Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety and Colorado Boulders alum Shilo Sanders is facing some uncertainty as an undrafted free agent.
Sanders’ chances of making the final roster are in jeopardy; Tampa Bay has stiff competition at the safety position, with J.J. Roberts, Kaevon Merriweather, Christian Izien, Tykee Smith, and Antoine Winfield Jr. all projected to make the cut over Sanders. But if he doesn’t remain a Buccaneer, could the fan favorite end up with the Denver Broncos?
Denver Broncos Could Land Shilo Sanders
As written previously on PFSN, the Broncos’ defense was one of the league’s best in 2024. It only continued to improve over the offseason after adding safety Talanoa Hufanga in free agency, with Patrick Surtain II already leading the secondary.
Shilo landing in Denver would make sense given his familiarity with the area. Folsom Field, Colorado’s home stadium, is a short drive to Empower Field at Mile High, the Broncos’ stadium. Shilo would be close to Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders, his father, and would greatly benefit from being in one of the NFL’s best defensive systems.
Shilo Sanders just sent a MESSAGE in his NFL debut that he belongs in this league.
• 37 total defensive snaps (3rd on team)
• 23 coverage snaps
• 0 targets
• 0 receptions allowed
• 0.0 passer rating allowed
• 1 QB hit
• 1 total tackleSanders was reportedly “making his… pic.twitter.com/pQya7tahxC
— Rookie Watch (@RookieWatxh) August 10, 2025
With six college seasons under his belt between playing at South Carolina and Jackson State, in addition to Colorado, it makes sense for Sanders to end up in the league. After all, he reads the QB’s eyes well, anticipates routes, and is skilled at making pre-snap adjustments.
He had one interception, an 80-yard pick-six, a sack, five pass breakups, five forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries in 21 games at Colorado from 2023 to 2024.
Sanders has acknowledged what’s expected of him in the league and is grateful for an opportunity in the NFL.
“[I’m] happy for this opportunity,” he said at a media availability during the Bucs’ 2025 rookie minicamp. “Just grateful, I want to prepare myself the best I can … The No. 1 thing you need to do as a safety is be able to communicate and be an extension of the defensive coordinator on the field.”
Various scouting reports have also referenced his aggressive tackling style and adaptability, making him a viable contributor on special teams. This is especially important for younger players looking to establish themselves and make some noise in the league.
Denver’s defense could benefit from a 25-year-old safety who brings forceful tackling and turnover instincts. Shilo’s style features disruptive play, which could energize the back end of their secondary.
Shilo Sanders is locking folks up during joint practice vs Tennessee Titans👀🔒 pic.twitter.com/vI0dBW33bE
— GUCCE🦬🐦⬛ (@gucceCU) August 7, 2025
Additionally, as an undrafted free agent, the 6’0″, 195 pound Shilo offers a high potential upside with minimal financial commitment. Why not give him a shot for the Denver roster?
