Hours before kickoff at Raymond James Stadium vs. the Eagles, the Bucs elevated inside linebacker J.J. Russell and defensive lineman Deadrin Senat to the active roster from the practice squad.

Bucs Beef Up Defense Before Facing Eagles

With their respective promotions, Russell and Senat will both be getting some more regular-season game action.

J.J. Russell stuck with the team following a strong preseason in which he made plays in each game. He intercepted a pass against the Steelers, forced a fumble against the Jets, and led the team with 12 tackles in the preseason finale against the Ravens. It was clear that he deserved to stick around, and he will get a further chance at some reps tonight.

Bucs DT Deadrin Senat – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

With rookie SirVocea Dennis ruled out for the primetime matchup, Russell will presumably take his role and be featured on the special teams unit while being the backup to Lavonte David, Devin White, and K.J. Britt. He played 74% of the team’s special teams snaps during Tampa Bay’s win against the Bears.

While Russell has been on the practice squad since the start of the season, it is a quick elevation for Deadrin Senat. He just signed back with the Bucs less than a week ago after fellow defensive lineman Pat O’Connor was added back to the roster, and now he will be back with the team – with a different number. Instead of wearing his normal No. 95, Senat will now be donning No. 56.

While Russell replaces Dennis, Senat’s role is less clear. Calijah Kancey, another rookie, also will not play tonight, but Senat will not take the starter reps. Over his NFL career, he has started just two games, both with the Falcons as a rookie in 2018. Senat has recorded 51 total tackles and one sack, which came last year in Week 5 against his former team.

The USF alum and former third-round pick is now back in town and will add to the trench depth up front. Facing the Eagles’ stout offensive line, the Bucs will need everyone they can get to wear them down.