The Tampa Bay Buccaneers completely revamped their defense ahead of the 2026 season.
Todd Bowles’ unit could have as many as five new starters for the upcoming season after an offseason aimed at upgrading the defensive side of the ball.
The linebacker position was a particular Achilles heel for Tampa Bay last season, and Lavonte David’s retirement after 14 seasons only further exacerbated the depth.
The front office acted accordingly, signing veteran Alex Anzalone to a two-year deal and drafting Josiah Trotter in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
But despite those additions, the overall depth of the linebacker room could still stand to improve. The Miami Dolphins could have an impact player available, and Tampa Bay should pick up the phone.
Buccaneers should explore a Tyrel Dodson trade with the Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins have gone all-in on the linebacker position this offseason.
They selected Bucs draft darling Jacob Rodriguez just three picks ahead of Tampa Bay in the second round, and later doubled down with Kyle Louis in the fourth round.
Earlier this week, they re-signed veteran Jordyn Brooks to a three-year deal after his First-Team All-Pro 2025 season.
With Miami’s linebacker room suddenly crowded, the Bucs could have an opportunity to swoop in and trade for Tyrel Dodson.
“Although Dodson played very well for the Dolphins, Sullivan just drafted Jacob Rodriguez in the second round and Kyle Louis in the fourth. Ronnie Harrison Jr. and Willie Gay should also factor into the linebacker corps,” wrote Matt Fitzgerald of Phin Phanatic. “Now that the Dolphins have made their commitment to Brooks, they should absolutely pick up the phone and hear offers for Dodson.”
Dodson may have taken a step back in 2025 by his standards, but the seasons prior showed that he’s capable of being one of the best coverage linebackers in the NFL.
In 2023, Pro Football Focus ranked him as the No. 3 overall linebacker, including fifth in coverage and 11th against the run. He followed that up by earning a top-three coverage grade in 2024.
Tampa Bay’s current linebacker depth chart is:
- Alex Anzalone
- Josiah Trotter
- SirVocea Dennis
- Christian Rozeboom
Anzalone is the only proven starter in the room. Trotter is a rookie who will need time to get comfortable in Bowles’ notoriously complex scheme. Dennis struggled mightily in coverage last season, grading out a bottom-five coverage grade among linebackers. Rozeboom was signed this offseason but he’s better suited for special teams and a reserve role than meaningful defensive snaps.
Dodson would give Tampa Bay another experienced linebacker while providing a valuable insurance plan if Trotter faces growing pains early.
While the room has improved from a year ago, the Bucs are still in no position to be complacent. If the Dolphins are willing to move Dodson for a Day 3 pick it’s the type of low-risk, high-reward move the Buccaneers need to consider.
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