Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie safety Shilo Sanders has gone from undrafted free agent to one of the most talked-about players in camp. His engaging personality, connection with fans, and promising on-field performance have elevated his profile. But with the final roster cuts looming, uncertainty hangs over his future. If Tampa Bay decides he’s not among their top 53 players, another team — particularly the Pittsburgh Steelers — could be ready to swoop in and secure his services.
Key Highlights
- Shilo Sanders has emerged as a fan favorite for the Buccaneers after joining as an undrafted free agent.
- His charisma and strong preseason performance have increased his value in the eyes of other NFL teams.
- Steelers writer Ryan Pawloski sees Sanders as a perfect fit for Mike Tomlin’s defense.
- Tampa Bay’s crowded secondary leaves limited space for Sanders on the 53-man roster.
- If cut, Sanders could be quickly signed away before landing on the practice squad.
Sanders’ Rapid Rise in Tampa Bay
Few could have predicted how quickly Sanders would turn heads in Tampa Bay. The undrafted rookie has stood out not only for his ability on the field but also for his approachable, engaging demeanor with fans. In an offseason crowded with roster battles, his story has been one of the more compelling. However, the NFL is an unforgiving business, and roster numbers may work against him. With Tampa Bay’s secondary already loaded with talent, Sanders’ future is far from secure.
Steelers’ Potential Interest
Ryan Pawloski of Still Curtain suggested that Sanders might be the kind of versatile player Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin has been searching for.
“Sanders might be the player Mike Tomlin has been searching for. The Steelers’ long-time coach has preached about adding versatility to the secondary, and that is exactly what the club did when they acquired Jalen Ramsey. If Sanders can make an impact this preseason, Pittsburgh’s thin depth at safety could work in his favor.” – Ryan Pawloski
Pittsburgh’s safety depth has been a concern, and Sanders’ skill set could make him an appealing acquisition. If the Buccaneers try to place him on their practice squad, there’s a strong possibility another team would claim him first.
The Roster Math Problem in Tampa Bay
The challenge for Sanders lies in Tampa Bay’s numbers game. Antoine Winfield Jr. and Tykee Smith are locked in as starters, while Jacob Parrish and Christian Izien are set for nickel roles. Add in cornerbacks like Zyon McCollum, Jamel Dean, and Benjamin Morrison, and the secondary already feels full.
Last season, the Buccaneers carried 11 defensive backs. Based on current projections, at least eight spots are already secured, leaving only three openings for as many as five players competing. If Kaevon Merriweather and J.J. Roberts make the team, that leaves a single spot for Sanders to battle against Bryce Hall, Kindle Vidor, and Tyrek Funderburk.
Final Weeks Could Decide His Fate
Sanders still has time to force Tampa Bay’s hand. With two preseason games left, his performance on defense and special teams could make all the difference. The Buccaneers know his value, but if he’s cut, they risk losing him to a team like the Steelers. While the practice squad might seem like a fallback, interest from other franchises could mean Sanders won’t be available for long. For now, his NFL future remains in the balance — one play could determine where he suits up in Week 1.
News in Brief: Shilo Sanders Buccaneers Steelers
Shilo Sanders’ rise from undrafted rookie to Buccaneers fan favorite has sparked interest from the Pittsburgh Steelers, who could target him if Tampa Bay cuts him. With the Bucs’ secondary depth chart nearly full, roster math may push Sanders out despite his strong preseason. Steelers writer Ryan Pawloski believes his versatility would fit Mike Tomlin’s defense. The Buccaneers must decide whether to secure Sanders on their 53-man roster or risk losing him before he reaches the practice squad.
ALSO READ: Baker Mayfield Credits Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Acceptance for His Unexpected Career Resurgence