeka Egbuka were set to give defenses fits.
Instead, injuries have exposed the Bucs' lack of depth at the position. Without Evans and Godwin in the lineup, Tampa Bay has struggled to find consistent pass-catching options. As Evans nears the end of his historic career, receiver is becoming a glaring need for general manager Jason Licht to address in the coming offseason.
Luckily, there are plenty of options throughout the 2026 NFL Draft to solve the issue.
2026 NFL Draft offers Buccaneers solutions to wide receiver need
Buccaneers' fits on day one
It would be surprising to see Tampa Bay spend back-to-back first-round picks on receivers, but there are a few quality options if they choose to do so. The best fit may be Ohio State wideout Carnell Tate if he falls far enough. Tate is a big-bodied, outside receiver who could serve as a long-term replacement for Evans.
Washington's Denzel Boston is another name to watch. He thrives in jump ball situations, using his strength and imposing frame to overpower defensive backs.
Buccaneers' fits on day two
In the second round, USC's Ja'Kobi Lane would be a good fit. He's another receiver who does his best work outside the numbers, and he has the ability to threaten defenses down the field.
It's more likely that the Buccaneers start looking for receiver depth in the third round or later. If they do, Alabama's Germie Bernard could be the perfect answer. His sure hands and feel against zone coverage would make him one of Baker Mayfield's favorite targets. If Bernard isn't available, Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr. would be a good alternative. He's had some issues with drops, but his acrobatic catches are enough to draw teams in.
Buccaneers' fits on day three
In the later rounds, teams are often looking for prospects with the traits to outperform their draft cost. If he can put his unreal athleticism to use, South Carolina's Nyck Harbor could become a superstar. He's 6'5" and 235 pounds with the speed to threaten defenses vertically. There's work to do on his route-running technique, but the upside for Harbor is enticing.
Near the end of the draft, Ole Miss receiver De'Zhaun Stribling deserves mention. His versatility makes him an ideal depth piece for Tampa Bay.