Shilo Sanders' stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers certainly didn't end the way he had hoped after the team released him during roster cuts and opted not to bring him back on the practice squad after he cleared waivers.
Despite that, Sanders took the time to send a heartfelt message to the organization, thanking them for the opportunity in a heartfelt video shared to his YouTube.
"My time being up here with the Buccaneers has been nothing but great. The city, my teammates, my coaches — everybody has always poured in love and support towards me, and I'll forever be grateful for that," said Sanders. "I truly just want to say I appreciate everyone for everything. I've had the best time up here in Tampa, but everything just happens for a reason..."
Sanders quickly became a fan favorite in Tampa Bay after being signed as an undrafted free agent. He made it a point to interact with fans and endear himself to the community and local media, and based on his popularity and the shock waves surrounding his release, it was clear he had succeeded in winning the hearts of Buccaneers fans.
But ultimately, it was what happened on the field that would determine Sanders' NFL fate, and he simply didn't make enough plays in the preseason to earn one of the few available roster spots in Tampa Bay. Throwing a punch and getting ejected in the preseason finale, a game where he needed to perform, was a mistake he couldn't afford as a player on the roster bubble.
Still, even on his way out the door after a disappointing end to his Buccaneers career, Sanders took the high road, focusing on the lessons he learned, the relationships he built with teammates and coaches, and the fans who supported him along the way.
Sanders continues to wait for his next opportunity, and he isn't limiting himself to just football. He mentioned music, acting, and modelling as alternate paths he could pursue if he doesn't earn another chance in the NFL, and the Buccaneers fans who embraced him will be rooting for him every step of the way.
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