Shaquil Barrett

Per Greg Auman of The Athletic, LB Shaq Barrett (knee) was practicing with a brace on Thursday for the Bucs.

Fantasy Impact

Barrett suffered a knee injury late in the year but looks to have a chance to make a return as the Bucs get ready to face the Eagles in the playoffs. Barrett is one of the veteran defensive leaders for Tampa and his return would be very welcomed considering the challenges a dual threat QB like Jalen Hurts presents for opposing defenses.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Shaq Barrett and Buccaneers have agreed on a four-year, $72 million deal that includes $36 million fully guaranteed.

Fantasy Impact

This is a big pay day for Barrett. He earned it as well for being a core piece on the elite Buccaneers defense. Barrett appeared in 15 games and had eight sacks in 2020.

The Bucs activated LB Shaquil Barrett from the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Fantasy Impact

However, Devin White remains on the list for now. Barrett should be back for Saturday's Wild Card game against Washington this weekend, which will provide a boost to Tampa Bay's defense.

Buccaneers LB Shaq Barrett (COVID-19) was placed on the league's Reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday and will miss the regular season finale against the Falcons in Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Barrett lead the league in sacks with 19.5 in 2019 and has continued being an impact player on the defensive side of the ball, accounting for 40 quarterback pressures and eight sacks this season. In Barrett's absence, the Bucs will rely on Anthony Nelson and Cam Gill against a streaky but explosive Falcons offense in Week 17.

LB Shaquil Barrett signed his franchise tender worth $15.28 million with the Buccaneers on Wednesday. His agent Drew Rosenhaus is optimistic about a long-term deal.

Fantasy Impact

Barrett will play 2020 under the franchise tag. “There will not be a long-term deal at this time, but optimistic about Shaq's future in Tampa long term,” per Rosenhaus. Barrett will look to secure a long-term deal in the near future and build on his career 2019 campaign. The 27-year-old racked up 58 tackles, 19.5 sacks, one interception and six forced fumbles across 16 games last season.