Shaq Barrett's Waiver News

In a surprising turn of events, veteran edge rusher Shaq Barrett is reportedly being waived by the Miami Dolphins this Thursday, opening the door for a potential return to the NFL before the 2024 season wraps up.

Retirement and Desire to Return

Barrett's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, shared the news with ESPN, highlighting that while Barrett had initially retired prior to the start of the season, he expressed a desire to return to the field as recently as last month. The Dolphins held off on taking action at that time, but it appears they have now changed their strategy, allowing Barrett the opportunity to step back into the competitive arena.

Implications of Clearing Waivers

If Barrett clears waivers and secures a deal with another team, he could be eligible to play in Week 18 and into the postseason. However, it's crucial to note that if another team claims him off waivers, he would remain on the reserve/retired list and would not be permitted to play.

Agent's Statements and Outlook

Rosenhaus expressed gratitude towards the Dolphins for allowing Barrett this chance, stating, "We appreciate the Dolphins giving Shaq this opportunity to continue his career in the NFL. Hopefully he will pass through waivers and become a free agent so he can play again this season. He is in great shape and would be ready to play immediately."

Barrett's Career Performance

Barrett's impressive track record includes 4.5 sacks during his last season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a remarkable total of 59 sacks throughout his career. Given his skill set, Barrett could provide a significant boost to any playoff-bound team's pass rush.

Future Outlook

Teams eyeing a defensive upgrade may closely monitor Barrett's situation, especially if they can secure his services without having to claim him off waivers. As this story develops, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see where Barrett lands and whether he can add to his already impressive NFL legacy. Stay tuned for further updates!