Shaq Barrett’s time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has officially come to an end. This is after the Bucs announced the team’s decision to release the two-time Pro Bowl linebacker. This officially signals the end of the 31-year-old’s five-year stint in Tampa, which resulted in no less than two Super Bowl wins.
It was a tough decision to make for the Bucs, but it was something that had to be done. This move now allows the team to clear up to $5 million in cap space ahead of the new season.
Shaq Barrett’s Wife Sends Heartfelt Message After Tampa Bay Buccaneers Release
To be completely honest, this isn’t a total shocker. Barrett did not have his best year as a Buc last season, and there have been previous indications that he was going to get the short end of the stick as Tampa looked to clear as much cap room as they possibly could ahead of free agency.
Not even Barrett’s own wife, Jordanna, was completely surprised by this development. She took to Instagram shortly after news broke of her husband’s release as she thanked the Buccaneers for everything:
“Well the news is out. And we are sad! But truly it’s a business! Tampa will forever hold such a special place in my heart! The community we have here, is incredible. We’ve never felt so loved and valued. Thank you to the Bucs, who undoubtedly have become family. Through the hardest year of our lives, the love and support they gave us is unmatched! And we are forever thankful! Who knows where the next road will lead us, but for now we’re enjoying off season and are excited to see what’s next! #TGBTG”
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That’s all class from Mrs. Barrett, and I’m pretty sure Shaq seems the same way as well. As they always say, all good things must come to an end.
The decision to cut ties with the veteran OLB is a calculated move by the Bucs. As mentioned earlier, they’re doing everything they can to free up space for the likes of Mike Evans and Baker Mayfield. Tampa is not there yet in terms of securing these two to new deals, but Barrett’s release is a step in this direction.
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