The Pewter Plank
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Buccaneers’ Free Agent Decision Report: Russell Shepard

By Alan Schechter

October 23, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Russell Shepard (89) scores a touchdown against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) during the second quarter at Levi
October 23, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Russell Shepard (89) scores a touchdown against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Rashard Robinson (33) during the second quarter at Levi /
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NFL: Oakland Raiders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFL: Oakland Raiders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers /

Why Shepard Should Stay

With the lack of depth at the position, Shepard had the opportunity to become an important piece of the puzzle. To his credit, he posted career numbers. 23 receptions, 341 yards and two touchdowns aren’t impressive, but they were good for the third-best numbers on the team for a wide receiver. Add that to the fact that the resounding belief is that Adam Humphries is only a slot receiver, and you have some real promise here.

His best day came against the 49ers, when he caught five out of six targets for 77 yards and a touchdown. The score came late in the second quarter and put the Bucs ahead to stay. He caught 57.5% of his targets, which isn’t a bad number for a player that served as part of the depth chart.

Let’s think back to that depth chart while we are on the subject. We all know it, so I will say it. It’s not very good. Behind Mike Evans and Humphries, there currently isn’t very much. It might be a smart idea to hang onto a player that has shown ability in limited action. He’s also only 26 years old. He has a lot of years ahead of him.

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