The Buccaneers got good and bad news on the health front on Tuesday. According to a team announcement, star pass rusher Shaq Barrett has been activated from the Reserve/COVID-19 list, but cornerback Richard Sherman has been placed on Injured Reserve for the second time in 2021, a move that ends his season.
In 15 games this year, Barrett has produced 51 total tackles, three forced fumbles and a team-leading 10 sacks. His return – assuming he is able to play on Sunday – would be a major boost to Tampa Bay’s pass rush and defense as a whole. His play from a dominant postseason last year carried over into 2021, as he was voted to the Pro Bowl a second time. Head coach Bruce Arians expects to also have fellow outside linebacker Jason-Pierre Paul back, along with starting running back Leonard Fournette.
As for Sherman, the fact that he was placed on IR again means his Achilles injury was too much to overcome in time for the playoffs. He missed the Bucs' regular-season finale, and had played only sparingly since his first two contests in Tampa Bay. His 11th NFL season ends with him totaling 11 tackles and one interception.
The Bucs will look to defend their Super Bowl title, beginning Sunday afternoon when the host the Eagles.
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