Several Bucs players were present at the annual Sack Summit

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are hoping their pass rush takes a major step forward in 2026, and three of their most important defensive pieces are already putting in the work to make that happen.

>First round pick Rueben Bain Jr., defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, and edge rusher David Walker were all in attendance at this year's Sack Summit, an annual event that brings together some of the NFL's best pass rushers to share knowledge, techniques, and ways to improve their craft.

>For Tampa Bay, having three young defenders participate in the event highlights the team's commitment to developing a more dangerous defensive front. The Buccaneers have spent years searching for more consistent pressure off the edge and hope this group can change the defense's identity.

>For Bain, the experience could be especially valuable as he prepares for his first NFL season. Tampa Bay selected the Miami standout in the first round with the expectation that he can become the explosive edge rusher the defense has been missing. His combination of power, athleticism, and relentless effort made him one of college football's top pass rushers, but learning the finer details of the position from established NFL veterans could help accelerate his development.

>Kancey's entering the Sack Summit also carries plenty of importance.

>The former first-round pick has shown flashes of being one of the league's most disruptive interior pass rushers, but injuries have limited his availability early in his career. A healthy season paired with continued growth could give Tampa Bay a game-changing presence attacking from the middle of the defensive line.

>Walker is another intriguing name to watch. After missing his rookie season due to an ACL injury, the former fourth-round pick is looking to make his impact felt in 2026. Known for his pass-rushing ability in college, Walker now has the opportunity to return healthy and compete for a meaningful role in Todd Bowles' defense.

>The Buccaneers have invested heavily in rebuilding their defensive front, and the trio of Bain, Kancey, and Walker represents a major part of that future.

>Their decision to attend the Sack Summit shows they aren't relying solely on natural talent. They are actively seeking improvement, and if that work translates to the field, Tampa Bay could finally have the young pass-rushing core it has been searching for.

>This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Several Bucs players were present at the annual Sack Summit