Buccaneers Safety Embraces His Identity, Separate from Famous Father Deion Sanders

As Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp wraps up, players scatter from the practice field, some reuniting with loved ones, others squeezing in extra work or heading to the training room for treatment.

Shilo Sanders, son of legendary cornerback and college coach Deion “Prime Time” Sanders, runs solo drills on the field. He sprints from the goal line to the 50-yard mark and back. The Florida sun beating down on his pewter helmet. Underneath his No. 28 jersey, he wears a white long-sleeve shirt, a nod to his personal style. A matching towel hangs from his waistband, and a sweatband encircles his neck. A subtle tribute to his Hall of Fame father.

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Sanders, the undrafted rookie safety, notices a group of kids waiting eagerly for autographs at the end zone. Recognizing a chance to connect with his young fans, Sanders invites them to join him for a series of sprints across the field. Together, they run back and forth, their numbers dwindling with each lap until only a few remain after 10 trips. After completing the drills, Sanders takes the time to sign autographs for each enthusiastic young fan. Showing his dedication to his supporters despite being an undrafted player.

As Sanders finishes his drills, older fans leaning over the sideline fence chant his name – “Shi-lo! Shi-lo!” – and he happily obliges, signing dozens of hats, jerseys, and signs. Former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith, now an NFL Network analyst, approaches Sanders and the two engage in conversation. They take positions opposite each other, with Smith sharing insights on how receivers try to separate from defensive backs. After a warm hug, Smith heads back to his broadcast duties, and Sanders makes his way along the field to the Buccaneers’ facility.

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Sanders is drawn back in by more fans calling out for autographs, and he obliges, signing a few more. After lingering for 18 minutes past practice, longer than most of his teammates, Sanders eventually wraps up his day, showing his commitment to connecting with fans.

“I’m putting myself in their shoes,” Sanders via The Athletic. “My dad played in the NFL, and just, you know, seeing some of my favorite players take the time to just shake my hand, say, ‘What’s up,’ it meant a lot when I was younger. So it’s just really cool and builds lasting memories for this whole city and community. They line up and get out here before we’re even here, they stay out here the whole time. They come to our games. The least I could do is acknowledge them, you know? This is an entertainment business.”

Sanders has a natural knack for connecting with people, undoubtedly influenced by his father, Deion Sanders. However, there’s more to him than just his charisma. Sanders possesses a sharp sense of awareness that could be his ticket to making the Buccaneers’ roster, despite the tough competition at his position. This combination of charm and skill has Buccaneers’ coach Todd Bowles believing Shilo has “got a chance” to secure a spot on the team. With his pedigree and talent, Sanders could carve out a role on the practice squad or even the active roster, bringing national attention to Tampa Bay and boosting merchandise sales.

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Behind the fame and fanfare, Sanders knows he’s viewed as just another undrafted rookie by the Buccaneers’ front office and coaching staff. Despite his famous last name and strong social media presence, Sanders is aware that he needs to prove himself on the field to earn his spot on the team.

Sanders is determined to carve out his own identity, separate from his famous father Deion and talented brother Shedeur. Currently buried on the depth chart behind established players like Antoine Winfield Jr., Christian Izien, and others, Sanders is focused on earning his spot. Alongside fellow undrafted rookie JJ Roberts, he’s competing for a roster position, but Sanders is confident in his plan to succeed.

“He’s coming along,” Bowles via The Athletic. “He’s getting the scheme down. He has made plays like everybody else back there. There are a few tests that come up during the preseason. … The three preseason games and practices will be others. He’s got a chance to make it.”

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Sanders’ dad has always given it to him straight, and that’s helped him stay grounded. He knows he won’t easily win a starting spot over Winfield, Izien, or Merriweather. Instead, he’s focusing on putting in the work and excelling on special teams to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Special teams roles are more consistent for him, and he’s made a name for himself on punt coverage, kickoff return, and kickoff coverage units.

“I want to be All-Pro special teams,” Sanders stated when asked about goals via The Athletic. “Show the coaches I could play, and that I play hard and be physical and earn their trust, make it on the field (defensively) one day.”

Sanders’ adaptability and willingness to contribute in various roles, including special teams, reflect his practical approach to the game. He’s someone who recognizes areas where he can make a difference and steps up, even if it means playing a supporting role.

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“It’s just about being real about this situation.” Sanders stated via The Athletic. “If things are going on that you can’t control, it’s not gonna help by moping about it or being sad — just like his situation, be real about it, and it is what it is. And then you have, like, a peace within yourself when you’re OK with any outcome, because, you know God’s got you. That’s why we’re not worried about anything. It’s the same with me here. I just control what I can control. … Keep running to the ball because you can’t coach effort. So, at the end of the day, play hard, play good, physical football and be smart. That’s all I can do.”

The Buccaneers’ coaching staff and veteran players are impressed with Shilo Sanders’ approach, saying he’s doing everything possible to increase his chances of making the team. Head coach Todd Bowles has noted that Sanders is learning the team’s scheme well and has made notable plays, giving him a chance to secure a roster spot. Sanders’ hard work and dedication have earned him praise, and he’ll need to continue performing well in preseason games to solidify his position

“He’s just learning. Every day,” Winfield stated via The Athletic. “He’s getting better and he’s just been doing his thing. I tell the young guys to learn your defense. Once you learn a defense, you can just play football.”

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When Sanders takes the field, flashes of his legendary father occasionally shine through, but he’s carving his own path. Unlike his brother Shedeur, a towering 6’2″ prospect with quarterback potential, Shilo is comfortable being his own player – a 6’0″ safety making his own way.

“I can’t be my dad. Everyone’s different. Everything is different. It’s not 1995 anymore. It’s 2025. So even if I did every little thing like my dad, I still wouldn’t be him.”

Sanders has a clear understanding of his strengths and place on the team, and that self-awareness gives him an edge. He’s not trying to be someone he’s not; instead, he’s focused on maximizing his potential and making a meaningful contribution.

Sanders has a chance to make the Buccaneers’ 53-man roster, according to Coach Todd Bowles. He’s competing with veterans and undrafted free agents for a backup safety spot. Sanders has impressed Bowles with his work ethic and playmaking skills in practice. Sanders may compete for a special teams role or backup spot in the Buccaneers’ secondary. A strong preseason could secure his spot on the team. The preseason games will be crucial in determining his fate.

The BR Rub 

Plainly put, Shilo Sanders gets it. He knows his father’s namesake can only take him so far. At this level, nothing is given, and Sanders is putting in the work.