In a flurry of moves, the Bucs have signed center John Molchon and linebacker J.J. Russell to the active roster from the practice squad. They also announced the signings of outside linebacker JoJo Ozougwu and tackle Justin Skule to the practice squad.
Molchon has been with the Bucs since 2020 when he joined the team as an undrafted free agent. Originally signed on as a guard, he has spent a majority of his time at center for the team. With rookie guard Luke Goedeke dealing with an ankle injury, Molchon provides an extra layer of protection against injuries. New left guard Nick Leverett is also the Bucs top reserve at center, so adding someone with snapping experience was likely deemed necessary. In his three seasons with the team Molchon has yet to see action in a regular season game.
Bucs Adding Depth
The Bucs are down an inside linebacker with K.J. Britt on Injured Reserve, and elevated Russell from the practice squad last week to help out on special teams. His reward is a promotion to the active roster to help back up Lavonte David and Devin White in case of injury and be a factor on team’s units. He joins fellow undrafted rookie Olakunle Fatukasi as the reserve linebackers for Tampa Bay. It’s interesting to note that the Bucs decided not to bring back Kenny Young, who was with the team for five games before his release and has starting experience in the NFL.
Skule rejoins the practice squad after spending four week there earlier this season. He has starting experience with the 49ers and probably marks the end of tackle Fred Johnson’s run with the Bucs. Ozougwu joined Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent and was with the Bucs in training camp until he suffered an injury. He was waived half way through camp with an injury designation and was released from the team’s injured reserve list with an injury settlement. He adds extra depth in case of injury at the outside linebacker spot.
The Bucs didn’t need to make any corresponding moves as the placement of outside linebacker Shaq Barrett on IR and release of tackle Fred Johnson opened spots on the 53-man roster. While the elevations of Molchon and Russell freed up two openings on the practice squad.
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