Ayden Garnes lands among PFF’s highest graded rookies

Cornerback Ayden Garnes has been ranked 10th among the highest graded rookies through Week 2 of the 2026 preseason according to Pro Football Focus. He has earned an impressive 86.9 overall grade, placing him among the best performing rookies who have played a minimum of 30 preseason snaps. His coverage skills are particularly noteworthy, as he has an 90.4 grade through two games.

Throughout 53 coverage snaps, Garnes has faced seven targets from opponents, completing just four passes for 54 yards. Despite these receptions, quarterbacks have maintained a low passer rating of 42.3 when targeting him. Furthermore, Garnes has recorded an interception and a pass breakup without allowing a touchdown. Notably, against the New York Jets, he intercepted a Bailey Zappe pass and returned it 47 yards for a touchdown, earning an 91.8 grade in the preseason opener, where he ranked fifth among all rookies after Week 1.

This strong start has allowed Garnes to maintain his position among PFF's top rookies after the second week. This development is crucial as roster cuts are approaching. Tampa Bay has invested significantly in rebuilding its secondary, with young defensive backs Benjamin Morrison, Jacob Parrish, and Keionte Scott already on the roster.

Garnes entered the camp without the security of being a draft pick, making his preseason opportunities even more significant. An undrafted rookie achieving a 90.4 coverage grade while holding opposing quarterbacks to a 42.3 passer rating is hard to overlook. Garnes arrived in Tampa Bay without a guaranteed opportunity, and through two preseason games, he has proven himself to be one of the more intriguing players to watch as the Buccaneers make their final roster decisions.