The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have decided to cut ties with Randy Gregory, a move that seems to have been inevitable given the series of events leading up to this decision. The team had signed Gregory to a one-year, $3 million free-agent contract in April, hoping to bolster their defensive line with his experience and talent. However, Gregory's time with the Buccaneers turned out to be tumultuous, to say the least.
A Rocky Start
From the outset, Gregory's commitment to the team appeared questionable. He never formally joined the Buccaneers in practice, missing the team's minicamp in June and the first 24 days of training camp. This pattern of absenteeism ultimately led the team to release him on Sunday.
Head coach Todd Bowles reflected on the situation, stating, "No, I never found out. I wish him the best. We'll move on from there. You can't miss what you never had." Bowles' comments underscore the sense of resignation that pervaded the organization regarding Gregory’s absence.
A Checkered Past
Gregory's NFL career has been marred by inconsistencies and off-field issues. Originally a second-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys, Gregory showed flashes of brilliance early in his career but struggled to remain on the field. Most recently, he was released by the Denver Broncos halfway through a five-year, $70 million contract. His stint with the Broncos was cut short, leading him to sue both the team and the NFL earlier this offseason.
On top of these legal issues, Gregory was fined over $500,000 last year for testing positive for THC. It’s worth noting that THC was prescribed to him for social anxiety disorder and PTSD, highlighting the complexities of his personal challenges.
Brief Stint with the 49ers
Gregory had a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers during the latter portion of the 2023 season. While this opportunity gave him a chance to showcase his abilities, it was short-lived and didn't result in a permanent stay with the team.
The Buccaneers' Decision
The Buccaneers' decision to release Gregory was driven by a need to free up a roster spot, given his repeated failure to report for team activities. For a team looking to build a cohesive unit heading into the season, Gregory’s absence created an untenable situation. The Buccaneers gambled on his potential impact on the field, but his unavailability ultimately outweighed any benefits he might have brought.
Uncertain Future
Gregory's future in the NFL remains uncertain. At 31 years old, he should theoretically have a few good years left in him. However, his track record of absenteeism and off-field distractions makes him a risky bet for any team. His talent is unquestionable, but the recurring issues that have plagued his career may deter prospective teams from signing him. Only time will tell if we will see Randy Gregory in an NFL uniform again, or if his professional football career has reached an unfortunate standstill.