Buccaneers build first 2026 practice squad, prioritize secondary depth and add a third QB

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened their 2026 practice squad by filling 16 of the 17 available spots on Monday, laying out a clear emphasis on covering depth issues in the secondary and ensuring quarterback support behind the active roster. The move comes as NFL teams finalize roster construction for the regular season, with practice squads serving as both a development runway and an insurance policy against injuries and attrition.

According to the Buccaneers’ team release, the club dedicated three practice-squad roles to defensive backs. That allocation reflects the organization’s view that its current active personnel leaves the back end of the defense short on experienced bodies, making the practice squad a practical place to keep coverage-ready players at the ready.

Tampa Bay also added a third quarterback to the first iteration of its practice squad. The release specifically notes that one of those quarterback spots went to veteran Easton Stick, positioning Tampa Bay with additional report-calling depth and a more complete practice-week preparation package.

Practice squads have limited space, so teams typically make choices that mirror the vulnerabilities they believe they have today. In Tampa Bay’s case, the structure suggests that quarterback depth and defensive back depth are the two areas the club wanted to protect immediately as it began building for the weeks ahead.

For context, the “first iteration” language matters because practice squads can change over time, with spots reshuffled as teams evaluate players in practice settings, respond to performance, and react to roster moves involving the active team. The Buccaneers’ early distribution of positions gives a snapshot of how the staff plans to approach development and readiness during camp-to-season transition.

Even with an established practice squad, roles can shift quickly. The most direct way Tampa Bay could confirm the early plan is through subsequent week-by-week changes, such as whether the secondary-heavy group stays intact or whether the club replaces any defensive back additions with players who align with new practice needs.

For fans tracking Tampa Bay, the near-term story is not a single game outcome but how the practice squad is used. Watch how often the defensive back group rotates in practice periods and whether quarterback Easton Stick’s presence corresponds to a broader quarterback toolkit on the field during team preparation.