What happened: NFLonFOX fans selected Tampa Bay Buccaneers LB Rueben Bain Jr. as their preseason prediction for 2026 Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Buccaneers enter the upcoming season with a rookie expected to help set the defensive tone.

Why it matters: Rueben Bain Jr. has enough upside to become a meaningful contributor quickly, but an award case requires week-to-week production before it deserves favorite status. Tampa Bay needs impact from him, yet the public vote is a projection rather than proof.