Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles on Shaq Barrett's presence at minicamp: 'I'm sure it's not easy'
Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Shaq Barrett was present for his team’s start to mandatory minicamp Tuesday — less than two months following the death of his 2-year-old daughter.
The Buccaneers are fully behind Barrett, with head coach Todd Bowles commending him for showing up in a difficult time in his personal life.
“That’s a testament to him,” Bowles said, via NFL.com. “Shaq is one of the mentally toughest character guys I know. To have him out here still trying to get ready — I’m sure it’s not easy — but he’s handling it and we’re behind him.”
Barrett’s youngest child, Arrayah, drowned in the family’s swimming pool on April 30 after falling in.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family,” the Buccaneer said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time. While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”
Many from within the NFL community offered their thoughts, prayers and condolences for Barrett and his family. Several posted heartfelt messages on social media in response to Tampa Bay’s statement. Barrett’s wife, Jordanna, took to Instagram to thank everyone for all of the messages.
“Thank you all for all the messages, flowers, thoughts and prayers,” she wrote in her post. “Our world will never be the same. Arrayah was the apple of my eye, and my heart will forever be with hers. I love you so much my baby. I am so so sorry. Until we see each other again, please watch over your siblings and momma and dada. We love you forever and ever and always. I can’t wait to see that precious smile again, and just hug you so close. I would do absolutely anything.
“There is no Barrett 6 without you, and we will forever hold your place down here, until we all meet again in heaven. I love you forever and always.”
Shaq Barrett making way back from season-ending surgery
Barrett, 30, is working his way back from a torn Achilles which resulted in him missing the final nine games of the 2022 regular season. The two-time Pro Bowler and 2020 Super Bowl champion got some work in on the side Tuesday as he looks to once again be a key contributor for the Buccaneers’ defense in the near future.