Shilo Sanders speeds toward a starting role with the Buccaneers: Speed, instinct, and a legendary name

While his brother Shedeur takes the spotlight with the Cleveland Browns, Shilo Sanders has chosen a quieter but equally impactful path in the NFL.

Far from the media buzz, the young defensive back has quietly built his case, and all signs point to him potentially becoming the starting safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Shilo Sanders: The silent surprise of the Buccaneers training camp?

Shilo Sanders approach has been clear, perform on the field and let his game do the talking. Amid fierce competition in the Bucs secondary, he has emerged as a serious contender for the strong safety role, the only starting spot still up for grabs.

With Antoine Winfield Jr. firmly established as the leader of the deep secondary, the opportunity is there for someone to step up, and Shilo is determined to seize it.

The battle with Tykee Smith: Experience or adaptation?

The main obstacle in his path is Tykee Smith, a versatile player with a successful track record at Georgia, who now faces the challenge of adapting to a new role at safety.

While Smith has excelled in nickel formations, the position shift forces him to cover more ground and face more physical receivers, a transition still in progress.

 

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In contrast, Shilo Sanders holds the advantage. He’s already familiar with this type of role from his days at Colorado, where he stood out for his ability to read plays, apply pressure, and cover both wide receivers and tight ends.

His imposing physique and tactical discipline have allowed him to show consistent performance during training, something the coaching staff hasn’t overlooked.

Tampa Bay’s secondary could be getting a new face

Reports from camp suggest a rejuvenated defense, with a secondary aiming for more aggression and situational intelligence.

In that context, Shilo Sanders fits in as a player who brings energy, versatility, and leadership.

There’s still preseason ahead, but the trend is clear, Sanders isn’t just competing, he’s pulling ahead. If he maintains this level, Tampa Bay might not just have a new starter, but a future defensive cornerstone in the making.