Rumors Bucs Former Linebacker ‘Back in the Saddle Again’

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers seized control in Week 12 with a commanding 30-7 victory over the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Despite the convincing win, Tampa Bay faced adversity on the injury front, losing linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka to an ankle injury and safety Jordan Whitehead to a pectoral injury.

These losses have fueled rumors of a potential return by former Bucs linebacker Shaquil Barrett, who retired just before training camp in July after signing a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. 

Multiple reports indicate Barrett is negotiating his release from Miami to rejoin Tampa Bay, a team he helped lead to a Super Bowl title in 2020.

The 32-year-old Barrett spent five seasons with the Buccaneers from 2019 to 2023, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2019 and 2021. 

His impact was monumental, particularly during his 19.5-sack season in 2019, which led the NFL. Over his career, Barrett has tallied 59 sacks, 23 forced fumbles, and three interceptions, cementing his reputation as a game-changing edge rusher.

Meanwhile, the Buccaneers improved to 5-6, remaining one game behind the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC South standings. Next up, Tampa Bay hosts the struggling 3-8 Carolina Panthers in a pivotal divisional matchup. 

The Bucs will look to maintain their offensive rhythm, led by Baker Mayfield and a surging ground attack, to solidify their playoff position in a competitive NFC South race.

A potential Barrett return would provide a major boost to a defense already dealing with depth concerns, particularly with critical divisional matchups on the horizon. 

Whether the rumors materialize or not, Tampa Bay is laser-focused on sustaining its momentum as the postseason looms, aiming to fortify both sides of the ball for a strong push through the tightly contested NFC South.