Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Local government support for the Rays' ballpark was fragile before the tax measure went on the November ballot. Now, the Tampa Sports Authority is writing a letter to state its priority: Raymond James Stadium.

City negotiations with the team and the county have been handled by officials on the mayor's staff. But some council members have expressed frustration with having to vote on a deal without having a seat at the table.

Attorney General James Uthmeier is investigating whether the league has committed potential civil rights violations related to the Rooney Rule and the other employment practices, policies and programs.

Comic Bert Kreischer stars in a 3-minute video to help his hometown team unveil its 2026 slate, which begins Sept. 13 at Cincinnati. The home opener is the following week against Cleveland.

Attorney General James Uthmeier is investigating possible civil rights violations related to the rule, which requires teams to interview at least two minority candidates for coach and GM positions.

After adding Rueben Bain Jr. in Round 1, the Bucs come back with an NFL legacy pick in Josiah Trotter, defensive back Keionte Scott, a UM teammate of Bain, and imposing receiver Ted Hurst.

Bain should immediately improve a defense that has struggled to find a legitimate pass rusher. Tampa Bay GM Jason Licht was pleasantly surprised a player of Bain's caliber dropped to the 15th pick.

The draft is deep at edge rusher, so Tampa Bay should have several options with the 15th pick in the first round. Trading down is also a possibility for a team that could use more draft capital in the early rounds.

Tampa Bay holds the 15th pick on Thursday night. That likely won't happen until at least 9:30, giving partygoers time to partake in the "immersive fan activities, giveaways and bar takeovers."

Discussions about needs and costs come as the NFL team nears a 2027 decision on extending its lease, and the Rays are seeking about $1.15 billion in public money for a new ballpark across the street.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged the changing political landscape for diversity initiatives in the U.S., but added that he didn’t believe there should be any legal issues with the league’s policy.

The 36-year-old linebacker was the heart and soul of Tampa Bay’s defense, helping the Buccaneers win a Super Bowl by dominating Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9 on Feb. 7, 2021.