53 Chapelle Russell LB

The Buccaneers signed Russell to the active roster Tuesday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

The rookie seventh-rounder has spent the season on the Buccaneers' practice squad, but he's received a promotion following news that Jack Cichy (hamstring) has been placed on IR. Cichy played strictly on special teams over the first five games, so Russell likely will handle a similar role. If he performs well enough, Russell has a chance to retain a spot on the 53-man roster even when Cichy returns.

The Buccaneers selected Russell in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft, 241st overall.

Russell fought though back-to-back ACL tears during his collegiate career before stepping up as an every-game starter for Temple over the last two seasons. He boasts solid athleticism and coverage skills, but concerns regarding his tackling consistency and durability will likely lead the Buccaneers to view him as a project with potential depth upside.