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About the Author: J.C. Allen
Latest Bucs Headlines
In a flurry of moves, the Bucs announced they have re-signed wide receiver Justin Watson to the practice squad.
We've re-signed WR Justin Watson to the practice squad and released P Sterling Hofrichter and CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson.
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) January 18, 2022
Watson was released from the 53-man roster on Saturday, along with corner Rashad Robinson. They were waived to make room for the return of Lavonte David and Giovani Bernard off of injured reserve. Watson missed nearly the entire regular season after undergoing knee surgery in August. The fourth-year receiver returned from PUP to play in one game, but did not record a stat. He provides insurance for the receiver room in case of injury. Last season he led Tampa Bay in special teams tackles.
The Bucs also released punter Sterling Hofrichter and cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson. Hofrichter filled in during Weeks 16 and 17 when Bradley Pinion was out with a hip injury and COVID. He filled in admirably, averaging 37.8 gross yards per punt, with a net of 33.7. Wreh-Wilson was signed in Week 7 and was elevated just once from the practice squad.
In addition, the team announced they have protected four players ahead of the Divisional Round matchup against the Rams.
Practice squad protections for the Divisional Round ⬇️
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) January 18, 2022
Newly signed receiver John Brown tops the list. He is joined by mainstay Jose Borregales, Codey McElroy and Kenjon Barner. McElroy has been elevated the past two weeks, while Barner is an emergency return man. The veteran saw most of his work this season when Jaelon Darden was in the concussion protocol.
The Bucs have one open spot on their practice squad with one more move to be made if Leonard Fournette returns on Sunday.
