A few years back, Shaquil Barrett was doing really well with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was one of the best players, getting 19.5 sacks in 2019. When Tom Brady joined the team, Barrett helped them win another Super Bowl.
Injuries have slowed him down recently.
Now 32, Barrett has been dealing with injuries for a couple of years. He tried to keep playing by signing a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins for $7 million. But then he surprised everyone by announcing his retirement just before training camp started in July.
He attempted a comeback in November, but Miami wasn’t interested in activating him after he asked to return. Just a month later, the Dolphins decided to let him go entirely, cutting ties with the two-time Pro Bowler.
Barrett can still play this season if he clears waivers. NFL agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that Barrett is eager to continue playing. Rosenhaus said, “We appreciate the Dolphins giving Shaq this opportunity to continue his career in the NFL.” The hope is that Barrett clears waivers and becomes a free agent, ready to jump back into action immediately if needed.
According to NFL rules, if Barrett is claimed on waivers, he can’t play this season. However, if no team claims him, he can sign as a free agent and suit up again.
In 2023, he played 16 games for the Buccaneers but didn’t seem as quick as before. From 2019 to 2021, he racked up 37.5 sacks and 39 tackles for loss. But in 2022, injuries limited him to just three sacks in eight games. This year, he managed only 4.5 sacks.
Yet there’s still hope for Barrett. He might offer valuable experience and leadership to teams aiming for the playoffs. His presence could be especially helpful for teams with young players or those dealing with injuries in their lineup.
With some time off, he might just have enough left to make an impact once more.