The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have deleted a social media video that featured footage of a bison flipping a 65-year-old man, following criticism from fans and media. The team initially posted the video to X on Monday with the caption, “Flipping out because it’s almost football season.”
The video, intended to build excitement for the upcoming NFL season, transitioned from the clip of the bison attack to a touchdown celebration by Buccaneers wide receiver Tez Johnson. However, the use of the incident drew sharp criticism, with many deeming it insensitive.
ESPN reporter Jenna Laine commented that the video did not align with the team's previous social media efforts, which she described as informative, engaging, and respectful. Michael Babcock, executive producer for TMZ Sports, noted the deletion occurred after significant backlash from fans who considered the video to be in poor taste.
The incident captured in the video occurred Friday at Yellowstone National Park. The bison reportedly tossed Carl McDaniel, 65, approximately eight feet into the air. McDaniel sustained multiple fractures to his femur and required surgery. He was walking with his grandson at the time of the attack and is reported to be in stable condition. McDaniel told reporters that while he faces physical therapy, the outcome was not as severe as it could have been.