NFL Free Agency 2017: Russell Shepard is a hot commodity

It looks like Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Russell Shepard is a very hot commodity on the free agent market. Per ESPN’s Jenna Laine, the special teams ace has six teams interested in him, three of which offered to make him a number three wide receiver in addition to his special teams duties.

Shepard has primarily played special teams for the Bucs, and is one of the better punt and kickoff coverage players in the league. He hasn’t had many chances to shine on offense, but has done well when given the opportunity, catching 23 passes for 341 yards and two touchdowns last season.

Shepard was originally a quarterback at LSU, but moved to a special teams/wide receiver in the NFL. He’s spent his entire pro career with the Bucs, where his athleticism made him a valuable special teamer and occasional offensive weapon.

The Bucs are also interested in retaining him, but this interest may price him out of their market — especially given the team’s general reluctance to give him an expanded role on offense.