NFL punishes Shilo Sanders with $4,669 fine after ugly incident and Buccaneers release

It has been a turbulent stretch for Shilo Sanders, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, as his NFL dream took another blow. Just a week ago, Sanders was fighting for a roster spot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Now, not only has he been released from the team, but he has also been fined by the league following a heated preseason incident.

NFL fine adds to Shilo Sanders’ growing struggles

During a preseason clash with the Buffalo Bills, Sanders was ejected after throwing a punch in an on-field altercation. The NFL quickly imposed a fine of $4,669 for the incident, a sum that carries more weight for a fringe player than for a star with a guaranteed contract. Sanders managed only one tackle in that game, wrapping up his preseason with four solo tackles and a quarterback hit across three appearances.

The setback is particularly disappointing considering his strong collegiate record at Colorado, where he tallied 137 tackles and returned an interception for a touchdown. Despite flashes of potential, his transition to the pro level has been rocky, and the latest fine only deepens the challenge of finding another opportunity in the league.

Shilo Sanders’s future and family legacy in question

Following his release, Sanders has hinted at exploring a career beyond football, a move that suggests he recognizes the uphill battle of securing an NFL future. His brother, Shedeur Sanders, currently sits as the No. 3 quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, highlighting the different paths the Sanders brothers are on within the league.Also Read: Jason Kelce banned by ESPN from YouTube’s Chargers vs Chiefs coverage after enforcement of strict new rulesFor Shilo, this moment could mark a turning point—whether it’s a comeback attempt or the beginning of a new chapter away from the NFL spotlight.