The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a strategic move to enhance their secondary by claiming cornerback Kevin Knowles off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs. This addition comes as the Buccaneers look to solidify their defensive lineup ahead of the upcoming NFL season. To accommodate Knowles on the active roster, the team waived rookie linebacker Caden Fordham.
At just 23 years old, Knowles is entering his second season in the NFL after initially signing with Kansas City as an undrafted free agent in 2025. During his rookie season, he participated in 13 games, where he recorded 15 tackles and two passes defended. Most of his contributions came on special teams, where he played 231 snaps compared to 82 defensive snaps, showcasing his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple areas.
The Buccaneers currently have a young group of cornerbacks behind their projected starters, Zyon McCollum and Jacob Parrish. This includes players like Benjamin Morrison, Keionte Scott, and Ayden Garnes. The addition of Knowles provides head coach Todd Bowles with another developmental option who has already demonstrated his capability to contribute during games. Knowles previously played as a nickel cornerback for Florida State in 2024, finishing that season with impressive stats that included 32 tackles, four pass breakups, two tackles for loss, and one sack.
While Knowles' defensive skills are noteworthy, his experience in special teams could be the key to securing a consistent role with the Buccaneers. He proved to be a valuable asset to Kansas City’s coverage units during his rookie year and has experience as a gunner, a position critical for special teams success. This is particularly important for Tampa Bay, which faced several challenges in special teams during the preseason, including allowing a punt-return touchdown against Jacksonville in their final exhibition game.
The connection between the Buccaneers and Chiefs regarding roster moves is also interesting. Knowles initially survived the Chiefs' cuts and made their 53-man roster, but Kansas City later claimed former Buccaneers edge rusher Jack Pyburn and defensive tackle Bryson Eason off waivers. This forced the Chiefs to create two roster spots, resulting in Knowles being waived, which allowed Tampa Bay to seize the opportunity to claim him.
As the Buccaneers prepare for the season, the addition of Kevin Knowles adds depth and flexibility to their secondary, while also addressing some of the special teams issues that have plagued the team in recent times. With the NFL season just around the corner, Knowles will have the chance to prove his worth and make a significant impact on the field.
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