TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are continuing to reshape their defense this offseason, adding veteran linebacker Christian Rozeboom to the roster. The move, announced Monday, brings in a tackling machine who led the Carolina Panthers in that category last season, and marks the second defensive departure from Carolina to join the Buccaneers in recent weeks.
Rozeboom, 29, agreed to terms with Tampa Bay after a season where he recorded 122 total tackles for the Panthers, according to agents Chris Gittings and Jeremiah Sirles, as reported by NFL Network. The Buccaneers are clearly looking to reinforce their defensive front seven as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.
From Undrafted Free Agent to Defensive Leader
Rozeboom’s journey to becoming a key defensive player is a testament to perseverance. Initially entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of South Dakota State in 2020, he spent four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, appearing in 60 games (16 starts). He then signed with the Panthers last March on a one-year, $2.5 million deal, initially intended to provide experienced depth. However, injuries and the release of Josey Jewell thrust him into a starting role, where he thrived.
Last season, Rozeboom started 15 games for the Panthers, setting a novel career high in tackles. While recognized as a reliable run stopper, his pass coverage skills are considered an area for improvement. ESPN noted that this weakness occasionally hurt Carolina in close contests during their playoff push. Despite this, his consistent tackling and leadership qualities were undeniable.
A Second Panther Joins the Buccaneers
Rozeboom isn’t the only player making the move from Carolina to Tampa Bay this offseason. Earlier this month, defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson signed with the Buccaneers after being released by the Panthers. This influx of talent from a division rival signals the Buccaneers’ intent to strengthen their roster and challenge for the NFC South title. The Panthers, despite winning the division in 2025 with an 8-9 record, are undergoing significant changes.
The Buccaneers, a two-time Super Bowl champion franchise, are hoping Rozeboom can provide stability and experience to their linebacker corps. He brings a proven track record of tackling and a physical presence to the defense. His 76 career games played demonstrate his durability and commitment to the game.
Rozeboom’s Statistical Profile
Throughout his NFL career, Rozeboom has accumulated 347 total tackles, three sacks, and three interceptions. He’s demonstrated versatility, similarly contributing with one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. In 2025 with the Panthers, he also recorded 2.0 sacks and one interception, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. The Buccaneers.com highlighted that he was one of only five linebackers league-wide to reach at least 120 tackles, 2.0 sacks, and one interception, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery last season.
His time with the Rams included a Super Bowl LVI championship in 2021, providing him with valuable playoff experience. That experience could prove crucial as the Buccaneers aim to return to postseason contention.
The addition of Rozeboom addresses a need for the Buccaneers, providing competition and depth at the linebacker position. He’ll be expected to contribute immediately, both against the run and in pass coverage. The team will be looking for him to build on his strong performance from last season and grow a key component of their defensive scheme.
The Buccaneers will begin their offseason training program shortly, giving Rozeboom an opportunity to integrate into the team and learn the new defensive system. Fans will be eager to see how he performs and how he fits into the Buccaneers’ plans for the 2026 season.
What’s Next: The Buccaneers will continue to evaluate free agent options and prepare for the NFL Draft in April. The team’s focus will be on addressing remaining needs and building a roster capable of competing for a playoff berth.
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the Buccaneers and the NFL offseason.
