The Tampa Bay Buccaneers passed on signing undrafted free agent Will Sheppard, a wide receiver from Colorado, after he didn’t clear the team’s physical exam. Sheppard was considered a potential developmental project, but his college performance and the team’s existing receiver depth likely played a role in the decision as well.
“Colorado receiver Will Sheppard was not among the Bucs’ announced undrafted rookie signings because of a failed physical.”
Will Sheppard’s NFL hopes have been put on hold due to physical concerns. Despite a solid college season where he caught 48 passes for 621 yards and 6 touchdowns. The team’s first-round pick, Emeka Egbuka, likely would’ve added to the challenge of Sheppard making an immediate impact on the roster.
Sheppard will need to resolve the physical issues that were flagged in his exam if he wants to pursue opportunities with other teams, though several franchises have already shown interest in him since the draft.
The Buccaneers’ decision underscores the hurdles undrafted rookies face, especially those viewed as developmental projects. For Sheppard, clearing up his physical issues is crucial to securing a new chance in the NFL.
The actual injury and extent of it is not known at this time. Hopefully it’s something Sheppard can come back from. If he can there’s a lot of talent there to build into a nice NFL career. And hopefully that’s with the Buccaneers.
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