A day after the Bucs beat the Saints in dramatic fashion, 17-16, the team parted ways with wide receiver Jaelon Darden, who was Tampa Bay’s primary punt returner. With Rachaad White taking a more prominent role on offense, Darden was also pressed into action as the kick returner.

Bucs KR-PR Jaelon Darden – Photo by: USA Today

Ironically, Darden averaged 10 yards per punt return against New Orleans, and his lone kickoff on Monday night went for 25 yards. Darden was leading the league in punt returns (31) and return yardage (330) and was seventh in average return with 10.6 yards. However, his longest punt went for just 24 yards.

Darden had a penchant for always running towards the sidelines rather than probe the middle of the field for a potential bigger return, and never found much of a role within the Bucs offense. The 2021 fourth-round pick had six catches for 43 yards during his rookie season, but only two receptions for 26 yards this season, not making much progress as a receiver.

The Bucs could turn to veteran Giovani Bernard to handle kickoff returns and possibly punt returns. Or Tampa Bay may call on Scotty Miller to fill the punt return duties. Devin Thompkins or Kaylon Geiger Sr. might be signed from the practice squad to fill the roster spot at wide receiver. Thompkins also handled some return duties in the preseason and training camp.

Bucs Make Other Practice Squad Moves

The Bucs also made some practice squad moves, releasing offensive tackle Dylan Cook and defensive back Ryan Smith.