Chukwurah on Board
While the Bucs' efforts to land a veteran quarterback have stalled (see below), the team is moving forward with some other decisions.
The latest involves Denver free agent defensive end/linebacker Patrick Chukwurah, who has agreed to terms on a five-year, $5.5-million contract, according to his agent. Chukwurah, 28, is expected to sign the deal when he arrives in Tampa early next week.
Ronald Slavin, his representative, said the Bucs plan to use Chukwurah as "a third-down pass rusher and a special teams leader." The expected signing will reunite the player with Bucs defensive line coach Larry Coyer, who was Denver's defensive coordinator before his firing after the season. Chukwurah had 4.5 sacks last season as a situational player in 14 games.
The addition of Chukwurah suggests the Bucs don't feel comfortable about their chances for re-signing Dewayne White, who reportedly is visiting the Lions today. Detroit is coached by former Bucs defensive line coach Rod Marinelli.
Bucs Beat is the online destination for Tampa Bay Buccaneer fans interested in the latest news about the team. St. Petersburg Times reporters Rick Stroud, Stephen Holder, Dave Scheiber and Joe Smith will provide regular updates. Readers can comment on players, coaches, the front office - all of it.
Hello again Bucs fans: I think bringing this Lb into the Revamping Bucs Defense Is a Positive Effect for 2007. And I think there's more great Changes ahead .
Posted by: George L Hicks | March 02, 2007 at 08:41 PM