The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed running back Barika Kpeenu to their practice squad Tuesday. The move marked Kpeenu’s return for a second stint with Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers released quarterback Brett Rypien to make room for him.
Kpeenu originally signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent after completing his collegiate career at North Dakota State. The Buccaneers signed him Aug. 16, and he was waived during the league-wide roster cutdown Aug. 30. He appeared in two of Tampa Bay’s three preseason games, recording six carries for 24 yards.
Kpeenu brings North Dakota State production
Kpeenu appeared in 47 games with 19 starts at North Dakota State. He recorded 434 carries for 2,277 yards, averaged 5.2 yards per carry and scored 32 touchdowns. He also had 35 receptions for 369 yards and two touchdowns.
As a senior in 2025, Kpeenu rushed for 1,005 yards and 20 touchdowns. His performance earned him first-team All-Missouri Valley Conference honors. He now returns to Tampa Bay after his preseason stint with the Buccaneers.
Rypien leaves after four-week stint
Rypien spent four weeks on the Buccaneers’ practice squad in connection with Baker Mayfield’s right thumb injury in Week 3. Mayfield returned to action Sunday at Carolina. Jalon Daniels is Mayfield’s backup on the active roster, while Easton Stick is on the practice squad.
Rypien previously played for the Broncos, Rams and Bengals. He has appeared in 12 games with four starts. His release opened the practice squad spot for Kpeenu’s return.
FSB Take
The transaction restores a running back with preseason experience to Tampa Bay’s practice squad. Kpeenu’s return also gives the Buccaneers a developmental option with a documented college workload and production. The move follows the return of Mayfield and the continued presence of Daniels and Stick in the team’s quarterback group.
Source: Original report