Mario Cristobal’s comments just made Bucs’ Rueben Bain Jr. pick even more perfect

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers somehow had Rueben Bain Jr. fall into their laps in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. 

Bain was universally expected to be selected in the top ten, and Jason Licht was happy to reap the benefits of his unexpected draft day slide.

Bucs fans are ecstatic with the pick as the team looks to have finally found their impact pass rusher. Bain's introductory press conference only made fans fall in love with him even more. Now, his college head coach is making the selection even more exciting.

Mario Cristobal calls Rueben Bain Jr. the toughest, most physical player in 2026 NFL Draft

“I think he’s the most hard-nosed, toughest, most physical guy in the draft,” said Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal on The Pat McAfee Show.

Cristobal recounted stories of Bain refusing to come off the field during practice when coaches were trying to get him a break. 

He also apparently would bring pads with him to meet potential recruits on their campus visits and ensure they’re built for the physical culture at Miami, which Bain helped set the tone for. 

By all accounts, the Bucs landed a player with a relentless motor and a true obsession with the game of football. Bain said it himself, he “eats, sleeps, and breathes football.” 

He’s a culture-setter, and is going to bring the nasty streak to the defense that they’ve been looking to add this offseason. 

Cristobal’s endorsement of Bain not only as a player, but as a leader within the program is the most encouraging sign the Bucs can get regarding their newest draft pick.

At just 21-years-old, he seems poised to be a cornerstone of this defense for years to come, and he’ll make the Tampa Bay pass rush better on day one. 

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