Introduction
Shilo Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2025. The young safety signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after going unselected in the draft, launching a highly watched—but rocky—start to his professional career. But after an unfortunate on-field incident led to his release, speculation has swirled: Which team could give him another chance? Could the Pittsburgh Steelers, who once showed interest, be his landing spot? In this article, we chronicle Shilo Sanders’ journey, dissect his NFL prospects, and explore the latest rumors about a potential fit with the Steelers or another team.
1. The Journey So Far: From Undrafted Signing to Release
-
College pedigree and signing with the Bucs
Shilo played for South Carolina, Jackson State, and most recently Colorado, where he posted solid stats—229 tackles, six interceptions, multiple pass breakups—and earned credentials as a hard-hitting safety. -
After going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Shilo signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a rookie free agent, attracted to their defensive vision and leadership under coach Todd Bowles and his staff. His contract reportedly spanned three years with a total value of about $2.965 million.
-
Preseason rollercoaster
In his early preseason outing vs. the Titans, he showed energy and potential. But in the following game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, analysts criticized his showings—he missed tackles, failed to make impactful plays, with one calling it “he both figuratively and literally fell flat on his face”. -
Ejection and release
On August 23, 2025, during the Buccaneers’ preseason finale vs. the Buffalo Bills, Shilo was ejected for punching TE Zach Davidson—a move coach Todd Bowles labeled “inexcusable.” The next day, he was waived from the team.
2. Why the Steelers Connection?
-
Early interest at the showcase
At Colorado’s NFL showcase and pro day, Shilo connected with Pittsburgh Steelers scouts. He clocked a 40-yard dash in about 4.52 seconds, drawing positive attention from their West-Coast scouting department. -
Logical fit for Pittsburgh
Analysts noted the Steelers’ consistent defensive identity and occasional need for depth at safety, making Shilo a potential low-risk, developmental asset late in the draft or as a free agent. -
Recent buzz
With his release now official, the Steelers have emerged again in recent media as a projected landing spot, with outlets like Yahoo Sports and others naming Pittsburgh among likely suitors—though nothing is confirmed yet.
3. Other Potential Landing Spots
-
Practice squad or other teams
After being waived, speculation suggests he might end up on a Bucs practice squad if he clears waivers. His sincerity and regret following the ejection could sway Tampa to reconsider in some capacity. -
Other teams in the mix
Reports highlight the Bengals and Bills along with the Steelers as possible landing spots, noting teams often value versatility and special teams capability in undrafted defensive backs. -
Bleacher Report take
Another analysis listed top landing spots post-waiver—including Tampa Bay’s relegation, but also nodding to other teams that could offer him a role, even if only on the practice squad. -
Outlook
As of now, no team has formally picked him up. But his agents—Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey—are actively exploring options. Shilo Sanders Steelers new team.
4. Implications of the Release & Future Path
-
Family legacy and scrutiny
Being the son of Deion Sanders brings both attention and pressure. His release triggered debates—some fans allege racial bias or league targeting, though these remain speculative. -
Public response
Antonio Brown even publicly criticized the Sanders family, heightening the media spotlight on Shilo’s situation. -
Learning curve ahead
While the setback is significant, undrafted players often navigate the NFL through persistence, practice squad roles, and taking advantage of small windows. Shilo’s mix of pedigree, effort, and prior flashes could still create a second chance.
5. Conclusion & What to Watch
Shilo Sanders’ NFL journey is at a crossroads. After signing with the Buccaneers and showing glimpses of promise, a costly mistake ended his chance—at least for now. Yet, with interest from teams like the Steelers and others, there’s still a path forward. Will Pittsburgh take a flyer? Will Tampa keep him in house on the practice squad? Or will another team offer a fresh start? His next move and performance in the coming weeks will shape whether this is a brief detour—or a redirection—for the younger Sanders. Shilo Sanders Steelers new team.
FAQs
-
Who is Shilo Sanders?
Shilo Sanders is a safety and the eldest son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. After playing at South Carolina, Jackson State, and Colorado, he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2025 but was recently released. -
Why did the Buccaneers cut him?
He was ejected from a preseason game against the Bills for throwing a punch—an act coach Todd Bowles labeled “inexcusable.” He was waived the next day. -
Did the Pittsburgh Steelers ever seriously pursue him?
Prior to the draft, Steelers scouts showed interest during Colorado’s pro day, and analysts listed them among logical fits. More recently, several outlets have emerged projecting Pittsburgh as a potential landing spot—but no signing has occurred yet. -
What are other teams that could pick him up?
In addition to the Steelers, media reports mention the Bengals and Bills. There’s also a chance he could join the Buccaneers’ practice squad if he clears waivers. -
What happens next for Shilo?
His agents are exploring opportunities. He may land on a practice squad or get invited to camp elsewhere. His path forward depends on teams’ need for depth, his performance, and his ability to stay disciplined.
