Bucs, Shaq Barrett agree to four-year deal worth up to $72M

Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett (58) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Buccaneers, Shaquil Barrett agree to four-year deal worth up to $72 million

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/15/21

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have locked up their star pass-rusher before free agency begins later this week.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Buccaneers and Shaquil Barrett have agreed to a four-year deal worth up to $72 million. $36 million is fully guaranteed.

Buccaneers are giving Shaq Barrett a four-year deal worth up $72 million that includes $36 million fully guaranteed, his agent @DrewJRosenhaus told ESPN
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2021

Barrett played the 2020 season on the franchise tag after the two sides were unable to agree to an extension. The 28-year-old recorded two forced fumbles, eight sacks, 57 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss and 16 quarterback hits last season. In 2019, he had a career-high 19.5 sacks.

The Buccaneers have made several moves prior to free agency to retain key players. Wide receiver Chris Godwin received the franchise tag last week and linebackers Lavonte David and Kevin Minter agreed to new deals.

Star quarterback and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady also agreed on an extension through 2022 that saved the Buccaneers $19 million against the 2021 salary cap.

The Buccaneers still need to re-sign Rob Gronkowski, Antonio Brown and Leonard Fournette, among others.

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