The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for the 2025 season with Lavonte David and Antoine Winfield Jr. anchoring key defensive positions. However, uncertainty looms over who will fill the linebacker and safety spots alongside them. As head coach Todd Bowles and his staff prepare for key decisions, it's expected that players like SirVocea Dennis and Tykee Smith will get the first crack at these roles. The linebacker position could see a committee approach reminiscent of last season, depending on Dennis's health, while a single standout is likely to be chosen for the safety role, assuming no injuries hinder the decision-making process.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Georgia safety Tykee Smith with the 89th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, banking on his impressive college credentials to bolster their struggling defense. Smith's collegiate career saw him contribute significantly to two national championships, wrapping up his final season with 70 tackles, four interceptions, and two sacks.

In his rookie year with the Buccaneers, Smith quickly established himself as a key player in the secondary, starting six out of 13 games. His performance included two interceptions, seven defended passes, and three forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to impact games. His stats were even more pronounced during Tampa Bay's Wild Card playoff game, where he recorded seven tackles, solidifying his role as a reliable defensive back for the team.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made significant moves in the offseason following a lackluster 2024 season, where they ranked 29th in defense. To enhance their pass defense, they signed linebacker Haason Reddick and drafted rookie cornerbacks Jacob Parrish and David Walker. Parrish has emerged as a standout athlete, impressing during the Senior Bowl and the Scouting Combine. Pro Football Focus believes he could compete for a starting role as the Buccaneers prepare for the upcoming season.

With adjustments in their secondary, including moving Tykee Smith to safety and adding draft picks Benjamin Morrison and Elijah Roberts, the Buccaneers aim to bolster their defensive lineup. If Parrish can maintain his momentum into training camp, he could play a crucial role as they head into Week 1.

In the 2024 NFL season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced significant injuries on defense, prompting them to shuffle their roster, notably with rookie Tykee Smith. Smith has demonstrated versatility, stepping in at cornerback and excelling in coverage while filling gaps due to injuries in the secondary, including Antoine Winfield Jr. The Buccaneers' management, led by Jason Licht, is now contemplating a permanent position switch for Smith to safety in light of his strong performance and the possibilities surrounding their draft strategy.

If the Buccaneers decide to draft a safety early, Smith may remain at cornerback, yet if they opt for a cornerback, the likelihood of Smith transitioning to safety increases. This decision will heavily depend on the team’s draft approach and their need to bolster the secondary further.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft with a strategic focus on their immediate and long-term roster needs. With key players potentially entering free agency, the Bucs are prioritizing depth in critical positions such as inside linebacker and safety. Lavonte David's eventual replacement is crucial, and Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell stands out as an ideal prospect.

Additionally, bolstering the secondary through the selection of players like Georgia's Malaki Starks or Kansas State's Jacob Parrish is on the agenda. The team also aims to enhance its pass rush and is eyeing first-round talents like Mike Green. Planning for the future, especially concerning Jamel Dean’s uncertain contract, will guide their draft decisions.