Overview

• Shaquil Barrett, 32, signed a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being waived by the Miami Dolphins earlier this week.
• Barrett, who retired in July, applied for reinstatement in November and cleared waivers on Friday, paving the way for his return to Tampa Bay.
• The linebacker spent five seasons with the Buccaneers (2019-2023), earning two Pro Bowl selections and leading the league in sacks in 2019 with a franchise-record 19.5.
• Barrett's return comes as the Buccaneers, tied with the Falcons at 8-7, aim to secure the NFC South title but must overcome Atlanta's tiebreaker advantage.
• Barrett is not expected to play in Week 17 against the Panthers but could contribute in Week 18 as Tampa Bay seeks to strengthen its struggling pass rush.