One of the more intriguing names to watch in Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp and throughout the preseason is undrafted rookie safety Shilo Sanders — the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders. Shilo spent his entire college career playing alongside his brother, Shedeur Sanders, and under the coaching of his father, first at Jackson State and then at Colorado for the last two seasons. Although going undrafted typically presents a steep climb to making a 53-man roster, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed optimism about Sanders’ chances ahead of preseason action next week.
Todd Bowles Sends Telling Message on Shilo Sanders' Roster Chances originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
One of the more intriguing names to watch in Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp and throughout the preseason is undrafted rookie safety Shilo Sanders — the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders.
Shilo spent his entire college career playing alongside his brother, Shedeur Sanders, and under the coaching of his father, first at Jackson State and then at Colorado for the last two seasons.
Although going undrafted typically presents a steep climb to making a 53-man roster, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed optimism about Sanders’ chances ahead of preseason action next week.
“He’s coming along,” Bowles said. “He’s getting the scheme down. He’s made plays like everybody else back there. There are a few tests that come up during the preseason — Tuesday night was one, and the other three preseason games and practices will be others. He’s got a chance to make it.”
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Shilo Sanders will certainly get his fair shot to prove his value during the preseason, giving himself a chance to earn a spot on the Buccaneers’ 53-man roster — or, more realistically at this stage, a place on the practice squad.
Tampa Bay’s starting secondary already appears mostly set. At cornerback, Zyon McCollum and Jamel Dean lead the group, while Antoine Winfield Jr., Christian Izien, and Tykee Smith are considered roster locks at safety.
As always after practice, Shilo Sanders going to the fans and signing autographs 🙏❤️🏴☠️ #WeAreTheKrewe(my video) pic.twitter.com/hUIon8PRhd
— CHAMPA BAY (@bucsnationx210) August 1, 2025
The Bucs will likely keep at least four additional cornerbacks behind McCollum and Dean. But carrying more than four safeties on the active roster is unlikely, which would leave just one potential opening. Sanders will be competing for that final spot alongside J.J. Roberts, Kaevon Merriweather, Marcus Banks, and Rashad Wisdom.
Related: Shedeur Sanders had interesting changes at Browns camp
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
