Former Buccaneers Wide Receiver Arrested Hours After Release Amid Charges of Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct
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Tampa Bay, Florida – November 5, 2025
A difficult day for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers took an unexpected and unfortunate turn Tuesday night. Just hours after being released from the team, veteran wide receiver Sterling Shepard was arrested in downtown Tampa following an alleged incident involving public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest, according to multiple local reports.
Sources familiar with the situation say the incident occurred late Tuesday evening — only a few hours after Shepard was informed of his release, a move made by Tampa Bay to create roster flexibility amid ongoing trade discussions for 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings. Witnesses at the scene described Shepard as “visibly upset” and “under the influence,” pacing and shouting outside a restaurant near the Channel District.
Police arrived at approximately 9:45 p.m., after several bystanders called authorities reporting a disturbance. According to the Tampa Police Department, Shepard allegedly resisted initial attempts by officers to calm him and had to be briefly restrained. No injuries were reported, but the veteran wideout was taken into custody and later booked on multiple misdemeanor charges.
Shepard, 32, had signed a one-year, $1.2 million deal with the Buccaneers in the offseason, hoping to revive his career after eight seasons with the New York Giants. However, his role in Tampa Bay was limited — logging only eight receptions for 85 yards across four games, primarily appearing in limited offensive sets behind Chris Godwin and Mike Evans.
For those who’ve worked with Shepard, the news came as a surprise. Known for his professionalism and calm demeanor, teammates and staff members expressed concern for his well-being rather than frustration over the incident.
The Buccaneers organization issued a statement through head coach Todd Bowles early Wenesday morning, expressing both compassion and concern:
“It’s unfortunate and heartbreaking. Sterling has always carried himself with class here and throughout his career. Everyone goes through tough moments, and when we heard the news, our first response was to reach out and make sure he had the support he needed. Football aside, we care about the person first.”
Shepard was released on bail Wenesday morning and is expected to appear in court later this month. The Buccaneers have not ruled out providing him with post-release assistance through the NFL’s player support and wellness program.
For many inside the locker room, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the pressures that come with roster uncertainty in the NFL — and the toll it can take on even the most seasoned veterans.
In Tampa Bay, the hope isn’t for punishment, but for healing — for a player who’s given everything to the game, now facing a battle far beyond the field.
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