Three starting linebackers will be free agents in 2027, and the team can’t count on newly acquired Alex Anzalone to carry the torch. The Bucs need to add depth at linebacker, so they have a plug-and-play guy next season. Alabama’s Deontae Lawson is the perfect player with pick 77 in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Lawson is the prototypical middle linebacker, standing 6’3 and 226 pounds. He posted a 4.60 forty at the combine and managed 20 reps at 225 pounds. Run defense is the name of the game for the fifth-year senior. He led the Tide in tackles last season (89), including 4.5 for a loss. He has great speed for the middle of the field and can get to either sideline in no time. He is not as strong against the pass, but he does show promise in zone coverage.

Lawson played more than 2,400 snaps in college, so he has experience, but more importantly, he shows exceptional health and durability. He needs to do a better job of wrapping up at the point of attack. He also needs to show better recognition, as he can be fooled by play action.