After nearly a year clouded by legal troubles, the former Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman has been cleared of the criminal animal cruelty charges that initially derailed his NFL career. On Wednesday, the Tuscaloosa County District Attorney’s Office officially dismissed the charges with prejudice, meaning they can’t be refiled.
His attorney, Greg Gambril, made it clear that new evidence—notably a recorded phone call—played a pivotal role. In the call, Otis Lee, the individual who had been entrusted with the care of the dogs, reportedly admitted responsibility. That exonerating detail helped sway the D.A.’s office to drop the case.
Buggs had also faced a separate domestic violence burglary charge, which was ultimately reduced to misdemeanor trespass via plea agreement. It all painted a turbulent off-field picture—one that led to his release from the Chiefs last summer, despite being part of their Super Bowl-winning roster in 2024.
Now, with the legal fog lifting, Buggs is setting his sights on redemption—both personally and professionally.
“I am focused on moving forward and continuing my football career,” Buggs said.
He was once a valuable rotational piece for the Detroit Lions and showed flashes of starting-caliber play. At just 28 years old, he still has time to catch on with a team in need of veteran depth on the defensive line.
Will an NFL franchise give him a second chance? That remains to be seen. But in a league always on the lookout for experienced trench players—especially ones with postseason experience and a clean legal slate—Buggs may get his opportunity sooner rather than later.
Would you like a list of teams that could be potential landing spots for Buggs based on current D-line depth charts?
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