Last summer, Isaiah Buggs was released by the Chiefs while he faced criminal charges on multiple fronts. The veteran defensive tackle was out of the league in 2024 as a result, but with his legal situations now behind him a return to the NFL is being targeted. 
“The cruelty to dogs charges filed against Isaiah Buggs in May 2024 were dismissed with prejudice on motion of the Tuscaloosa County District Attorney’s Office,” a statement from Buggs’ lawyer reads in part (via Pro Football Talk’s Charean Williams). “In its motion to dismiss the dog cruelty charges, the state noted that it was presented with evidence from [the] defense that exonerated Mr. Buggs.
“This follows last month’s reduction of domestic violence and burglary charges against Mr. Buggs from June 2024 that was part of a plea agreement, whereby Mr. Buggs pled guilty to misdemeanor criminal trespass — a charge that more accurately reflects the nature of that incident.”
Buggs turned himself in to police in the wake of the misdemeanor animal cruelty charges he faced, but that was soon followed by his domestic violence arrest. Shortly after it became clear the 28-year-old was facing multiple legal issues, the Chiefs proceeded with a release. Buggs remained a free agent through the 2024 campaign without any resolutions coming on that front. Now that his off-the-field situation has changed, though, the former sixth-rounder has turned his attention to resuming his career.
A former rotational contributor with the Steelers, Buggs’ most productive campaign came in 2022 with the Lions. The Alabama product was extended on a two-year deal, but halfway through the pact he was cut by Detroit. Buggs landed on the Chiefs’ practice squad and signed a futures deal shortly thereafter. He was in position to compete for a roster spot last summer, but by the time training camp started he had been released. In the absence of any further legal proceedings, Buggs could receive an offer this offseason, likely after the upcoming draft takes place.
Hey everybody, he’s no longer facing animal cruelty charges, we can welcome him back into the community! Which team is gonna jump at the chance to sign him? Do the Chiefs need help at defensive tackle?
Currently auditioning for a position with the Mean Machine.
Why do the Chiefs consistently show up police blotter stories?