Tampa Bay claimed cornerback Kevin Knowles off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs, adding the former Florida State defensive back to the active roster. To make room for Knowles, the Bucs waived rookie linebacker Caden Fordham. Knowles, 23, is entering his second NFL season after originally signing with Kansas City as an undrafted free agent in 2025. He appeared in 13 games as a rookie, recording 15 tackles and two passes defensed while seeing most of his work on special teams. He played 231 special teams snaps compared to 82 defensive snaps.
The Buccaneers have several young cornerbacks behind projected starters Zyon McCollum and Jacob Parrish, including Benjamin Morrison, Keionte Scott and Ayden Garnes. Knowles gives Todd Bowles another developmental
option who has already shown he can contribute on Sundays, and his ability to play in the slot also gives Tampa Bay some additional flexibility. Knowles started at nickel for Florida State in 2024 and finished that season with 32 tackles, four pass breakups, two tackles for loss and a sack.
But special teams could be his clearest path to earning a consistent role. Knowles developed into a valuable member of Kansas City's coverage units as a rookie and has experience working as a gunner. That's notable for a Buccaneers team that had its share of special teams issues throughout the preseason, including surrendering a punt-return touchdown against Jacksonville in the finale. Tampa Bay and Kansas City also share an interesting connection in their roster moves. Knowles initially survived the Chiefs' cuts and made their 53-man roster. Kansas City then claimed former Buccaneers edge rusher Jack Pyburn and defensive tackle Bryson Eason off waivers, forcing the Chiefs to create two roster spots. Knowles was one of the players waived as a result, allowing Tampa Bay to claim him.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers add secondary depth by claiming Kevin Knowles off waivers
