Anthony Nelson Signs Two-Year Contract with Bucs

TAMPA — Anthony Nelson made the biggest play — and had the best day — of any Bucs player last season.

His forced fumble from Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard Dec. 1 in Charlotte, North Carolina, was recovered by Yaya Diaby, preserving an overtime win that was critical to Tampa Bay winning the NFC South for a fourth straight year.

New Contract

Nelson returned home to his newborn son, Eli, who arrived a few days earlier. It was a typically clutch play for Nelson and the reason the Bucs reached an agreement with the outside linebacker Tuesday on a two-year, $10 million contract that could be worth as much as $12 million.

Impressive Stats

A fourth-round pick out of Iowa in 2019, Nelson has been a valuable role player for the Bucs with a knack for showing up in the biggest moments. Despite playing less than 40% of the defensive snaps, he has 17½ sacks over the past four seasons.

Coach’s Praise

“He’s always played under control,” Bowles said in December. “He plays calm, but he plays tough and he plays smart. He doesn’t have the build of a natural muscular defensive lineman, and he has a baby face — ‘Baby Face Nelson,’ if you will.”

Free Agent Deals

Nelson was the sixth unrestricted free agent to reach a deal with the Bucs since the negotiating period began Monday and the fourth former Tampa Bay player, joining linebacker Lavonte David, wide receiver Chris Godwin and guard Ben Bredeson. Reddick and Broncos punter Riley Dixon also reached deals with the Bucs.

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Conclusion

Anthony Nelson’s recent contract signing with the Bucs solidifies his position as a key player in the team’s defense. With his impressive performance on the field and ability to make crucial plays, Nelson is set to continue making an impact in the upcoming seasons.

FAQs

How many sacks has Anthony Nelson recorded in the past four seasons?

Despite playing less than 40% of the defensive snaps, Nelson has recorded 17½ sacks over the past four seasons.

Which other players have signed deals with the Bucs in the current negotiating period?

Apart from Anthony Nelson, linebacker Lavonte David, wide receiver Chris Godwin, guard Ben Bredeson, edge rusher Haason Reddick, and punter Riley Dixon have also signed deals with the Bucs in the current period.