Shilo Sanders Talks Uncertain NFL Future, Thanks Bucs After Release in New Video

Five days after being released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Shilo Sanders has spoken out about his uncertain NFL future.

In a video released on Friday, Sanders praised the Bucs organization for giving him the opportunity throughout training camp and preseason.

"I had the best time up here in Tampa," Sanders said. "Everybody's always poured in love and support towards me and I'll forever be grateful for that."

Sanders went on to say he's had discussions with his agents about the "next opportunity," whether that's in the NFL or potentially doing something else in the entertainment field.

"I've always [felt that way] my whole life playing football with music, acting, modeling. I'm well versed and my parents made sure of that," said Sanders.

Sanders joined the Bucs as an undrafted free agent after a six-year college career. His final appearance with Tampa came on Aug. 23 in a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

The 25-year-old Sanders was ejected in the second quarter of that game after he threw a punch at Bills tight end Zach Davidson when they got tangled up down the field trying to block each other.

Sanders was viewed as a marginal NFL prospect leading up to the draft. He wasn't among the 329 prospects who received an invite to the scouting combine in February. He did have a solid workout during Colorado's pro day, particularly running the 40 in 4.5 seconds.

Durability was one of the issues that plagued Sanders' college career. He suffered a broken forearm early in the 2024 season that kept him out for three games. He tore his ACL midway through the 2022 campaign at Jackson State.

Being an undrafted free agent meant Sanders had a steep climb to make the final 53-man roster for Tampa Bay coming out of training camp. His release opens the door for another team seeking help in the secondary to potentially give him a look.

Even if things don't work out for Sanders in the NFL, he could attempt to pivot to another entertainment field. He has dabbled in music, including releasing a five-song album titled Hate 2 Love in 2024.