May 20, 2026, 12:01 p.m. ET
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Bucs fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Tampa Bay.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Bucs, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Bucs fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
FilmNeed a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!Background InfoListed at 6-2/245 lbs.3-Star recruit according to 247 SportsPlayed running back and linebacker in high schoolPlayed baseball in high school2x Second-Team All-Big 12 (2024, 2025)Transferred from Kansas State to Texas TechNotable career stats heading into 2026184 tackles21 combined tackles for a loss and sacksGenerated 4 turnoversNotable numbers from PFF heading into 202677 Career PFF Run Defense Grade63.4 Career PFF Coverage Grade29 HurriesMissed tackle rate of 21.6%108 StopsStrengthsShows excellent awareness in the middle of the fieldProvides excellent run supportSheds blockers efficiently so as not to be taken out of playsSurprises you with his pass coverage abilitySpeed to pursue ball carriers and catch them from behindPlayer Summary
The Texas Tech Red Raiders are going to miss Jacob Rodriguez, but it will be interesting to see Austin Romaine step into the role. He will be able to bring awareness, some decent pass coverage, and run support to the middle of their defense. While he lacks top-tier speed for the position, his instincts and processing speed allow him to be in a position to make a play or recover on a broken one. Romaine is worth paying attention to in 2026 as he is a very interesting linebacker prospect.