NFL imposes fine on Shilo Sanders for delivered punch

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Part Ways with Rookie Safety Shilo Sanders Following Incident

In a surprising turn of events, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have released rookie safety Shilo Sanders from their roster, just a day after he was ejected for throwing a punch during a preseason contest against the Buffalo Bills on August 23, 2025.

The incident, which occurred in the heat of the game, resulted in Sanders being fined $4,669 by the NFL. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the decision, stating that the team would "move forward with the best 53."

Bowles was unequivocal in his disapproval of Sanders' actions, labelling throwing punches as inexcusable in the NFL. He also made it clear that players would be penalized every time they resort to such tactics.

Sanders' actions did not meet the standards expected in the NFL, according to Bowles. The punch was delivered to tight end Zach Davidson.

Sanders' college football career was marked by playing for his father, Deion Sanders, at Jackson State and Colorado. Over six seasons, he appeared in 52 games with 33 starts, amassing 217 tackles, six interceptions, and five forced fumbles.

Despite his college football success, Sanders was unable to secure a spot on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' roster after his actions during the preseason contest. At the age of 25, he was listed as a third-string safety on the team's depth chart.

During exhibition play, Sanders contributed four solo tackles. However, these contributions were not enough to overshadow the incident that led to his release.

Sanders' college football career spanned two seasons at South Carolina, two at Jackson State, and two at Colorado. Despite not resulting in making the NFL roster, his college statistics remain impressive.

Sanders needs to learn from this incident and grow as a player, according to Bowles. As the NFL season progresses, it remains to be seen if Sanders will get another opportunity to prove himself in the league.