Smooth operator Shilo Sanders is maneuvering his way around to rebuild his public image as a Buccs player, following the massive beating it has been taking recently.
First, the lawsuits, followed by bankruptcy, and then his going undrafted, all dragged his reputation through the mud.
While Sanders' performance in the rookie minicamp has already started doing the damage control, he also knows how to play the game well in front of the camera. Shilo's answers and unique mannerisms turned heads during NFL media day.
When asked about why he chose to sign with the Bucs, Shilo kept it simple with a simple, honest answer.
"They gave me a chance before anyone so I’m forever grateful to the Buccaneers, and I’m just gonna do everything in my power to help this team win," he explained. "That’s all I want.
"Just look at the whole coaching staff. It’s a real supportive coaching staff. Everybody wants to see everybody do good. Even the guys on the team. I’ve just been talking to everybody, and everybody is cool. We all want to see each other win, and it’s just a great environment to thrive in."
The honesty set him apart, sure, but Sanders's mannerisms set him apart further.
ESPN's Jenna Laine shared a clip of how the Bucs star shook hands with reporters before his interview, doing something like this for the first time this season.
"New Bucs safety Shiloh Sanders wanted to shake every media members’ hand before starting his first availability with us. Only player who has done that this week," Laine said.
And for his reputation as a player, Sanders has already been displaying good performance in the Bucs' rookie minicamp, as confirmed by head coach Todd Bowles.
One media appearance will hardly change Sanders' public image overnight.
Still, it could be a start to it.