The Tampa Bay Buccaneers placed their franchise tag on Shaq Barrett this offseason and he hasn't signed his tender yet. Even though he hasn't put pen to paper yet, Barrett made it clear that he intends to play for the Buccaneers in 2020.
When asked about his future in Tampa Bay, Barrett left no room for speculation on Monday during an appearance on SiriusXM NFL Radio.
.@Buccaneers LB @ShaquilBarrett provided an update on signing the franchise tag and how they continue to work on a long-term deal in Tampa Bay…
"I am most definitely going to be here next year."
⬇️AUDIO⬇️ | #Buccaneers | #GoBucs pic.twitter.com/CPGsgU0vGn
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) June 29, 2020
Last offseason, the Buccaneers inked Barrett to a one-year, prove-it deal worth $4 million. Before arriving in Tampa Bay, he was with the Denver Broncos, buried on the depth chart behind guys like Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware.
In his first season as a full-time starter for the Buccaneers, Barrett did more than exceed expectations. The 27-year-old edge rusher would record a league-high 19.5 sacks and six forced fumbles in 2019. Altogether, in his first five years with the Broncos, Barrett only had 14 sacks and seven forced fumbles.
Once the 2019 season concluded, the Buccaneers made it known that they'd attempt to negotiate a long-term deal with Barrett. While they couldn't get a multi-year contract in place, Tampa Bay was inclined to use their franchise tag on him.
Some players would be upset at receiving the franchise tag, but the six-year veteran is aware that the circumstances of this offseason have made it tougher for him to earn an extension. Despite getting the franchise tag, the Buccaneers have until July 15 to have a deal in place. At the least, even if they are unable to do so, Barrett isn't going anywhere in 2020.
Follow Us
Subscribe