EXCLUSIVE: NFL Star Sterling Shepard Moves to $3 Million Florida Mansion—Days After Landing $500K Bonus From Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Sterling Shepard has snapped up a $3.14 million Florida mansion—amid rumors that an NFL team is looking to re-sign the veteran wide receiver, whose contract with the team expired this month, leaving him a free agent.

Shepard, 33, who played for the team New York Giantssigned a one-year contract with the Buccaneers in June 2024; however, he was not promoted to the team’s active roster until October of that year. He then re-signed with the Florida-based club for another 12 months in March 2025.

When that latest contract came to an end, the sports star became an unrestricted free agent, meaning he was allowed to sign with any team that might approach him with an offer. However, rumors are spreading that the Buckeyes are toying with the idea of ​​bringing him back for another season—which proves their commitment to Shepard by paying him a bonus of R500 000 in February.

According to Fox Sports’ Greg Aumanthe Bucs agreed to fill Shepard’s bonus despite not meeting the requirements of the salary contract. When he signed his contract, the NFL veteran was told he would receive two bonuses of $125,000 each—one if he reached 40 catches and one if he ran for 400 yards.

Despite putting in a solid performance during the 2025 season, Shepard fell short of those goals—with one catch and 29 yards—because he was absent the last few games while other teammates were returning from injury.

Still, it seems the Buckeyes were eager to appreciate his efforts and not only paid him both of those bonuses, but also gave him “an additional $250,000,” for a total of $500,000, according to Auman.

Shepard wasted no time spreading that money—and cementing his commitment to the Sunshine State—by snapping up a four-bedroom, four-bathroom mansion in Davie, FL, about a four-hour drive from the Buccaneers’ stadium in Tampa.

Shepard, who has two children with his ex-wife, Chanel Imanwas represented by an agent Justin Knops with Agency Florida in the agreement, while the seller is working with it Elizabeth Mesa of One Sotheby’s International Realty.

According to property records, the deal closed on February 27—six days after news of his bonus package was revealed.

His new home measures 4,484 square feet and is located in Davie, FL, within a private gated community of 18 single-family homes.

“Experience luxury and privacy at this property nestled on 1 acre within the very exclusive, gated Oak Hollow Estates,” the property’s listing reads.

“This one-story complex offers resort style with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 16″ ceilings, impact glass, designer lighting and built-ins.”

The exterior of the residence is the epitome of Florida chic and is surrounded by palm trees.

Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with a spacious floor plan accented by the living room, featuring marble flooring, wood ceilings, and a beautiful chandelier.

Elsewhere in the lounge, there is a beautiful wine cellar.

Adjacent to the living room sits the chef’s kitchen, “designed for both function and entertainment, with Viking appliances, a large island, wet bar, wine cooler and walk-in pantry,” according to the listing.

There is also an attractive breakfast table, surrounded by dark-rimmed French doors that allow natural light to flood in.

The bedrooms come complete with large windows and ample space for a king-size bed.

“The primary suite serves as a private space, with a spa-inspired bathroom, peaceful garden atrium, breakfast bar, and custom closets,” the listing adds.

The master bathroom is the epitome of luxury with a soaking tub, vanity and vanity vanity.

Meanwhile, some bathrooms include a bathtub and a similar, smaller marble tub.

Outside, there’s a stylish swimming pool and plenty of seating for the whole Buccaneers team to celebrate after a win.

“The interior-exterior transition is seamless. Step out onto a lush, landscaped deck with fruit trees, saltwater pool and spa, summer kitchen, outdoor shower, wood-accented ceilings and multiple lounge and entertainment areas,” the listing crows.

“Additional upgrades include a smart-home system, outdoor projectors, wine display, air-conditioned garage, 3 EV charging stations and a full-home generator. Plans for a 1,522-sq-ft East Wing expansion, including an additional 3-car garage, create a compelling value-add opportunity for the next owner of Fortdale Central 3, available Fortdale Central is just 3.7 minutes to Miami International Airport.”

“The home offers the kind of privacy sought after by athletes and high-end buyers moving to South Florida, while staying within easy reach of Miami and Fort Lauderdale,” additional information shared with Realtor.com revealed.

Speaking about the deal, Knops praised Shepard as a “special” client, asserting that the NFL star was fully involved in the entire process of finding his dream home.

“Sterling Shepard was exceptional to work with. He approached the sale with professionalism, trusted the strategy I put in place, and stayed engaged throughout the process,” said Knops. “When you have a client who values ​​preparation and execution, it makes a successful closing that much easier.”

He also explained why Shepard came to this place in Florida.

“Luxury buyers in South Florida are increasingly transitioning to condo-style living. Properties that offer nearly an acre of land, modern construction, and true privacy—while still being located in Miami and Fort Lauderdale—are becoming some of the most sought-after opportunities in today’s market. This sale is a perfect example of that trend,” Knops said.

“What makes this property so compelling is the combination of nearly an acre of land, the newly built living space, and the level of privacy it offers. Homes like this are increasingly desirable to buyers looking for a rural lifestyle.

“This sale highlights the growing demand for luxury homes in Davie. Buyers are increasingly drawn to properties that offer space, privacy, and modern architecture while still being located close to Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

“My client specifically wanted a modern property that delivered both luxury and tranquility. This property ticked every box—from the architecture to the expansive property size, which is what buyers are looking for now.”

Meanwhile, Shepard praised the experience, adding, “We couldn’t have asked for a better real estate agent. From start to finish, she was professional, responsive, and had our best interests at heart. She navigated every detail with confidence and made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and organized.”

“His knowledge of the market, attention to detail, and communication skills clearly gave us a lot of confidence in every decision we made. Most importantly, we always felt valued—not just something else being done. If you’re looking for someone who is sharp, reliable, and truly dedicated to getting the job done right, he’s your guy. We’re so grateful for everything he’s done for our family and everything he’s done for us.”