The Washington Commanders decided that Robert McDaniel's services were no longer needed, cutting the defensive back during training camp. But just when it seemed like his NFL aspirations were fading, another opportunity emerged days after his departure.
And according to one Washington beat reporter, there is an opening to make a much bigger impact in his new home.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers confirmed the signing of McDaniel on a one-year deal. While it'll be a crash course in picking things up for the 2025 undrafted free agent, and according to David Harrison of WUSA9, the NFC South club was highly impressed with the player during a recent tryout.
Robert McDaniel must seize his second chance after Commanders gave up
Whether it becomes anything more is down to McDaniel, but time is not on his side.
"I’m told the Bucs were very impressed with (Robert) McDaniel’s size, length, and versatility. Tampa Bay has established special-teamers, but there’s absolutely room for somebody who can win a gunner job and improve their punt coverage.
"Coming from a Commanders team with two safeties (Percy Butler and Tyler Owens) among the best on special teams today, there’s hope McDaniel could bring some of those same skills to Tampa."
These traits are what attracted the Commanders to McDaniel after the 2025 NFL Draft concluded. He's long, fast, and physical. Being around the setup last season on the practice squad was beneficial, but the former Jackson State standout couldn't find his way above others on the safety depth chart.
This is all part of the business. But as one door closed for McDaniel, another quickly opened.
The Buccaneers will throw McDaniel into the fire quickly to see how he fares. There are only a couple of weeks before final cuts, so nothing but hitting the ground running will do. And as Harrison stated, there is a window to be part of Tampa Bay's special-teams plans if everything goes as planned.
Washington is well stocked on the special-teams front. One could even say they have a surplus right now, and not everyone will go through.
Some important decisions are upcoming, and Washington's final two preseason games will separate the hopefuls from the also-rans. General manager Adam Peters made up his mind about McDaniel before that, but this report suggests that the Buccaneers see something in the second-year player that can become something more.
There is real urgency for McDaniel to make an impression. Getting a second chance was somewhat surprising, especially so quickly. But if he fluffs his lines in Tampa Bay, there is unlikely to be a third.
McDaniel must seize the moment. Special teams is his only route onto the team, but he's got the athletic gifts to make a statement if he gets a little bit of luck along the way.
It'll be interesting to see if McDaniel can meet the moment. And it could legitimately go either way.
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