With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' front office is likely exploring every avenue to build a contender. While holding the 26th overall pick offers its own opportunities, General Manager Jason Licht could look to get creative by leveraging current roster talent to move up or acquire more capital. Trading a proven player is always a gamble, but for a team fine-tuning its championship window, certain assets might be more valuable in a deal.
So, which Buccaneers could generate the most phone calls from other teams? We’re looking at three names who combine intriguing potential with the contract situations or positional depth that makes a trade plausible.
First up is cornerback Zyon McCollum. His physical profile is a scout's dream: elite length and athleticism that screams shutdown potential. However, consistency has been the hurdle. After a 2025 season that didn't meet expectations, the Bucs might still be in the market for a definitive CB1. If they target a cornerback early in the draft, McCollum suddenly becomes a fascinating trade chip. For a team willing to bet on his untapped upside, he represents a chance to acquire a future star at a potentially discounted price.
The most surprising, but not impossible, name is veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin. A model of consistency and leadership, Godwin has been an offensive cornerstone. Yet, with a substantial contract and the team possibly looking to get younger or redistribute funds following Mike Evans' departure, his situation is worth monitoring. Trading him would be a major shift, especially as he steps into the WR1 role, but his proven production and professionalism would command a significant return. It's a long shot, but in the ruthless calculus of the NFL, no asset is truly untouchable.
Finally, young pass rusher YaYa Diaby presents a classic "sell-high" opportunity. He's shown flashes of becoming a disruptive force off the edge, which is precisely what makes him attractive. If the Buccaneers' draft strategy zeroes in on a top-tier edge prospect, Diaby could be packaged to facilitate a major move up the board. His combination of youth, a non-stop motor, and ascending talent gives him tangible value on the trade market. Dealing him would be a bet on the unknown draft pick, but it's a strategic lever the Bucs could pull to aggressively address another need.
Ultimately, the Buccaneers are in an interesting spot. They don't need a fire sale, but strategic aggression could define their draft. Whether they stay put or make a splash, these three players are the most likely to be at the center of any serious trade conversations as the clock ticks down in Detroit.
