Gregory, who signed with the Buccaneers in the offseason, was expected to bolster the team’s pass rush and add depth to the defensive unit. However, his time in Tampa Bay has been marred by inconsistency and off-field issues that have plagued his career, leading the Buccaneers to reconsider his place on the roster.
Gregory’s release is part of a broader strategy by the Buccaneers’ front office to reshape their defense, focusing on younger, more reliable players. The decision to part ways with Gregory suggests that the team is prioritizing stability and long-term development over the short-term potential that Gregory offers. His struggles with injuries and suspensions throughout his career likely played a significant role in this decision, as the Buccaneers are looking to avoid the uncertainty that has often surrounded Gregory’s availability.
For Gregory, this release marks another setback in what has been a tumultuous NFL career. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Gregory has shown flashes of brilliance as a pass rusher but has been unable to stay on the field consistently. His time with the Cowboys was punctuated by multiple suspensions for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, which limited his playing time and hindered his development as a player. Despite these challenges, Gregory has managed to remain a sought-after talent due to his natural ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offenses.
The Buccaneers’ decision to release Gregory may also be influenced by the emergence of younger linebackers on the roster, who have stepped up during training camp and preseason games. The team is likely looking to give these players more opportunities to develop and contribute during the regular season, making Gregory expendable.
As Gregory hits the free-agent market, his future in the NFL remains uncertain. Teams may be wary of signing him due to his past issues, but his talent as a pass rusher could still attract interest from franchises willing to take a chance on a veteran with something to prove. For now, Gregory’s release from the Buccaneers represents a crossroads in his career, one that could determine whether he continues in the league or faces the possibility of an early exit from professional football.