Buccaneers Sign Barika Kpeenu to Practice Squad
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers re-added the running back following a workout held on Monday.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Football
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed running back Barika Kpeenu to their practice squad on October 27, 2026. This move comes after the team previously waived the player on August 29, 2026.
Why it matters
The signing brings additional depth to the practice squad as the team looks to round out its roster options. Kpeenu returns to the organization following a standout college career at North Dakota State.
Kpeenu recorded 1,005 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns in 2025. He also contributed 20 receptions for 247 yards during that same season.
The players
Barika Kpeenu
He is a running back who played at North Dakota State and is a West Fargo native.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This is the Tampa-based professional football team that competes in the NFL.
Cody Mauch
He is an active member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster.
The details
The team opted to sign Kpeenu after holding a workout on the morning of October 27, 2026. Kpeenu previously earned First Team All-MVFC honors and remains a player the organization is familiar with after his tenure earlier this year.
Timeline
Barika Kpeenu rushed for 1,005 yards during the 2025 season.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers waived Kpeenu on August 29, 2026.
The Buccaneers signed Kpeenu to the practice squad on October 27, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This roster move allows the organization to retain Kpeenu for developmental purposes during the remainder of the 2026 season. It adds depth to the running back room as the team navigates competitive balance and long-term positional requirements.
The addition of Kpeenu to the practice squad provides the team with a depth option should injuries affect the active roster. Fans should monitor future injury reports to see if this signing serves as a precursor to active roster elevation.
The takeaway
Roster fluidity is a common feature of the NFL season as teams adjust for depth. Keeping track of practice squad transactions can provide insight into the organization's developmental focus and potential future contributors.
Further reading
For more updates on roster changes, visit the Football section.
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