The Buccaneers announced that they have waived safety D.J. Swearinger. In addition to Swearinger, linebacker Orie Lemon has also been let go.
Swearinger, a former 2013 second-round pick, was cut loose by the Texans in May. Soon after, the Bucs used their No. 1 waiver priority to scoop up the 24-year-old. Swearinger, who totaled 145 tackles and three interceptions in 22 starts during the first two years of his career, struggled mightily in 2014. Pro Football Focus ranked him 78th out of 87 qualifying safeties after he allowed opposing quarterbacks a 99.2 passer rating against him.
Swearinger wasn’t able to get back on track in Tampa Bay, either, leading to his release today. As a Buccaneer, he played in seven games and made eleven tackles. He also recovered one fumble and added a stop on special teams.
In addition to the Bucs, the Jets, Jaguars, Raiders, Falcons, Bills, Steelers, and Ravens all put in claims on Swearinger this spring, so those clubs could conceivably show interest now that he’s once again available.
