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In a surprise move, the Bucs have released wide receiver/return specialist Jaydon Mickens.
We've activated G John Molcholn from injured reserve. We've also released WR Jaydon Mickens from the active roster & OLB Elijah Ponder from the practice squad.
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 18, 2021
Mickens was released to make room for offensive lineman John Molchon, who has come off the Reserve/Injured list. Rookie Jaelon Darden, the team’s fourth-round draft pick, will replace Mickens as the Bucs’ primary kick and punt returner.
Mickens originally signed to the Bucs practice squad in December of 2019. In 2020 he assumed the role as the team’s kick returner. Mickens returned 14 kickoffs for 340 yards, while returning 16 punts for 99 yards. In the playoff Mickens was spectacular with 10 returns for 222 yards and a long of 43 yards.
Through five games this season Mickens has five kick returns for 129 yards including a long of 41 yards. He was averaging 25.3 yards per return. In the punt game he brought back eight punts for 54 yards. His longest a 12-yard return.
The Bucs also signed veteran cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson to the practice squad and released rookie outside linebacker Elijah Ponder.