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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed fullback Dan Vitale back to their practice squad, according to Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times. The Bucs had a spot open after Evan Spencer retired earlier today.
Thankful for the Tampa organization taking me back, as well as the fans for giving me nonstop support! Gonna work my way up the ladder
— Danny Vitale (@RealDannyVitale) September 9, 2016
The Bucs cut the fullback at the end of preseason, preferring to keep Alan Cross instead. Vitale hadn’t really shown much in practice or in preseason, though the Bucs had high expectations for him as their sixth-round pick.
Vitale was a prolific receiver in college, but wasn’t able to stand out as either a pass-catcher or a blocker — which doesn’t really leave much room for him on the roster. The Buffalo Bills initially picked him up off waivers, but that move was negated when he failed a physical.
Apparently, the Bucs don’t see those physical problems and think he can stick on the practice squad. For when they tire of Alan Cross, I guess.