Tampa Bay Buccaneers Interested In Olympic Silver Medalist Jeff Demps

Jeff Demps left the University of Florida football team to focus on his goal of competing in the olympics. He won silver as part of the USA Men’s 4 x 100 relay and now with that goal behind him he is focused on making it to the NFL and plans on playing this season.

“Once I got done with the Gator Bowl, I kind of already had my mind made up, it was just when was I going to tell everyone,” Demps said. “I enjoy track and it’s something I love to do. When I’m out here, I’m enjoying myself and having fun with the guys. I wanted to come back and run. It’s somewhat of an individual sport, but it’s also a team sport. You win championships as a team.”

But life as an Olympian in between Olympics is hard, and steady pay checks are harder to come by with the exception of a few superstars. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport tweeted that sources say he filed paper work with the NFL. Demps would be a free agent and could sign whichever team he pleases.

The man is clearly fast. Demps’ resume at Florida consists of 2,470 yards and 23 touchdowns and averaged 28.8 yards per kickoff return. That unquestionably will draw some interest from teams lacking depth at the running back or kick returner spot and the transition shouldn’t be so hard as Demps is likely in great shape.

Among the initial teams to be interested in Demps are the Tampa Bay Bucanneers according to Scott Reynolds of the Pewter Report. And he says they are “seriously interested” and envision him as a slot receiver alongside Vincent Jackson.

Demps also grew up in the area and could be a draw for fans as the local hometown Olympic hero.

Here are some highlights of his ability if you need a refresher.