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Former Bucs defender gets medically cleared for a return to the NFL
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- Former Bucs defender gets medically cleared for a return to the NFL
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jordan Whitehead has taken a major step toward continuing his NFL career.
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported on X that Whitehead has been fully cleared to return to football following neck surgery. The clearance came from surgeon Alex Vaccaro, who also serves as the Philadelphia Eagles ' spine specialist.
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Whitehead has already worked out for the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans and is expected to meet with additional teams as he searches for his next opportunity. The medical clearance removes the biggest obstacle facing the veteran safety and gives interested clubs a chance to evaluate what he can still provide.
The former fourth-round pick spent five of his first seven NFL seasons in Tampa Bay , including the Buccaneers' Super Bowl championship campaign in 2020. He also played two seasons with the New York Jets before returning to Tampa Bay in 2024.
Whitehead appeared in 12 games during that final season with the Buccaneers and played 731 defensive snaps. According to PFF, he recorded 57 tackles, 17 assists, three pass breakups, and 17 defensive stops while earning a 70.3 run-defense grade. His physical style near the line of scrimmage remained one of the strongest parts of his game.
His coverage production was less consistent, as opposing quarterbacks posted a 130.8 passer rating when targeting him in 2024. Even so, Whitehead's experience, willingness to defend the run, and ability to play multiple roles in the secondary could make him useful as a veteran depth option.
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There is no indication that a deal with the Colts, Texans, or another team is close. Still, being medically cleared and returning to the workout circuit gives Whitehead a legitimate opportunity to continue a career that has already included 93 regular-season appearances and a championship in Tampa Bay.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Former Bucs defender gets medically cleared for a return to the NFL
