Life in the NFL tends to change overnight, and Shilo Sanders is getting a first-hand example of that. The young safety joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason with his head held high as an undrafted free agent. He even tried showing glimpses of promise in preseason, showing he is not just trying to be ‘Prime’s kid.’ Unfortunately, his life had other plans. Earlier this week, the team waived Sanders. What that means? Either the player’s dream ends before it begins and he bids adieu to the NFL forever, or he gets picked by a different team. But, whatever the case, seems like Deion Sanders’ son is ready.

On August 28, the 25-year-old uploaded a YouTube video on his namesake channel titled, “WAIVED By The Buccaneers… What Now?” With the vibe of the video matching the misfortune of the situation, the safety was seen sitting on a balcony as dusk set in. Shilo’s voice was somber, yet hopeful when he began, “I’ve had the best time up here in Tampa, but everything just happens for a reason. And it is what it is. So, I’ve been talking to my agent and we’re waiting on the next opportunity. If that’s in NFL, cool.” 

Further speaking like a man who’s ready for any obstacle headed his way, the player further said, “But God’s blessed me with a lot of talents to do other things other than play football. I feel like in every athlete’s life, it becomes a point where the game ends for you. And I’m not saying that’s what it is now. I’m just saying, mentally I’m good. I know that I got a lot of talents and I’ve been blessed,” before continuing, “Nothing’s ever certain. Even if you make the team, it’s not certain. So you always want to not really have a backup plan. But you always want to have other interests that you’re interested in. And I’ve always done that my whole life: Playing football, with music, acting, modeling.”

“I’m well versed and my parents made sure of that. So, I’ve been prepared for anything to happen because you never know what could happen. But I truly believe God got a big plan for me and I’m grateful to bring y’all along with me and keep y’all updated on everything.” For Shilo, the path ahead may not look like the traditional NFL rise, but that’s not necessarily an ultimatum. And since he mentioned his interest in acting, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him in Hollywood.

After all, history is full of men who found a second life outside the line of scrimmage. Bubba Smith is just such an example: he played ten seasons in the NFL before trading in his cleats for Hollywood. Smith was a TV actor, appearing in such longtime favorites as Good Times, and the Police Academy films. His professional acting career extended far longer than his on-field career did. It showcased that sometimes the best pages get written after the game has been played.

The same can be said of Carl Weathers, who was a brief NFL player for the Oakland Raiders before embarking on a classic entertainment career. His work in Rocky and Predator made him a household name. And his steady output in film and television established him as the icon of the transition being done correctly.

Terry Crews, after four seasons of bouncing from one NFL roster to another, reinvented himself as a versatility-first comedian and actor. He made appearances on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Everybody Hates Chris, among others. Their stories reflect a simple fact: the NFL might be a stepping stone, but it does not have to be the destination.

Waived before the cutdown

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made their stance clear on Sunday, informing rookie safety Shilo Sanders that he is being waived, as confirmed by his agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

With NFL teams trimming their rosters to the 53-man limit on Tuesday’s deadline, his representatives are hopeful that another franchise will offer him a chance. But the timing of the departure is not exactly favorable for the former Buff. The decision to waive came less than 24 hours after Sanders’ most controversial moment of the preseason. Being ejected from a game against the Buffalo Bills brought reactions from coaches and analysts alike. The fight happened during the second quarter, when Sanders, who had been physically blocked by tight end Zach Davidson, lashed back with a punch.

The referee raised the flag, and the rookie’s night was over. Cameras caught Bucs linebacker John Bullock stepping in to calm Sanders. Even the head coach, Todd Bowles, shot an icy glare in the rookie’s direction. After the game, Bowles was not shy in his assessment. “You can’t throw punches in this league — that’s inexcusable,” Bowles said. “They’re going to get you every time. You’ve got to grow from that.”

Earlier in the game, he was also charged with defensive pass interference, yet again pointing out his coverage issues. Sanders had been battling for the fourth and final safety spot heading into camp. That fight now apparently is over, at least in Tampa. Hopefully, he’ll find a new battle to pick soon…