The Buccaneers released Kpeenu from the practice squad Tuesday.
Kpeenu spent the past two weeks on Tampa Bay's practice squad but didn't see any playing time during that time. This was the 23-year-old's second stint with the team, as he spent two weeks with the Buccaneers during the preseason.
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Barika Kpeenu: Back with Buccaneers' practice squad
Rotowire
The Buccaneers signed Kpeenu to the practice squad Tuesday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.
Kpeenu went undrafted in 2026 but eventually found work with Tampa Bay as a member of the practice squad. He appeared in two preseason contests, totaling six carries for 24 yards, before being cut ahead of Week 1. Kpeenu will now return for his second stint with the Buccaneers' practice squad, though he's not expected to suit up for a regular-season game anytime soon.
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Barika Kpeenu: Let go by Tampa Bay
Rotowire
The Buccaneers waived Kpeenu on Saturday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Kpeenu signed with the Bucs on Aug. 16 as an undrafted free agent out of North Dakota State. The running back was likely meant to push Kadarius Calloway and Josh Williams as they attempted to compete for a 53-man role in the running back room. Now that the preseason has ended, Kpeenu is set to move on and will now be placed on waivers. If the 23-year-old clears waivers, he will become a free agent Monday after Sunday's cutdown day.
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Buccaneers' Barika Kpeenu: Signs with Tampa Bay
Rotowire
The Bucs signed Kpeenu to a contract Sunday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
The undrafted free agent out of North Dakota State rushed for 1,005 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2025. Kpeenu appears to be a depth signing that may push Kadarius Calloway and Josh Williams further as they try to challenge Sean Tucker for a chance to make the 53-man roster.
