In an unexpected move, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have released Randy Gregory, a player who never even donned a Buccaneers jersey in practice. Despite being signed to a one-year, $3 million free-agent contract in April, Gregory's time with the team was cut short after a series of no-shows at critical team activities.
Gregory, a second-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys, was expected to bring experience and depth to the Buccaneers' defensive line. However, the 31-year-old's tenure in Tampa Bay was marred by inactivity. He did not report to the team’s minicamp in June, followed by an absence during the first 24 days of training camp. These absences led to the team’s decision to waive him on Sunday, freeing up a valuable roster spot.
A Trail of Issues
Gregory's departure from Tampa Bay is the latest chapter in a career that has been turbulent, to say the least. Just last year, he was released by the Denver Broncos halfway through a five-year, $70 million contract. His release came amidst a fine of over $500,000 after testing positive for THC, a substance prescribed to him for social anxiety disorder and PTSD.
Earlier this offseason, Gregory took legal action against both the Broncos and the NFL, casting a shadow over his prospects of a stable NFL future. His brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers during the latter part of the 2023 season also didn’t yield much fruit, and his failure to report to the Buccaneers compounds the uncertainty about his professional trajectory.
Head Coach's Perspective
Buccaneers' Head Coach Todd Bowles expressed a sentiment of resignation regarding Gregory’s situation. “No, I never found out. I wish him the best. We'll move on from there. You can't miss what you never had,” Bowles said, addressing the media after Gregory’s release became public. His words underline the frustration and disappointment felt by the team, which had hoped to benefit from Gregory’s skills on the field.
Implications for the Team
The Buccaneers' decision to cut ties with Gregory can be seen as a move to restore cohesion and focus within the team. With critical games on the horizon, there's little room for distractions. By freeing up the roster spot, the Buccaneers have prioritized players who are present, committed, and ready to contribute to the team’s goals.
Looking back, Gregory's promising career has faced multiple hurdles. From his early days as a second-round draft pick by the Cowboys to his tumultuous time with the Broncos and his brief tenure with the 49ers, consistency has often eluded him. His battle with mental health—acknowledged through his prescribed use of THC for anxiety and PTSD—adds another layer of complexity to his career narrative.
Future Uncertain
As of now, Randy Gregory's future in the NFL remains uncertain. Teams are likely to be wary of his track record of non-attendance and legal issues. For Gregory, the road ahead requires not only showcasing his undoubted talent but also proving his reliability and dedication to any prospective team.
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, are moving forward, aiming to build on the players they can depend on. Gregory’s brief and inactive stint serves as a reminder of the volatility that can come with high-risk signings.
While the NFL is a league that often offers second chances, Gregory will need to seize his next opportunity—if it comes—with both hands and a renewed commitment, should he wish to avert a premature end to his once-promising career. For now, the Buccaneers will continue their path without him, hoping that this decision brings more stability and focus to their roster.