Bain In "Midseason Form," New Coaches Bring Juice

Key Points:

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers held their 2026 rookie mini-camp on Friday, featuring draft picks, undrafted free agents, rookie camp invitees, and some returning practice squad members, with practices continuing through Saturday and voluntary OTAs scheduled later in the month.
• First-round pick Rueben Bain Jr. impressed head coach Todd Bowles by appearing in "midseason form," showing excellent conditioning and enthusiasm despite the hot weather, reflecting his readiness and excitement to join the team.
• Third-round pick Ted Hurst signed his rookie contract shortly before practice and made a standout play by catching a deep pass near the goal line during 11-on-11 drills, earning praise from Bowles for his size, athleticism, and smooth movement.
• New coaching staff members, including special teams coordinator Danny Smith and defensive line coach Marcus West, brought high energy and hands-on teaching approaches, positively impacting the rookie players and earning commendations from Bowles.
• The rookie mini-camp served as an important adjustment period for new players to learn the playbook and NFL routines, with a focus on teaching and development under the guidance of the coaching staff.