Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being released by the Miami Dolphins, despite never playing a game for the team.
Shaquil Barrett, a notable NFL edge rusher, has made the decision to return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following his release from the Miami Dolphins’ reserve/retired list. This move comes after Barrett, who initially joined the Dolphins as a free agent in March, decided to retire in July before the start of training camp. However, in a surprising turn of events, Barrett expressed his desire to come out of retirement in late November.
The Miami Dolphins were taken aback by Barrett’s request, as it came during a short week when the team was preparing to face the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving night. Consequently, the Dolphins did not activate him before their deadline and delayed his release, which would have allowed him to join another team quickly. With Miami sitting at a 7-8 record, head coach Mike McDaniel noted that the team saw no competitive disadvantage in waiving Barrett at this stage of the season.
Barrett’s return to the Buccaneers is timely, as the team is locked in a tight race with the Atlanta Falcons for the top spot in the NFC South. Both teams currently hold 8-7 records, but the Falcons have the tiebreaker advantage. The Buccaneers still have a chance to clinch the division title with two games remaining in the regular season.
During his previous tenure with the Buccaneers, Barrett proved to be an exceptional asset, recording 45 sacks, earning two Pro Bowl selections, and contributing to a Super Bowl victory over five seasons. His return is expected to bolster the Buccaneers’ defense as they make a push for the playoffs.
Shaq Barrett’s unexpected return to the Buccaneers underscores his value to the team and highlights the dynamic nature of player movements in the NFL. As Tampa Bay vies for the NFC South title, Barrett’s experience and skill could play a crucial role in the team’s playoff aspirations.
Source: Sun-sentinel
