Report Details How Bucs Really Feel About Shilo Sanders After Cutting Him

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Aug 24, 2025 7:19 PM ET

Shilo Sanders' actions in Saturday's preseason game vs. the Bills might've cost him a roster spot in Tampa, but the organization still reportedly has positive things to say about the undrafted Colorado safety.

Sanders was ejected in the first half last night after getting into it with tight end Zach Davidson and throwing a punch to the head/neck area.

Different angles of the exchange show it wasn't as one sided as officials might've initially thought. However, it still was unbecoming of a player looking to impress their team with limited positions available.

The Buccaneers waived the 25-year-old rookie earlier this morning citing Sanders "inexcusable" behavior. With head coach Todd Bowles telling the media yesterday, "You can't throw punches in this league ... They're going to get you every time. You've got to grow from that."

Aug 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Shilo Sanders (28) watches a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images© Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Bucs share true feelings on Shilo

But while Tampa Bay might've been disappointed in Sanders' actions in this weekend's finale, the team reportedly liked a lot of what they saw from the ex-Buffs star and could be open to re-signing him down the line.

According to Mike Florio of NBC's ProFootballTalk: "We’re told that the Buccaneers enjoyed having Shilo in the building, viewing the son of Deion Sanders as a good kid, who was at all times respectful to everyone. Shilo was also immediately remorseful following the incident that disqualified him from the second quarter of the game against the Bills."

"Sanders could, in theory, sign with the Bucs’ practice squad, after clearing waivers," Florio added. "The bigger question is whether he’s good enough to compete and to play at the NFL level."

What's next?

Shilo had been competing with Bucs safeties Kaevon Merriweather and Rashad Wisdom for the final backup spot behind All-Pro Antoine Winfield Jr., Tykee Smith and Christian Izien.

Unfortunately for Sanders, he wasn't viewed as an NFL caliber athlete coming out of college (as evidenced by his going undrafted). But there's still a chance he's able to make the most of his next opportunity should one come by.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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