The Buccaneers were one of the teams that didn’t suffer a rash of opt-outs due to the global pandemic but they have had a few of their players on the COVID-19 list. One of them, Ke’Shawn Vaughn, has been on the list since July 27th but has recently been activated according to the team.
Bucs have reinstated rookie running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn from COVID-19 reserve list, where he’d been since July 27. Also re-signed receiver Jaydon Mickens, as we reported Thursday.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) August 9, 2020
Vaughn, a rookie out of Vanderbilt, was drafted in the third round by the Buccaneers in this past April’s NFL Draft. Since being drafted and since being on the COVID-19 list, the Bucs have added to the running back room with the signing of veteran LeSean McCoy to join Vaughn and Ronald Jones.
It is important to note that being added to the COVID-19 list does not signify a positive test. Vaughn could have come in contact with someone and was quarantining for precautionary measures. He will now join the mix at Bucs camp.
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According to Bruce Arians, there is no competition as to who will be the main back in the backfield. He made it clear last week that “RoJo” will be carrying the load. It makes sense given his skill set and familiarity with the Bucs. McCoy will not be asked to carry a heavy load and will be used in spells, similar to how the Patriots utilized multiple running backs with Tom Brady under center for years.
Bucs coach Bruce Arians: “Rojo’s the main guy. He’ll carry the load.” He said the rest of the group will complement him.
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) August 5, 2020
Vaughn, just like any rookie will have to carve out his role on this team. In addition, he will have to earn the trust of a six-time Super Bowl winning quarterback who is not afraid to get the ball to his running back if they can make plays. And Vaughn can do just that as evident by his time at Vanderbilt.
The first step is getting him on the field with the rest of his teammates.
