Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Defense Under Scrutiny as Season Stumbles

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have lost three games so far in the 2026 NFL regular season. The franchise's early-season performance captured the attention of an NFL insider, who expressed concern about the Buccaneers’ defense and highlighted other challenges.

Jason La Canfora, an NFL insider, analyst, and reporter, stated that the Buccaneers have a major defensive problem. Todd Bowles, a coach renowned for his extensive defensive expertise, is in charge of the Buccaneers’ defense. However, La Canfora explained that the team’s defense is not cohesive, which is typically associated with the defense led by Bowles.

An advanced scout mentioned that the Buccaneers’ defense does not appear to be of one mindset. La Canfora cited too many blown coverages and players running free in the middle of the field as issues with the Buccaneers’ defense. A general manager expressed concern that the Buccaneers might regret extending Baker Mayfield's contract for $55 million a year. Baker Mayfield, the Buccaneers' quarterback, was described as having a terrible start to the season.