Shilo Sanders’ hopes of enjoying for Buccaneers might quickly be dashed

Shilo Sanders might carry a legendary surname and a spotlight reel from his Colorado days, however the NFL does not grant roster spots primarily based on legacy. As an undrafted free agent now making an attempt to interrupt by way of with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sanders finds himself dealing with a problem intensified by roster dynamics and uncertainty at different key positions.

The previous Colorado Buffaloes security signed with the Bucs following the 2024 NFL Draft, and on the floor, it appears like a strong match. Head coach Todd Bowles, a former NFL defensive again himself, leads a defense-first group in a division that is still extensive open.

If there is a coach who appreciates defensive grit and perspective, it is Bowles. Tampa Bay has additionally had success earlier than with the son of an NFL great-just take a look at All-Professional security Antoine Winfield Jr., son of former Vikings star Antoine Winfield.

However regardless of these encouraging indicators, Sanders might want to earn his place on a roster that won’t have the ability to afford sentimental choices.

Offensive depth battles might not directly have an effect on Sanders’ roster destiny

Whereas Sanders will compete instantly with different safeties for a spot, his destiny could also be determined by the opposite facet of the depth chart-specifically, at quarterback and extensive receiver.

Tampa Bay are at the moment juggling a three-way backup quarterback battle behind starter Baker Mayfield. Veteran Kyle Trask, rookie Michael Pratt, and fellow newcomer Connor Bazelak are all within the combine.

If Bowles and his workers determine to maintain three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, it might eat into the variety of spots accessible for depth gamers like Sanders, particularly on protection or particular groups.

The Bucs surprisingly spent a first-round decide on Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, regardless of already having Mike Evans and Chris Godwin anchoring their passing recreation.

In the meantime, Tez Johnson, a playmaker from Oregon and the adopted brother of Denver’s Bo Nix, was chosen within the seventh spherical. Although his NFL Mix efficiency underwhelmed, Johnson stays an intriguing prospect. If he flashes throughout coaching camp, the group might really feel strain to maintain him over depth gamers elsewhere, once more probably affecting Sanders.