Is Shilo Sanders Facing Suspension? What Will Happen After Punch on Zach Davidson Got Him Ejected

Shilo Sanders, rookie safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was ejected on Saturday during a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills after throwing a punch at tight end Zach Davidson.

The incident occurred in the second quarter in Buffalo, where an on-field altercation escalated and led to Sanders being penalised, ejected, and placed under immediate scrutiny.

The episode has raised questions over whether the undrafted player could now face suspension, threatening both his NFL career and his future with the Buccaneers.

Background of the Incident

The clash between Sanders and Bills tight end Zach Davidson began during routine coverage but quickly turned physical. After initial contact, Sanders retaliated by striking Davidson with a closed fist.

Officials flagged the play and ejected Sanders, enforcing a penalty that set up an 11-yard touchdown for the Bills.

The moment shifted the game's momentum and drew sharp criticism, particularly given the importance of the Buccaneers' preseason finale in deciding final roster spots.

Coach Todd Bowles' Reaction

Head coach Todd Bowles did not hold back in his assessment of Sanders' behaviour. Bowles labelled the punch 'inexcusable' and reminded the team that such actions are not tolerated in the NFL. He added: 'You have got to grow from that.'

According to ESPN, Sanders threw the punch after heavy pushing and shoving with Davidson, creating the unnecessary roughness call that led to his ejection.

Bowles' remarks underlined the high standards of discipline expected from players, particularly those fighting to secure a role on the 53-man roster.

His response has intensified speculation about whether the team will retain Sanders or consider his actions too costly.

Impact on Sanders' Roster Chances

As an undrafted free agent, Sanders entered training camp with much to prove. His early performances, including a solid debut where he registered a tackle and a quarterback hit, showed potential.

However, with roster cuts looming, the ejection could damage his standing with the Buccaneers. Analysts note that for a rookie with little margin for error, a high-profile altercation such as this could weigh heavily against him during evaluations.

Possible NFL Punishment

The NFL maintains strict rules on unsportsmanlike conduct and fighting on the field. Historical precedent shows that players who throw punches can face further sanctions, including fines or suspensions, depending on the severity of the act and its impact on the game.

Although no official statement has been released regarding Sanders' punishment, league insiders suggest that his conduct will likely be reviewed, raising the possibility of additional discipline beyond the ejection.

Off-Field Legal and Financial Troubles

Away from football, Sanders faces significant personal challenges. He is currently dealing with a default judgment of around £8.79 million ($11.9 million) related to a 2015 incident involving a security guard.

To address these debts, he has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, seeking a financial reset. The resurfacing of these issues alongside his ejection has placed his career under heightened scrutiny, with questions over whether his off-field difficulties could affect team decisions.

The Sanders Family Context

Shilo Sanders is the eldest son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, who is now the head coach at the University of Colorado.

His younger brother, Shedeur Sanders, was drafted by the Cleveland Browns earlier this year but endured a difficult preseason debut, taking five sacks.

Deion Sanders responded cryptically to his sons' recent setbacks by posting a Bible verse on social media, fuelling speculation about his views on the challenges they face.

Public and Media Reaction

The punch and subsequent ejection have sparked widespread reaction online. Social media platforms quickly circulated clips of Sanders striking Davidson, with many commentators questioning his temperament.

Media outlets have also revisited Sanders' past controversies, including his bankruptcy case and reported clashes with college teammates, to contextualise the latest incident. The story has become a focal point in discussions about discipline, image and the challenges of living up to the Sanders family legacy in the NFL.