January

Jan. 8, 2009   

Bucs, WR Bryant working on new deal

Sources in Tampa say the groundwork for the Bucs to re-sign WR Antonio Bryant is being set and things appear to be headed in the right direction. There’s a mutual feeling between the parties that the soon-to-be free agent will be back with the team after a highly successful comeback year. After being out of the league in 2007, Bryant became Tampa Bay's top receiver, making 83 catches for 1,248 yards and seven touchdowns. Bryant, who is just entering his prime at the age of 27, won’t come cheap, but the Bucs are expected to have around $45 million in cap space this offseason and will do what it takes to get him re-signed. Tampa is very thin at receiver already. Fading veterans Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard and the inexperienced Dexter Jackson are the only receivers known to be under contract for next season.

Jan. 2, 2009   

Kiffin leaves behind exposed Bucs defense

The Bucs’ defensive collapse in the season’s final four games — when it allowed an average of nearly 31 points — coincided with the news that defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin would be leaving for the University of Tennessee at the end of the year. Kiffin said he regretted making his plans public, but sources in Tampa say his announcement isn’t to blame for the defense’s deterioration. The real issue that the next D-coordinator — Raheem Morris, who was promoted from secondary coach — must address, we hear, is that the Bucs’ “D” looked worn-down, old and not athletic enough in the season-ending loss to the Raiders, which ended the club’s playoff hopes. Kiffin had received credit for weaving some younger talent into a veteran-laden defense over the past two seasons, but a further injection of fresh legs, particularly a pass-rushing defensive end, will be essential this offseason to get it turned in the right direction.

December

Dec. 25, 2008   

Garcia may not be done with Bucs after season

Updated at 10:30 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 29

With Jeff Garcia set to hit free agency, the Buccaneers’ top priority has to be identifying their quarterback for 2009. Garcia’s relationship with Jon Gruden is strained, but we hear that doesn’t mean the Bucs won’t want him back. Gruden prefers a veteran under center and Garcia’s backup, Brian Griese, who had a 3-2 record as a starter this season, meets that criterion, although Griese’s best fit is as a No. 2. Matt Cassel, a free agent, and Donovan McNabb, who may be headed for the trading block, are other potential options, but each will carry a hefty price tag. Sources say the Bucs, who have stayed well below salary-cap limits in recent years, are unlikely to shell out the money it would take to obtain either player. Garcia, who has led Tampa Bay to a 14-11 record in two seasons, may end up being the club’s best option once again.

Dec. 19, 2008   

Bucs RS Smith's success knocks rookie Jackson to the fringe

Updated at 10:15 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 22

He didn’t join the Buccaneers until Oct. 25, but RB-RS Clifton Smith, an undrafted rookie from Fresno State, did enough in less than two months to earn a spot in the Pro Bowl as the NFC’s return specialist. The player he replaced, rookie WR Dexter Jackson, has fallen far in the opposite direction as quickly as Smith has risen. Word out of Buccaneers headquarters is that Jackson, a second-round pick out of Appalachian State who was selected to become the club’s kickoff and punt returner, will have to do everything he can in the offseason to make himself a more capable receiver, since he won’t make the team next season as purely a returner. Smith has staked out that ground and is no danger of losing it. Jackson, who hasn’t caught a pass this season, averaged just 4.9 yards per punt return in seven games. He averaged 23.4 yards on 14 kickoff returns this season.

Dec. 12, 2008   

Bucs not settled on WR Galloway's future

We hear that it’s too early to say Joey Galloway will be done with the Buccaneers after this season. There’s no doubt that head coach Jon Gruden was aggravated by Galloway’s injury problems early on, replacing him with Antonio Bryant, and it’s likely that Gruden will consider cutting the 14th-year veteran in February, since the Bucs seem to be doing fine with Galloway on the sideline. However, Bryant will be a free agent this offseason and Tampa Bay has to make sure he’ll be back before it lets Galloway go. Also, Bryant spent a full season out of the league for a reason — teams wanted nothing to do with him because of off-the-field troubles. Bryant has had no problems since joining the Bucs and sources say he likes the coaching staff, but there’s a risk factor with him and keeping Galloway around just in case is a tempting option.

Dec. 4, 2008   

Bucs could look to more experienced candidates for Kiffin's successor

Should Buccaneers defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin leave Tampa Bay, following his son, Lane, to join the staff at the University of Tennessee, as has been reported, the organization will face a daunting task to replace him. Kiffin, regarded as one of the best coordinators in the game, basically has served as a head coach of the defense since 2002, when Jon Gruden arrived. Gruden handles the offense, but the defense was under Kiffin’s authority almost completely, close observers of the team say.

Because of the well-established dichotomy between Gruden and Kiffin, the Bucs likely will be looking for a new coordinator who can handle a similarly high level of authority as Kiffin, who has been with the team since 1996, was granted. It’s almost certain that a mastery of the vaunted Tampa-2 defense will be a requirement. In the past few years, Tampa Bay has used high draft picks to acquire players like DE Gaines Adams, MLB Barrett Ruud and FS Tanard Jackson that fit the scheme. After ingratiating them to the Tampa-2, changing to a completely different system would be ill-advised.

We hear those within the franchise are playing coy, unwilling to speak much on potential successors, since Kiffin has not publicly announced his intentions and will at the very least finish out this season with the Bucs. We’re told, however, that it’s very likely that Gruden and the front office have a pretty good idea of who they will target once the 68-year-old moves on.

Defensive backs coach Raheem Morris, 32, will be a popular and well-qualified candidate to take over. He has six seasons of experience working under Kiffin and also spent a year as the defensive coordinator at Kansas State. Some envision him taking a path similar to Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, who served as an assistant in Tampa Bay for five seasons before becoming the Vikings’ defensive coordinator in 2006. Just a year later, he was hired to lead the Steelers.

Sources in Tampa, however, say that while Morris will garner serious consideration, the Bucs might go for someone a bit older and more established. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli, who served as the Bucs' D-line coach under Kiffin from 1996-2005, is likely to resign or be fired after the season. He and other highly experienced candidates like him could have a profile more fitting of what the Bucs desire.

November

Nov. 26, 2008   

Return of Bucs RB Williams keeps Dunn from fading

Updated at 8:50 a.m. EST Monday, Dec. 1

Cadillac Williams doesn’t have to be his old self; the Buccaneers just need him to stay healthy and take a chunk of carries, we hear. Close observers of the team say that Williams’ primary duty in the remaining portion of the season is to keep Warrick Dunn fresh. He can do that by handling 10-15 carries per game. Earnest Graham is out for the season (knee, ankle), leaving Dunn as the top ballcarrier, but Dunn turns 34 on Jan. 5 and he’ll need some periodic rest. We hear the Bucs were pleased that they were able to get Williams, who had been relegated to the sideline since Week Four of last season with a knee injury, a good-sized workload (16 carries) in Week 12. If he can keep that up, Dunn should be able to stay on top of his game. In the Week 13 win over the Saints, Williams had four carries for 20 yards, including an eight-yard touchdown run. As for Dunn, he had 22 carries for 74 yards.

Nov. 20, 2008   

Veteran DE Carter bringing more than wisdom to Bucs' defense

Updated at 10:10 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 24

We hear that 35-year-old DE Kevin Carter, one of the defense’s most consistent performers despite the wear and tear of 14 NFL seasons, is showing no sign of slowing down. The Buccaneers’ run defense has shut down the likes of Michael Turner, Marion Barber, Ryan Grant and DeAngelo Williams and it has given up only one rushing touchdown in the first 11 games. Much of the credit in stuffing the run has gone to MLB Barrett Ruud, and deservedly so, but sources in Tampa say Carter has played a key role in that area, as well. The Bucs cut him in a cost-saving measure after last season and he came close to joining the Raiders, but Tampa Bay stepped in to re-sign him and it has worked out well for both sides. Carter is still a capable pass rusher, too, as he showed in Week 11, making a key fourth-quarter sack to force a Vikings punt.

Nov. 13, 2008   

Buccaneers need the old Galloway back

Updated at 9:40 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 17

The Buccaneers’ offense has dealt with being labeled as too predictable for much of this season. Prior to the team’s Week 10 bye, defenses seemed to have a good feel for what Tampa Bay had planned. A key component to changing those perceptions is WR Joey Galloway, according to sources in Tampa. Galloway missed five games with a foot injury before returning in Week Eight and close observers say he has not looked sharp since coming back. Last week vs. the Vikings, Galloway was held without a catch. We hear it has taken the soon-to-be 37-year-old quite a bit of time to get back into playing shape, and he still might not be 100 percent. Head coach Jon Gruden has been hesitant to throw the deep ball, but if Galloway can prove he’s back at full health, that is likely to change. When Galloway is speeding down the field at full tilt, he is one of the league’s most dangerous receivers.

Nov. 6, 2008   

Buccaneers' backfield should look different after bye

As injuries took their toll in the season’s first half, the Bucs were forced to make some inconvenient adjustments in their backfield and club’s offense suffered. The team’s top rusher, Earnest Graham, became Tampa Bay's lead blocker at times when it ran out of fullbacks. An extra load led to fatigue for Graham and his production declined. When a pinched nerve kept his backup, Warrick Dunn, sidelined for nearly two full games, Graham returned as the featured back. Sources say, though, that after a Week 10 bye, the Bucs will return with a healthier, more complete arsenal in the backfield. We hear FB B.J. Askew, a Pro Bowl alternate in 2007, is expected back from a torn hamstring after the bye week, which will allow Graham to narrow his focus. Dunn likely will return, as well, and there’s still a slight chance RB Cadillac Williams will be activated in the next week.

October

Oct. 31, 2008   

Bucs lacking firepower on offense

Updated at 9:35 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 3

Head coach Jon Gruden

The Buccaneers have been one of the league’s most ineffective teams when it comes to making big plays and converting red-zone possessions into touchdowns. Tampa Bay has scored just 13 TDs in 37 red-zone appearances. The team has completed just one pass of more than 40 yards.

Part of the problem, sources say, has been head coach Jon Gruden’s conservative play-calling. The Bucs are constantly settling for field goals and some members of the offense are growing agitated with the lack of creativity.

There’s a sense in Tampa that Gruden doesn’t trust his receiving corps enough to throw the ball deep or in the red zone, the way we hear it. It seems as though he’d rather pound it on the ground with RB Earnest Graham and kick a field goal, rather than allow QB Jeff Garcia to fling a pass into the endzone. The players’ frustrations spilled over into the media recently.

“(Splash plays) are definitely important because it creates momentum,” Garcia said. “It creates a certain sense of excitement within the team. Big plays are something that we were able to capitalize on last year. … Having (Joey Galloway) back now, maybe that’s something that becomes more part of our offense.”

When Galloway was out with a foot injury for five games, the passing game lost one of its only legitimate deep threats. Gruden took issue with the play-calling critique and offered his own explanation of why the deep shots weren’t happening for his club.

“We call shots,” he said. “It ­doesn’t mean the shots are delivered; it doesn’t mean the shots are open. I watched the (Colts vs. Titans) game on “Monday Night Football” and two big home run quarterbacks were looking for shots. Shots develop. We took a shot to Galloway early in the game (vs. Dallas), had a couple other shot plays called. Yeah, I’d like to throw more shots, too.”

Close observers of the team say Tampa has the weapons, between Galloway, Antonio Bryant and Ike Hilliard in the receiving corps, and TEs Jeremy Stevens and John Gilmore are both dangerous red-zone targets. It’s a matter of Gruden showing a little more trust in what he has to work with on offense.

Oct. 24, 2008   

Bucs RB Williams returns to practice but not yet game-ready

Bucs RB Cadillac Williams was able to participate in practice this week for the first time in more than a year as he moved closer to coming back from a torn patellar tendon he suffered 13 months ago. Williams has been on the PUP list and can practice with the team until Week 11, but after that, head coach Jon Gruden will have to activate him to the 53-man roster or place him on injured reserve. According to our sources in Tampa, Williams, who still has to overcome the fear of making cuts and taking hits on the mending knee, is headed for I.R. unless a serious injury to Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn or Michael Bennett creates an obvious need for more depth at running back. Rushing Williams back and cutting a valuable player to make room for him would be foolish, say close observers of the team.

Oct. 17, 2008   

Bucs compensating for CB Barber's decline

Updated at 10:15 a.m. EDT Monday. Oct. 20

Teams aren’t avoiding Bucs CB Ronde Barber anymore. In fact, he’s become the target of offenses this season, the way we hear it, and it appears as though Barber’s play has dropped off considerably in his 12th NFL season. Just last year, quarterbacks were attacking CB Phillip Buchanon’s side of the field. Roles have reversed this season. To combat Barber’s decline, the Bucs have had to play four cornerbacks more often, which has forced the team to rely on rookie CBs Aqib Talib and Elbert Mack to make plays in support when Barber allows receivers to get behind him. (Talib notched his third interception as a pro in Week Seven.) It has put defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, who has had veteran-laden defenses in the past, in an uncomfortable position. Barber has had an incredible run for Tampa, starting all 16 games every season since 2000, but it looks like he may be reaching the twilight of his career.

Oct. 10, 2008   

Gruden puts Bucs' O-line, Trueblood on notice

Updated at 9:49 a.m. EDT Monday, Oct. 13

Sources in Tampa say Jon Gruden is frustrated with his offensive line's undisciplined play. While he hasn't mentioned ORT Jeremy Trueblood by name, it's believed much of his disappointment is directed toward the third-year pro. The O-line consistently has hurt itself with penalties and Trueblood was flagged three times in a Week Five loss to the Broncos. Without singling anyone out, Gruden said if the issues continue, he'll make a change. Trueblood was not flagged in Week Six. Observers say Trueblood might not have to worry much, since backup OTs Anthony Davis and James Lee are not legitimate replacements. The only potential fill-in is rookie Jeremy Zuttah. He did a nice job at right guard, starting the first four games of the season while Davin Joseph recovered from a broken foot. Zuttah has worked almost exclusively as an interior lineman, but he did play both tackle positions in college.

Oct. 3, 2008   

Bucs RB Graham's strong start solidifies standing

There still were questions about Buccaneers RB Earnest Graham as training camp opened, even though he performed well enough in 10 starts last season to earn a new multiyear deal worth $10 million to $11 million. He had made the leap from serving almost exclusively as a special-teams contributor, after all, and had just 52 carries in his career, prior to the 222 he received last season. He has gone a long way to proving 2007 was no fluke, sources say, and he has shown a component to his game that wasn't there last year. Graham, known more for his power than his speed, is showing breakaway ability late in games. He has three carries of more than 40 yards this season after posting a long run of 28 yards in ’07. Insiders say he has been helped by the addition of Warrick Dunn, who takes a handful of carries per game and keeps Graham's legs fresh.

September

Sept. 25, 2008   

Bucs gaining confidence in DE Adams

Bucs DRE Gaines Adams had a strong finish to his rookie year, and it appears he successfully carried the momentum into this season. Adams has looked more comfortable in Monte Kiffin’s defense, and he’s also displayed an aggressive, physical style that has solidified his standing as one of best young defensive players in the NFC. We hear he’s still getting by more on raw skill than technique, but he’s also made great strides in conditioning and looks much more cut than he was last season. Being around veterans like DT Chris Hovan and DE Kevin Carter, who have demonstrated the proper way to do things in the pros, has been a big help to the 25-year-old. Sources say at some point down the road, perhaps as early as next season, Adams could be moved permanently to the left side, but he needs to become a better run stuffer before that can happen.

Sept. 19, 2008   

Injury might not be only problem for Buccaneers WR Galloway

Updated at 9:42 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 22

Joey Galloway

The way we hear it, a foot injury might not be the biggest concern when it comes to Buccaneers WR Joey Galloway. Close observers of the team are starting to wonder if he has lost some of his determination and intensity.

Galloway missed the team’s Week Three game in Chicago because of a foot sprain and he sat out the entire preseason with a groin injury. In Tampa Bay’s Week One loss, he appeared to quit on a route, but later explained that it was a matter of confusion and that he didn’t know the ball was coming to him.

The Bucs don’t want to acknowledge it, but these issues have made some wonder if Galloway is all that interested in football at the moment. It could just be that he’s dealing with a string of serious injuries. Perhaps it’s fatigue, although it’s still very early in the season. The 36-year-old is relatively underpaid for being a No. 1 wide receiver, and he’s in the second year of a three-year, $7.5 million deal. Maybe he’s unhappy with his contract. Whatever it is, sources say they get the feeling from watching him that he’s not into playing. Through two games, Galloway just hasn’t been the explosive target we’ve grown accustomed to witnessing. He has eight receptions for 74 yards (9.3 yards per catch), which is a steep drop-off from his career average of 15.7 yards per reception.

There are no indications from the team on how long Galloway is expected to be out, but he’s not a fast healer, as evidenced by the long-lingering groin injury in August, and it’s quite possible that he could miss two or three games before making a return. Tampa Bay will be lacking its No. 1 deep threat, so head coach Jon Gruden likely will look to his next speed options, WRs Antonio Bryant and rookie Dexter Jackson, to help pick up the slack in that area. Bryant caught 10 passes for 138 yards in Week Three. Gruden could place a greater emphasis on the short passing game, which would mean an increased focus on getting the ball to veteran Ike Hilliard, who has been a steady possession receiver. Hilliard caught six passes for 57 yards and a TD vs. the Bears.

Sept. 11, 2008   

Griese could replace Garcia full time

Updated at 9:05 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 15

Bucs head coach Jon Gruden decided to start Brian Griese over the hobbled Jeff Garcia in Week Two and, the way we hear it, that moment could go down as the one when Garcia lost control of the starting job for good.

Gruden explained his decision, saying that Garcia needed a week off to rest his injured ankle, and he wouldn’t go into detail on his plans for the future at quarterback. Yet, sources in Tampa said if Griese performs well, or even if he’s just adequate, it could become very difficult for Garcia to pry the job away from him. Griese was 18-of-31 for 160 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in a Week Two win over the Falcons.

Close observers of the team say Garcia wasn’t quite himself all through training camp, when he was plagued by a calf injury and rumors that he would be replaced by Brett Favre in a trade spread and lingered for weeks. Garcia didn’t take advantage of his opportunities in Week One, although he didn’t have much help from his supporting cast at receiver and on the offensive line. That gave Gruden an opening to make a change. Sources say Garcia appeared to press at times and looked very different from the player who led the Bucs to the division title last season.

In this league, memories can be short, and the good ones often fade fast. Gruden isn’t interested in what happened last year. He wants a player who can deliver for him now, and he seems to believe Griese can be that guy.

“(Griese’s) a good quarterback,” Gruden said. “Everybody who was at training camp and saw us playing in the preseason realizes that he’s sharp. He’s a good player, he’s had great success here as a quarterback and the team’s confident in him. We’ll do the best we can, and we’re excited about seeing Brian Griese. At the same time, we’re hoping to get Jeff back soon.”

Garcia’s ankle injury isn’t serious, according to sources, and it shouldn’t linger beyond this week. Previous injuries to his calf and hand aren’t problems, either. The issue may not be Garcia’s health so much as it is his play. Griese is now in control at quarterback, and it could quickly become his job to lose. Gruden enjoys a reclamation project — Garcia was such a project last season, but now there’s something new to work on.

Sept. 4, 2008   

Battle to be Bucs' No. 2 receiver could linger well into season

Sources in Tampa see a revolving door developing when it comes to the Buccaneers' No. 2 starting receiver. In a crowded field consisting of Antonio Bryant, Ike Hilliard, Maurice Stovall and Michael Clayton, no one has stepped up to claim the role, much to the frustration of head coach Jon Gruden. It appears Bryant will get the start opposite Joey Galloway in Week One, but close observers of the team say his hold on the job is tenuous and still called the competition wide open. It could be a fairly fluid rotation of starters through the first couple weeks of the season. Bucs players don't see the field, and certainly don't gain starting jobs, without Gruden's trust. Word is Gruden trusts Hilliard the most of the group, but although Hilliard might be a solid possession receiver, the veteran doesn't have much breakaway ability, which already has cleared the way for players like Bryant and Stovall, who had very strong preseasons.

August

Aug. 20, 2008   

Bucs' O-line, backfield take hard hit with early-season loss of ORG Joseph

The depth on the left side of the Bucs’ offensive line took a hit when OLT Luke Petitgout was recently released, and the right side suffered an even more devastating blow Aug. 18 as ORG Davin Joseph underwent surgery on his broken foot, which he suffered in a preseason game the previous day. There is no set timetable for his return, but it has been estimated the injury will keep him out 4-8 weeks and he could miss the first couple of games of the regular season. Tampa does have some depth at guard, unlike at tackle, and the coaching staff would like rookie Jeremy Zuttah to take over for Joseph. Although Zuttah has shown versatility and can play anywhere on the line, word is he can be overmatched on the right side and would be a better fit at center. Another option to fill in for Joseph is veteran Dan Buenning, but he may be better off as a backup at guard and center. Joseph’s absence will likely have the biggest impact on the ground game, where the third-year veteran excelled at run blocking. The early part of the season should be much tougher for RBs Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett with Joseph out.

Aug. 15, 2008   

Cadillac slowly revving up in Tampa

Although he was unable to get off the physically-unable-to-perform list before the end of training camp, Bucs head coach Jon Gruden remains optimistic about RB Cadillac Williams’ chances of getting back on the field this season. Williams suffered a torn patellar tendon during a Week Four game last season and has been sidelined ever since. The injury was considered career-threatening. “I’ve come out a couple times and actually played defense and chased (Williams) down and made him work to explode and cut,” Gruden said as camp closed. “He’s really getting close. I can’t tell you how excited we are about how far he’s come in such a short period of time. I have to keep it in perspective, but we’re going to be very smart here, and I’m not going to do anything until the trainers give the green light. Right now we’re still on yellow and we’re still working hard.” Until Williams is prepared for full contact, the Bucs will forge ahead with a backfield led by Earnest Graham, with Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett serving as the primary backups.

Aug. 8, 2008   

Bucs move on with Garcia at quarterback

Buccaneers QB Jeff Garcia joked that he was a “dead man walking,” Wednesday, as it appeared Tampa Bay was on the verge of acquiring Brett Favre. Obtaining Favre likely would have resulted in Garcia being released, but his career with the Bucs was given new life when the Packers sent the face of their franchise to the Jets. Garcia was already upset with his contract situation before the Favre rumors began, and reports of the Bucs’ interest in the Packers’ signalcaller gave Garcia plenty of reasons to feel even more slighted, considering he led the team from worst to first in the NFC South last season. There is a sense in Tampa, however, that although Garcia might be disappointed, it will not affect his play once the season starts. Garcia prides himself on being a professional and is extremely competitive. He’s unlikely to let the business side of things influence his performance. A bigger concern for Garcia at the moment is getting healthy. He has been sidelined by a calf injury and likely will miss the team’s first preseason game Saturday against the Dolphins.

Aug. 2, 2008   

WR Clayton resurgent in Bucs camp

There is a high level of competition for reps among the Bucs’ receiving corps, with spots on the depth chart up for grabs behind Joey Galloway, but Michael Clayton may have an early edge on reclaiming a large role in the offense. “What I’ve seen is five or six consecutive days where (Clayton has) put his fist down and said, ‘I’m a go-to receiver,’ ” head coach Jon Gruden recently said. “If he continues to do that, he’s going to be a big part of this offense again. … He’s focused, he’s all business and he’s running all kinds of routes. He’s running inside routes, outside routes, and he’s showing very good stamina. And we know he can run with the ball after the catch. So we like what he’s doing, but we’ve got a long way to go.” Clayton has fallen off track after his historic rookie year of 2004 in Tampa. He’s caught just one touchdown in the last three seasons after having recorded seven as a rookie, but he may be on the verge of regaining Gruden’s confidence.

July

July 25, 2008   

Bucs exploring trade for Favre

Brett Favre

The way we hear it, the Bucs are serious about preparing a deal to acquire QB Brett Favre. Sources say Tampa Bay’s offer to the Packers for Favre is likely to include a second-round pick, one more draft choice or perhaps a player, as well. Bucs GM Bruce Allen would like to get something done sooner rather than later, perhaps within the next few days to avoided letting the distracting rumors linger and also to give Favre as much time as possible to learn the offense. Reports indicate the Packers are weighing their options but seem open to dealing their disgruntled star to Tampa. If Favre were to be traded to the Bucs, the Packers might acquire QB Chris Simms in return, sources say. Simms has asked to be traded or released, and he recently was asked by Allen for his opinion on whether Favre would be a good fit for the Bucs. A deal to acquire Favre might also spell the end of QB Jeff Garcia’s career in Tampa. The Bucs already have five quarterbacks on the roster and they likely would trade or release at least one if Favre were added to the mix. Garcia has voiced displeasure with his contract situation all offseason, and he could get a chance to go elsewhere with Favre on board.

July 16, 2008   

No one pushing Bucs WLB Brooks out the door

Although the Bucs have given unceremonious dismissals to a few of their all-time greats, such as John Lynch and Simeon Rice, in recent years, we hear they’re going to let WLB Derrick Brooks, a 14th-year veteran, go out on his own terms. His playing time has been trimmed a bit, as he’s replaced on passing downs, and SLB Cato June is viewed as his heir apparent on the weak side. Yet Brooks, who missed the Pro Bowl for the first time in 11 years last season, won’t get a surprise pink slip in training camp, as Rice did a year ago. Brooks still is able to make an impact on the field, and he’s a valuable resource for MLB Barrett Ruud when it comes to understanding defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin’s Tampa-2 scheme. Brooks has two years remaining on his contract, but there is a sense from sources in Tampa that he may be eyeing retirement after this season.

July 11, 2008   

Trade talks heating up for Bucs QB Simms

Bucs QB Chris Simms may be on the verge of receiving his year-long wish for an escape from Tampa, the way we hear it. Reports recently surfaced that the Cowboys were interested in trading for Simms to make him a backup to Tony Romo. Sources tell PFW the Bears and Lions have shown interest in acquiring the fifth-year veteran, as well. Word is there’s a good chance Simms will be with another team around the time training camp begins. Simms, who said he has fully recovered from the ruptured spleen that has kept him off the field since Week Three of the 2006 season, skipped all of the Bucs’ offseason workouts and is miffed at head coach Jon Gruden and GM Bruce Allen for what he perceives as unfair treatment. Word is Allen will be shooting for a first-day pick in the swap, but it's unlikely that a potential trade partner would be willing to give up a second-round pick for Simms, who was struggling with depth-perception problems during drills last year. However, Simms has told sources those issues have subsided.

June

June 27, 2008   

Faine bringing leadership to young, talented Bucs O-line

Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden struggled to find the right word when describing his offensive line recently, but he gave the front five a loose endorsement as OTAs reached their conclusion. “I don’t have one word for these guys,” he said. “They’re a sophisticated bunch. … We’re talented, I’ll say that. Whether we can get the production is another story, but we are talented.” The O-line’s pass blocking and ability to create extra time in the pocket for veteran QB Jeff Garcia will continue to be a key for Tampa Bay this season. In addition, the free-agent acquisition of C Jeff Faine should solidify what was already a strong group. Faine is still learning some of the line calls, but he provides an essential veteran presence to a fairly inexperienced group of blockers. The former Saint could be the only starter with more than two years of starting experience. “I love him,” Gruden said of Faine. … He’s an athletic guy, a second-level guy, he’s smart, a leader and tough as hell.”

June 6, 2008   

Galloway looking forward to mentoring Bucs rookie WR Jackson

It’s a struggle for most veterans, let alone rookies, to get a handle on Bucs head coach Jon Gruden’s offense, but that’s the challenge that second-round pick WR Dexter Jackson is facing. However, the Appalachian State product will have about as good a mentor as there is in Joey Galloway, a four-year veteran of Gruden’s offensive school. “I couldn’t imagine doing that as a rookie in this system. … I went through a number of different systems in my career, and this one is definitely the most complex,” he said. “So, as a rookie, it’s just going to take a lot of focus. I think you have to take it piece by piece.” Galloway says he’s excited about the chance to help groom Jackson, who is built slightly smaller than Galloway, but his game is built on speed, which the two have in common. “I will absolutely try to teach him everything that I’ve learned, everything that I know,” Galloway said. “He’s a smaller guy, he’s a fast guy, he’s a quick guy, and that’s more of the things I’m used to and those are things that I can sort of help him with.”

May

May 29, 2008   

Bucs WR Clayton looking for more chances to contribute

As his career spiraled downward over the past three seasons, Bucs WR Michael Clayton spent much of the time in head coach Jon Gruden’s doghouse and some weeks on the trading block, as well. He dropped balls in practice and seemed to have completely lost his focus. Clayton had a breakout first season in 2004, setting franchise marks for receptions (80), receiving yards (1,193) and receiving touchdowns (seven) by a rookie. However, he has unraveled since then, averaging just 29 catches and 343 yards while scoring only one touchdown over the last three campaigns. Sources say, however, Clayton may be set to turn the tables on Gruden. Clayton has hinted that he feels he hasn’t been given enough opportunities in recent years, and while Tampa appears set to enter the season with a nearly identical receiving corps to last year’s, Gruden may have to put more of his trust in Clayton this time around. It’s not clear that the Bucs’ decision not to aggressively pursue receivers in free agency is necessarily a vote of confidence for Clayton. However, with veterans Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard a year older, and major question marks surrounding the additions of Antonio Bryant and rookie Dexter Jackson, who figures to make more of an impact as a returner initially, Gruden may have to consider making Clayton more of a factor in his ’08 game plans.

May 23, 2008   

Starting CB job still Buchanon's, though Talib may push him

Bucs rookie CB Aqib Talib will need to have an exceptional training camp, similar to the one FS Tanard Jackson had a year ago, if he's going to break into the starting lineup and unseat Phillip Buchanon, the way we hear it. Talib is penciled in as the team's nickel back, but coaches have been very careful about what they say concerning the competition between the rookie and Buchanon for a starting spot. The Bucs don't want Buchanon to get too comfortable and are hoping that Talib will push him in the next few months. Word out of Tampa is that coaches have been pretty pleased with what they've seen from Talib thus far in workouts, but they have not forgotten about how well Buchanon played in 13 starts last season after Brian Kelly went down with a groin injury. For now, sources envision Talib lining up on the same side of the field as SS Jermaine Phillips in the nickel package, which is intended to free up CB Ronde Barber to be more aggressive and make plays on the ball, while Buchanon remains the starter.

May 16, 2008   

Bucs QB Garcia not backing down from contract demand

Jeff Garcia

Bucs QB Jeff Garcia may be set to employ a new strategy as he continues to jockey for a new contract. Garcia has made it no secret that he’s unhappy with his current deal, which will pay him a base salary of $2 million this year and expire after the season. Just this week, however, Garcia hinted that he might sit out the remaining offseason workouts if his demands are not met by the Bucs’ front office. He first went public with his desire for a new deal one month ago, but there is no indication that any serious progress for an updated agreement has been made. At 38, Garcia doesn’t hold much leverage in negotiating for a contract extension and he faces a stubborn dealmaker in GM Bruce Allen, whose recent comments don’t suggest any urgency to craft another contract. Garcia appears set to utilize all tactics available and Allen may have a full-blown distraction on his hands come training camp if he continues to drag his feet.

May 9, 2008   

Bucs have sights set on Johnson as quarterback of the future

Rookie QB Josh Johnson

Jon Gruden has built his reputation on the ability to rejuvenate the careers of veteran quarterbacks, such as Rich Gannon in Oakland and now Jeff Garcia in Tampa. The knock against him is that he’s been unable to work his magic on a neophyte. We hear, however, that he’s determined to finally groom a young quarterback, and rookie QB Josh Johnson has been targeted as the one case Gruden finally will crack. Sources indicated Johnson’s skills fit right into the head coach’s scheme — he’s smart and makes sound decisions. Last year at Division I-AA San Diego, Johnson threw just one interception and 43 touchdowns. With Garcia, Brian Griese and Luke McCown entrenched as the top three signalcallers on the roster, Gruden won’t have to rush the development of Johnson. “We have a chance to do some things with (Johnson), over time, if he does what he’s supposed to do with the ball and makes good decisions,” Gruden said in a post-draft assessment.

April

April 25, 2008   

Agent of Bucs DE White says trade may be explored

Just after the Buccaneers lost out in the Jared Allen sweepstakes, another defensive end began looking for a way out of town. The agent for Bucs exclusive-rights free-agent DE Greg White made the decision to go public with his negotiation tactics this week, a move that rarely sits well with league general managers. Jack Bechta, White’s agent, told the Tampa Tribune he would seek a trade if Tampa did not offer the second-year defensive end a short-term incentive-based deal or a long-term contract. The Bucs reportedly offered White a one-year, $370,000 deal in February. Bechta may not have much leverage as negotiations continue. White burst onto the scene last season after spending the previous two years with the Arena Football League’s Orlando Predators. White led the Bucs in sacks (eight) and was second in the league in forced fumbles (seven), but he still has his skeptics. He has been described as a product of the Tampa-2 system and a pass-rush specialist without the ability to become an every-down player. The Bucs have been somewhat stubborn this offseason and have yet to extend the contracts of others who have requested new deals, such as QB Jeff Garcia and RB Earnest Graham. It would not be a surprise if the front office takes the same tack in response to White’s demands.

April 11, 2008   

Garcia, Graham looking to extend stays in Tampa

Despite the burning questions about players coming off significant injuries at key spots like left tackle and running back, most of the news from the Buccaneers’ first round of organized team activities was generated off the field. QB Jeff Garcia expressed frustration about the stalled negotiations concerning his desired contract extension. RB Earnest Graham didn’t even show up to the workouts, which was initially reported as a sign of his displeasure with his current deal, though Graham later told reporters there was no problem and he was away taking care of family matters. The Bucs find themselves in a difficult position because the two disgruntled players, each of whom has one year remaining on his current deal, comprised their starting backfield for most of last season and likely will again in 2008. At age 38, Garcia may be looking for a longer deal than Tampa is willing to offer. Graham had a breakout season last year, but if Cadillac Williams comes back from a torn patellar tendon and is still the same back he always has been, Graham becomes expendable. While handing out new deals would certainly put to rest two potential distractions heading into training camp, the Bucs have some flexibility, with good depth at quarterback and running back, and still have the draft in April to make moves if they decide to move on without Garcia and Graham after next season. Don’t expect Tampa to rush toward the negotiating table with either player this spring.

April 2, 2008   

Petitgout, Penn set to compete for start at left tackle

There will be a competition for the starting left tackle spot in Bucs’ training camp, sources tell PFW. Last year’s starter Luke Petitgout, a major free-agent signing, suffered a torn ACL in Week Four, which kept him out for the rest of the season, but he also dealt with a cranky back throughout training camp, which is more of a concern than his knee right now at the team’s headquarters. However, the solid play of Donald Penn, a former practice-squad player who stepped in for Petitgout, calms fears that the squad is stuck with an injury-prone blocker at a key spot on the offensive line. In the coming months, GM Bruce Allen likely will work on restructuring Petitgout’s three-year, $15.5 million deal he signed last year and Penn could be awarded with a raise next offseason if he wins the starting nod. Coach Jon Gruden should be able to play the motivational games he enjoys so much as Petitgout fights to avoid a major pay cut and Penn battles not only for the starting OLT spot but a potential new contract.

March

March 28, 2008   

With quarterbacks to spare, Bucs may be thinking trade

The Buccaneers have a logjam at quarterback, with six currently under contract, but that number should shrink soon. Jeff Garcia is entrenched as the team’s starter, and Brian Griese, who was acquired from the Bears for a 2009 draft pick, is the likely backup. Luke McCown and Bruce Gradkowski will compete for the No. 3 spot, and Jake Plummer remains retired. The most likely candidate for dismissal is Chris Simms, who did not show up for the Bucs’ recent voluntary workouts and skipped the club’s QB orientation for the first time in his career, as well, according to reports. Tampa would like to add more picks to the five it has in this year’s draft, and Simms is their most obvious trade bait, though it may be difficult to find a willing partner in a deal, considering he has not appeared in a game since Week Three of the 2006 season. Simms ruptured his spleen that day and didn’t fully recover from the injury until recently. He could be available to teams looking to add depth at quarterback, but the Bucs may not get much in return for Simms, a third-round pick in 2003, who was thought to be the future face of the franchise less than two years ago.

March 19, 2008   

Bucs surrounding Adams with specialists at defensive end

The Bucs’ DE rotation is beginning to take shape as they stockpile specialists and second-tier free agents at the position to go along with last year’s first-round pick, Gaines Adams. Tampa has seven defensive ends on the roster, including exclusive-rights free agent Greg White, who would like a long-term contract but has been met with some resistance, though he led the team with eight sacks last season. Kevin Carter, who was released before the start of free agency, was re-signed on Monday, and former 49er Marques Douglas, a run stuffer, was added last week. Adams, who took over as a starter in Week Nine last season, is a lock to start at right end, and Douglas could be the front-runner for the starting job on the left side. Douglas led the league in tackles behind the line of scrimmage by a defensive lineman last season and should get the bulk of the snaps on first and second downs. White, an emerging pass-rush specialist, will likely be inserted on third downs. Carter and free-agent acquisition Jimmy Wilkerson will serve as the primary backups.

March 12, 2008   

Bucs take cheap risk on WR Bryant

Bucs coach Jon Gruden strengthened his reputation as someone who is willing to give troubled players a second chance when Tampa signed WR Antonio Bryant to a one-year deal on Monday. Bryant was out of the NFL last season and received a four-game suspension before the final two games of the 2006 season for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Gruden has taken risks on players of questionable character, such as WR David Boston and TE Jerramy Stevens, in the past and Bryant comes relatively cheap, as the Bucs will reportedly pay him the six-year veteran minimum of $605,000. Bryant, who made stops with the 49ers, Browns and Cowboys before the year off, will bolster Tampa's depth at receiver, which is a major need for the team. Last season, the Bucs' top two receivers, veterans Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard, both battled nagging injuries. Bryant, if he's in shape and drug free, will likely compete to unseat Maurice Stovall or Michael Clayton as a No. 3 or No. 4 option.

March 5, 2008   

Bucs eye potential return of RB Dunn

Although his career is entering its final stage, the Bucs have shown interest in obtaining RB Warrick Dunn, who was released by the Falcons on March 3. We hear that Dunn has already had one meeting with Bucs officials, but it did not result in the announcement of a contract agreement, and the Cowboys and Colts also are potential destinations for the 11-year veteran. Dunn said he wants to join a playoff-caliber club, and while all three of the teams mentioned made the postseason in 2007, the Bucs could have an edge because of the 33-year-old’s familiarity with the franchise — he spent the first five seasons of his career with Tampa Bay and still owns a home in the area. The Bucs might offer him the best shot of getting a significant chunk of playing time. With questions lingering about whether Cadillac Williams, who tore the patellar tendon in his right knee last season, will ever be able to return to form, the only healthy running backs under contract are Earnest Graham, Michael Bennett and Kenneth Darby. Dunn’s experience, versatility and blocking ability would almost automatically make him the No. 2 ballcarrier and he could challenge for the starting job if Graham, who was a pleasant surprise in ’07, struggles in his first full season as the No. 1 back.

February

Feb. 27, 2008   

CB Samuel's agent tries to reel Bucs into negotiations

We hear the agent of CB Asante Samuel is trying to pull the Bucs into the sweepstakes to sign his client when free agency begins Feb. 29, but it would be a surprise if Tampa had much serious interest in Samuel's services. Alonzo Shavers, Samuel's agent, told the Tampa Tribune that "Tampa is a situation that makes sense. Tampa Bay is definitely worth considering. It was an organization that was in the Super Bowl not too long ago. It is an organization Asante wants to play for." The Bucs figure to be an aggressive player in free agency, with more than $30 million in estimated cap space, but it's far more likely funds will be spent on free-agent playmakers at wide receiver and tight end. Samuel is said to be eyeing a contract that would be pay him $10 million per year. He would be a definite upgrade over CB Phillip Buchanon, and a starting tandem of Samuel and Ronde Barber would give Tampa a star-studded secondary. Yet, in the end, we hear the Saints and Eagles are more likely to shell out the necessary cash for the Pro Bowler.

Feb. 22, 2008   

Bucs eyeing Falcons' salary-cap casualty

Just a few months ago, a Tampa source told PFW that DT Jovan Haye was playing the three-technique in the Tampa-2 defense as well as any Buccaneer since Warren Sapp. Recent reports, however, indicate the franchise could be searching for his replacement. Haye’s performance weakened late in the season, and he will be a restricted free agent this offseason. We hear Tampa has interest in former Falcons DT Rod Coleman, who was recently released after suffering through an injury-plagued season. Coleman had surgery last April to repair a ruptured right quadriceps that occurred in a jet-ski accident. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery less than six months later, after having sustained a broken right kneecap in training camp. He played just five games last season before being placed on injured reserve with hand and triceps injuries. Clearly, the Bucs would be taking a risk by making an investment in Coleman’s battered body, but with more than $30 million in cap space, they have the flexibility to do so. It’s possible that even if Haye is re-signed, Coleman or another veteran free-agent defensive tackle could be added to the mix.

Feb. 15, 2008   

Bucs searching for playmaker at tight end

Giants GM Jerry Reese recently said the Giants are not planning on trading TE Jeremy Shockey, quieting rumors that the Super Bowl champs were set to part ways with the oft-injured, controversial player. If Reese made the statement in an attempt to raise the asking price for Shockey, or if he changes his mind at some point during the offseason, we hear the Bucs would have interest in making a swap, but it’s likely they would be unwilling to part with anything higher than a third- or fourth-round draft pick. The Giants almost assuredly would be expecting more in return. PFW's source in Tampa said that if the Bucs were able to acquire Shockey, head coach Jon Gruden would finally have something he has long desired — two quality all-around tight ends, the other being TE Alex Smith. Having two tight ends that can block, run quality routes, and are good pass catchers would open up the Bucs’ offense and take some pressure off the wide receivers. Count Gruden out as a coach who would lose interest in Shockey because of his perceived “me-first” attitude. Gruden is drawn to project players and seems to have an inherent belief that he can change players in ways no other coach can.

Feb. 1, 2008   

Bucs' depth at CB is slashed by expected departure of Kelly

The Buccaneers’ secondary took a hit when CB Brian Kelly — who has been with the team since it drafted him in 1998 — said he would opt out of the final year of his contract and become a free agent. After playing alongside CB Ronde Barber for years, the 32-year-old Kelly lost his starting job to CB Phillip Buchanon this past season. Kelly battled a nagging groin injury for much of the year and appeared in 11 games, starting just four. The loss of Kelly breaks up Tampa’s impressive nickel defense and hurts the team’s depth at cornerback. His expected departure leaves a hole the squad will have to address in free agency or the draft. Our source in Tampa said Kelly could be a fit for teams who run a scheme similar to the Tampa-2, but probably won’t get much of a look anywhere else, especially considering he's on the wrong side of 30. He is viewed largely as a product of the system and would struggle in a place where higher demands are placed on cornerbacks.