The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released rookie safety Shilo Sanders following his preseason ejection for throwing a punch. Details on his NFL future, roster cuts, and off-field challenges.
Shilo Sanders Buccaneers Release Shocks NFL Fans
The NFL world was abuzz Tuesday after reports confirmed the Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release, just days after the rookie safety was ejected from a preseason game for throwing a punch. Sanders, 25, is the son of NFL Hall of Famer and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, and the brother of Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
Although the move comes as part of the NFL’s mandatory 53-man roster cuts, Shilo’s release carries extra attention given his family legacy, college career achievements, and off-field challenges.
Why Was Shilo Sanders Cut?
The Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release followed his ejection from Tampa Bay’s preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills on August 23.
During the second quarter, Sanders struck tight end Zach Davidson in retaliation after a play. Officials immediately flagged him, and he was escorted off the field.
Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles didn’t mince words after the game:
“You can’t throw punches in this league. That’s inexcusable. They’re going to get you every time. Gotta grow from that.”
While one mistake may not define a career, teams often weigh discipline heavily during roster decisions—especially for undrafted free agents competing for limited spots.
NFL Roster Cuts: The Harsh Reality
Every year, NFL teams must trim their preseason rosters to 53 players before the start of the regular season. The Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release was part of Tampa Bay’s compliance with the league’s roster deadline on August 26, 2025.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Roster Cut Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 2025 | Shilo Sanders signs as undrafted free agent |
| August 23, 2025 | Ejected vs Buffalo Bills for throwing a punch |
| August 24, 2025 | Coach Todd Bowles calls action “inexcusable” |
| August 26, 2025 | Tampa Bay announces 53-man roster cuts |
| August 26, 2025 | Reports confirm Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release |
While this marks a setback, it does not necessarily end his NFL journey. Sanders could still join Tampa Bay’s practice squad or sign with another franchise seeking defensive depth.
College Career: From South Carolina to Colorado
Before the Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release, Sanders built a reputation as a hard-hitting ballhawk during his college career.
- South Carolina (2019–2020): Began his collegiate journey with the Gamecocks.
- Jackson State (2021–2022): Played under his father, Deion Sanders, helping elevate the Tigers to national recognition.
- Colorado (2023–2024): Key defensive leader for the Buffaloes, who posted a 9–4 record last season.
At Colorado, Sanders:
- Led the team in tackles in 2023 (70)
- Finished as the third-leading tackler in 2024 (67) despite missing three games with a broken forearm
- Became known for physical play, toughness, and veteran awareness
NFL Opportunity as an Undrafted Free Agent
Sanders went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft but signed with the Buccaneers shortly after.
- Listed as a third-string safety during preseason depth charts
- Viewed as a possible special teams contributor
- Considered a developmental prospect due to experience and football IQ
Unfortunately, the Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release underscores how quickly momentum can shift for undrafted players.
Off-Field Challenges: Bankruptcy and Legal Issues
Beyond the football field, Sanders has faced significant personal struggles. In 2023, he filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in an attempt to resolve more than $11 million in debt.
The debt stemmed from a 2015 altercation in Dallas, when Sanders, then a teenager, allegedly punched and elbowed security guard John Darjean, causing permanent injuries. Darjean later won a civil judgment of $11.89 million.
Sanders has maintained the incident was self-defense, but the legal case remains a shadow over his career.
Family Legacy: Living in the Sanders Spotlight
The Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release is particularly newsworthy because of his famous family ties:
- Deion Sanders: Pro Football Hall of Famer, current Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Shedeur Sanders: Drafted in 2025 by the Cleveland Browns (5th round)
- Shilo Sanders: Middle son, defensive leader at Jackson State and Colorado
The Sanders family has become one of the most talked-about names in football, blending legacy, celebrity, and high expectations. Shilo’s release highlights the difficulty of forging an individual path under that spotlight.
What’s Next for Shilo Sanders?
While the Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release was a setback, his NFL hopes are far from over. Possible outcomes include:
- Tampa Bay Practice Squad – Teams can re-sign released players to their practice squads for development.
- Other NFL Teams – Defensive units looking for depth may take a chance on him.
- Alternate Leagues – Options like the XFL or USFL could provide opportunities to showcase talent.
Todd Bowles’ Approach: Discipline First
For Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles, discipline is non-negotiable. His comments following Sanders’ ejection showed a zero-tolerance stance.
This may serve as a learning moment for Sanders, who must demonstrate maturity and composure if he wants another shot at the NFL.
NFL Preseason Discipline: A Growing Concern
The incident also reflects a larger issue—preseason discipline. Teams increasingly emphasize:
- Player composure under pressure
- Avoiding penalties that cost valuable roster spots
- Balancing aggression with control in competitive environments
The Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release may serve as a cautionary tale for other rookies on the bubble.
FAQs Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release
1. Why was Shilo Sanders released by the Buccaneers?
He was cut as part of the team’s 53-man roster reduction after being ejected for throwing a punch in the preseason.
2. Could he return to the Buccaneers?
Yes, he may be signed to their practice squad if the team still values his potential.
3. What is Shilo Sanders’ college background?
He played at South Carolina, Jackson State, and Colorado, leading his teams in tackles and showcasing physical defensive play.
4. How is he related to Deion Sanders?
He is the middle son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders and brother to Shedeur Sanders.
5. What legal issues has he faced?
He filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2023 due to an $11.89 million civil judgment stemming from a 2015 altercation.
6. What did Todd Bowles say about the incident?
Bowles called the punch “inexcusable” and stressed that discipline is key to surviving in the NFL.
7. Can Shilo Sanders still pursue an NFL career?
Yes, he could join a practice squad, be signed by another team, or explore alternate leagues like the XFL or USFL.
Conclusion
The Shilo Sanders Buccaneers release marks a tough chapter in the young safety’s football journey. From his ejection in a preseason game to his off-field challenges, Sanders faces an uphill climb to secure a long-term NFL career.
Still, with his college pedigree, family legacy, and resilience, his story is far from over. Whether with Tampa Bay, another NFL team, or a different football league, Sanders will have opportunities to prove himself again.
For now, the incident serves as both a setback and a lesson in the unforgiving world of professional football.