The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced their 53-player roster on Saturday. There were no major surprises, but a few disappointments.
Among the most disappointing, but expected, cuts was 2017 fifth-round selection Jeremy McNichols. The Bucs thought the former Boise State star had a chance to develop into a running threat like Doug Martin or Miami’s Jay Ajayi, both former Boise State standouts.
But it was not to be as McNichols, regularly featured on HBO’s Hard Knocks, had an unimpressive training camp. He had his best game of the preseason on Thursday against the Washington Redskins, but it was not enough.
“I felt (Thursday) night was a good opportunity to get a full evaluation where Jeremy is right now,” said Bucs Coach Dirk Koetter.
Right now he is looking for another chance somewhere else. McNichols was the only draft pick to be released.
Another Hard Knocks favorite was undrafted free agent linebacker Riley Bullough. Despite a strong effort, the former Michigan State star had the misfortune of being caught up in a numbers game at the position. He put on a good enough show to almost be guaranteed a spot on another team.
Second-year wide receiver Josh Huff was among those released. Former Florida State star Bobo Wilson was also among those cut.
“You’re saying good-bye to 37 players, which is not fun,” Koetter said on Friday.
Seventh-round choice Stevie Tu’ikolovatu, a defensive lineman from Southern California, and second-year defensive end DaVonte Lambert, were placed on injured reserve.
Starting running back Doug Martin was placed on the suspended list as he serves the remainder of his suspension overlapping from last year.
