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Bucs Rookie Edge Bain Addresses Viral Post-Practice Workout
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After a viral workout clip post-practice, Bucs rookie edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. talked about why putting in extra work is so important
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Since being taken No. 15 overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in this past year’s draft, rookie EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. has looked the part as a dynamic first-year pass rusher
Last week, following a grueling practice in the Florida summer heat, Bain was seen getting in additional work by himself, setting up individual drills
This caught the attention of some national media outlets and social media pages, as Bain’s work ethic and dedication has been evident since he was drafted
On Friday, Bain talked to ESPN’s Jenna Laine about why he is putting in extra reps
“I feel like in college most of my plays were made in the fourth quarter…” Bain said. “I know when I’m tired, the O-linemen are a little more tired than me.”
Laine noted that ten of Bain’s 20.5 sacks during his three seasons at Miami came in the fourth quarter, which stands along in that span
Bain is yet to appear in Tampa’s preseason affairs, but looked dominant against the New York Jets in joint practice
Through the two sessions, Bain shined, recording multiple sacks against the Jets’ first-round talent on the offensive line
With Tampa Bay desperately needing help on the edge, Bain fits the mold as a game-wrecker for years to come
At the end of the college football season, Bain was seen as a contender for the No. 1 overall pick, but concerns surrounding his arm length and measurables dropped his stock
But, his production spoke for itself, notching 15.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks en route to Miami’s National Championship game run
His 92.5 overall PFF defensive grade in the 2025 season ranked third among 852 qualified edge defenders
In mid-July, former Bucs Super Bowl-winning head coach Jon Gruden joined the 95.7 WDAE radio show to talk about Bain’s physical “disadvantages” and what he expects from him this season
“Well, I think he can be a double-digit sack guy,” Gruden said. “Now, some of the analytical people are scared of him because of his arm length and some of that stuff. I think he’s a double-digit sack guy.”
While Bain’s main skill is getting to the passer, he is also good in pursuit and run defense
Against the run, Bain recorded 29 solo tackles and forced two fumbles, adding an interception in pass protection
This versatility will only grow as Bain gets more accustomed to head coach Todd Bowles’ system, which is always stout against the run
Having a talent like Bain in the Bucs’ defensive line room should mean more pressure on opposing quarterbacks than years past
Tampa Bay Bucs•Defense•Defensive Line•NFL Draft
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