Shilo Sanders may carry a legendary surname and a highlight reel from his Colorado days, but the NFL doesn’t grant roster spots based on legacy. As an undrafted free agent now trying to break through with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sanders finds himself facing a challenge intensified by roster dynamics and uncertainty at other key positions.
The former Colorado Buffaloes safety signed with the Bucs following the 2024 NFL Draft, and on the surface, it looks like a solid fit. Head coach Todd Bowles, a former NFL defensive back himself, leads a defense-first team in a division that remains wide open.
If there’s a coach who appreciates defensive grit and attitude, it’s Bowles. Tampa Bay has also had success before with the son of an NFL great-just look at All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr., son of former Vikings star Antoine Winfield.
But despite those encouraging signs, Sanders will need to earn his place on a roster that may not be able to afford sentimental decisions.
Offensive depth battles could indirectly affect Sanders’ roster fate
While Sanders will compete directly with other safeties for a spot, his fate may be decided by the other side of the depth chart-specifically, at quarterback and wide receiver.
Tampa Bay are currently juggling a three-way backup quarterback battle behind starter Baker Mayfield. Veteran Kyle Trask, rookie Michael Pratt, and fellow newcomer Connor Bazelak are all in the mix.
If Bowles and his staff decide to keep three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, it could eat into the number of spots available for depth players like Sanders, especially on defense or special teams.
The Bucs surprisingly spent a first-round pick on Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, despite already having Mike Evans and Chris Godwin anchoring their passing game.
Meanwhile, Tez Johnson, a playmaker from Oregon and the adopted brother of Denver’s Bo Nix, was selected in the seventh round. Though his NFL Combine performance underwhelmed, Johnson remains an intriguing prospect. If he flashes during training camp, the team may feel pressure to keep him over depth players elsewhere, again potentially affecting Sanders.
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