Practice squad RB arrested

TAMPA — Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Lionel Gates, a member of the practice squad last season, was arrested by Hillsborough County deputies overnight and charged with battery on a pregnant woman and burglary, according to Hillsborough County sheriff deputies.

Gates, 25, a 6-foot, 233-pound running back, kicked in the door of 28-year-old Peggie Lavender’s apartment about 11:30 p.m. Thursday, authorities said. Inside, Gates destroyed a large-screen television and another television set, broke two interior doors and put a hole in a bedroom wall, authorities said.

Gates then hit Lavender, who is pregnant, in the face and pushed her into a wall, deputies said.

Sheriff’s spokeswoman Debbie Carter said the two had dated in the past, but were not currently involved. They lived in the same apartment complex.

Gates faces charges of armed burglary of an occupied residence, battery on a pregnant female and criminal mischief of $1,000 or more.

The Bucs signed Gates from the Buffalo Bills in September.

TAMPA — Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Lionel Gates, a member of the practice squad last season, was arrested by Hillsborough County deputies overnight and charged with battery on a pregnant woman and burglary, according to Hillsborough County sheriff deputies.

Gates, 25, a 6-foot, 233-pound running back, kicked in the door of 28-year-old Peggie Lavender’s apartment about 11:30 p.m. Thursday, authorities said. Inside, Gates destroyed a large-screen television and another television set, broke two interior doors and put a hole in a bedroom wall, authorities said.

Gates then hit Lavender, who is pregnant, in the face and pushed her into a wall, deputies said.

Sheriff’s spokeswoman Debbie Carter said the two had dated in the past, but were not currently involved. They lived in the same apartment complex.

Gates faces charges of armed burglary of an occupied residence, battery on a pregnant female and criminal mischief of $1,000 or more.

The Bucs signed Gates from the Buffalo Bills in September.

Glazer: Bucs need to show improvement

   

    Bucs vice president Joel Glazer called the 2006 season 'very disappointing.' And after three losing seasons in the past four years, he indicated that coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen have been put on notice that the team "needs to start improving.' 

   Taking a break from the NFL owners' meetings Tuesday at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Glazer spoke for the first time in nearly a year about the Bucs' past, present and future in an interview with the Times.

   He would not address questions about his father, Bucs owner Malcolm Glazer, who is recovering from two strokes he suffered last April. And he would not discuss the Manchester United soccer team, the family's most lucrative sports holding.

   But Glazer did tackle most of the issues facing the Bucs and declared that the salary cap problems and lack of draft picks that contributed to the declining performance were behind them.

   ""Last year I would say was very disappointing,'' Glazer said. ""I know it was disappointing for us, I know it was disappointing for people in our organization and our fans. It's just disappointing to go 4-12 in the National Football League and coming from where we've been in the previous years was just not a good feeling. We didn't enjoy it and I know nobody in our organization enjoyed it.''

   Glazer also said that Gruden and Allen have not been given any specific goals for 2007 beyond showing rapid improvement and a solid foundation for championships in the future.

   ""There's no magic number. We never sit there and say, "It's this or else,''' Glazer said. ""Like I said, 4-12 is very disappointing. By the same token, as an organization we have to be realistic where we've been at the last couple of years, the circumstances that have brought us to where we are and first recognize that. It's so easy to just look at the record and in this league, ultimately, you're accountable to your record. But when you're judging people, you've got to look at the circumstances that led you there. That's not to place blame on any one area or thing. It's a few things brought together that contributed to it.

   ""All that being said, some of the problems that contributed to it - not having all our draft picks, salary cap issues - are in the past. We're at a point now where this organization and this team needs to start improving. I know that's our expectations, I know that's Jon's expectations, I know that's Bruce's expectation. But we don't go into the season with a magic number or a magic formula.''

               

Bucs receive two compensatory picks

   

      Here's a reason for Bucs fans to watch both days of the NFL draft.

     Tampa Bay was awarded two seventh-round compensatory picks Monday - the 35th and 36th selections in the seventh round. That's number 245 and 246 overall if you're scoring at home.

    What did the Bucs do to deserve such a windfall? They lost Dexter Jackson, Jameel Cook and Todd Steussie to free agency while netting only Jamie Winborn in return.

    The Bucs now enter the NFL draft with nine picks - including a third of them in the seventh round. Live it up.

Bucs want meeting with Plummer

   

   The Bucs plan to continue to pressure quarterback Jake Plummer into changing his mind about retirement and hopefully coax him into reporting to training camp.

   Coach Jon Gruden said Monday he is attempting to schedule a face-to-face meeting with the former Broncos quarterback. Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen are in Phoenix for the NFL owners meetings this week. Plummer played collegiately at nearby Arizona State in Tempe, but Gruden said he isn't sure where such a meeting might occur.

   ""We're trying to hook up with him to see if we'll have some opportunities to sit down with him face-to-face,''' Gruden said.

   ""Jake Plummer is hanging in the balance right now.''

   Despite Plummer's announcement of his retirement on his website and at an impromptu news conference in Denver, Gruden said the 32-year-old quarterback still is considering playing next season. Plummer has not submitted his retirement papers to the NFL office.

   The Bucs would like to at least have Plummer report to training camp, perhaps hoping that the competition with Jeff Garcia and Chris Simms will take over. If Plummer was released under that scenario, the Bucs might not go after his $7-million pro-rated signing bonus.

   Gruden said he is hopeful Plummer will make a decision in the next few weeks.

   ""We're using time as a cure-all here,'' Gruden said. ""Let the dust settle a little bit and see what Jake wants to do. There's a lot of people who appear to have spoken to him or have an opinion on what's really going on. But the bottom line is he's deciding right now what he wants to do.

    ""He's a hell of a player, the tape I look at. All you have to do is watch the Broncos play. We'll see what happens with his situation the next couple of weeks.''

   Monday marked the first time Gruden has spoken publicly about the Bucs' off-season moves, including the signing of Garcia.

   ""I've been trying to get (Garcia) for four years,'' Gruden said. ""It was the salary cap. We can't get him this year. We can't get him the next year.

   ""He's a go-getter, man. He's a pro football player. He scrapped for everything that he got.

   ""We were sitting in the meeting with the guys and I ripping into (Bruce) Gradkowski. "Nice throw, what are you doing?' I said, "Hey, Garcia, where were you when you were a rookie?' He said, "I was a third-string quarterback for the Calgary Stampeders making $28,000 Canadian dollars.' It's going to be a great opportunity for Bruce to get better because I think Bruce is lot like him.''

   Garcia, 37, is expected to battle Simms for the starting job. Simms signed a two-year contract with the Bucs last December before the Bucs traded for Plummer and signed Garcia.

   But Gruden said he expects Simms to respond well to the competition.

   ""It's part of the job. It's going to be competitive, I think he understands that,''' Gruden said. ""He's been hurt two of the last three seasons. No disrespect to him, but you've got to have some viable guys on your football team. Chris is going to compete. He's a great kid, he's working hard. He's got a big upside.''

   And according to Gruden, the Bucs may not be done collecting quarterbacks. Tampa Bay picks fourth overall in the NFL and plans to take a long look at LSU's JaMarcus Russell and Notre Dame's Brady Quinn.

   ""We're going to go work out Brady Quinn here in the next couple weeks. We're going to go work out Russell,'' Gruden said. ""You never know. Jeff's 37 years old and he's a guy who has proven he can play. And Chris is coming off a serious injury. He appears to be at full strength. And Gradkowski has (11) starts. So at least we've got some guys with some good experiences, some bad experiences, indeed. But we'll see what happens.''

      

      

   

Penalties up for review?

The Bucs are nothing if not persistent.

A year after their proposal at last year's owners' meetings to make penalty calls subject to review went nowhere, the Bucs are raising the issue again at this year's meetings, which begin today in Phoenix.

They've tweaked the proposal to exclude offensive holding, but for the most part, it remains a drastic proposition. It gained little support last year, and it's hard to tell whether it will pick up steam this time around. The Competition Committee will take up the matter when it convenes this week.

So, what do you think? Is this a good idea? Or will it just complicate something that is already complicated: determining what is and isn't reviewable? It wouldn't necessarily lengthen games because teams would still be limited to the same number of review challenges. But this is far from a slam dunk.

Check out the Times this week for coverage of the developments in Phoenix. In the meantime, feel free to share your thoughts below.

During all the Bucs' recent offseason activity, there have been a lot of opinions expressed. Some by the media, some by players and still more by general manager Bruce Allen.

The one person we haven't heard from? Coach Jon Gruden.

But Gruden is likely to break his silence at this week's owner's meetings in Arizona. It will be interesting to hear his take on the quarterback situation, beginning with whether he thinks either Chris Simms or Jeff Garcia has an edge going into offseason workouts. Another topic Gruden is expected to be asked about: his apparent decision to install the shotgun formation in his offense -- a tool he has never used in his five seasons in Tampa.

Gruden often plays things close to his vest, so don't expect him to reveal all the answers, but there may be some opportunities to read between the lines as Gruden tries to assemble the team he hopes will solidify his status with the Bucs after a 4-12 season that has him on the hot seat. The hope is Gruden also gives some indication of what his preferences are for the upcoming draft, which is now a month away.

Keep an eye out here and in the Times later this week for more from the owners meetings and any other developments with the Bucs.

One less option for Plummer

You probably saw the news on Wednesday that Atlanta had traded its promising backup quarterback, Matt Schaub, to Houston. And you're probably wondering right now how in the world this is relevant on a Bucs blog.

Well, here's how: the Texans were one of the few teams with a sincere interest in making a deal for Jake Plummer, the disgruntled Buccaneer quarterback who was thought to be interested in playing for Houston. That's where Plummer's former Broncos offensive coordinator, Gary Kubiak, is head coach.

But with Schaub likely to supplant embattled Houston starter David Carr after the trade, the Texans no longer have a need for Plummer. That will significantly reduce the Bucs' chances of dealing Plummer, while increasing the likelihood that he'll play in Tampa or nowhere. The Raiders are believed to have some interest in Plummer, but there has been no concrete evidence that Oakland and Tampa Bay have had frank discussions about a deal.

Of course, all of this is moot if Plummer intends live up to his promise to never play again. He hasn't backed off that claim just yet, so we probably need to take him at his word at this point. But if there was any credence to the theory that this retirement talk was nothing more than an attempt to force a trade from Tampa Bay, then Plummer just lost a lot of leverage. Houston was the most likely trade partner in any potential Plummer deal, but it's no longer an option.

So, if you were looking for the Plummer soap opera to end anytime soon, today doesn't look like the day.

Bucs will use the shotgun

Jon Gruden finally is going to pull the trigger on using the shotgun formation next season.

The Bucs coach hinted about implementing the formation, which is rarely used in the west coast offense but is an effective tool to help provide protection for the quarterback.

Chris Simms said Tuesday following two days of meetings with Gruden that it appears the shotgun will be a go in 2007. The Bucs are believed to be the only team not to utilize that formation in some capacity.

Both Simms and second-year pro Bruce Gradkowski played extensively in the shotgun formation during their college careers.

"I think it is going to come true, yes,'' Simms said. "Coach has been talking about it and I think he's pretty serious about it. We'll see when that first practice rolls around. But as of right now, I think we're going to have the shotgun and I'm extremely excited about that.''

No one stands to benefit more than Simms. Even at 6-foot-4, he struggled last season with having passes batted down, particularly on three-step drops. The shotgun also will help the Bucs offensive line, which struggled in pass protection last season.

"I'm a big believer in it,'' Simms said. "You know, it's a good wrinkle to put in the offense for protection purposes, so the quarterback can step back and look at the defense as a whole. I'm excited for it.''

 

Stevens probably not the answer

This is only loosely related to the Bucs, but it's interesting nonetheless.

One of the many players to draw interest from the Bucs this offseason has been Seahawks free agent tight end Jerramy Stevens. It's not surprising the Bucs are thinking of upgrading at tight end, and Stevens clearly has talent despite his propensity for dropping passes.

But after the past several days, you have to wonder whether Stevens will wind up in a Bucs uniform -- or any other, for that matter. First, Stevens was cited for driving under the influence of and possession of marijuana in Arizona on Tuesday.

Then came news that Stevens' neighbors in his Seattle condo building are threatening legal action to push him out because of alleged disruptive behavior that runs the gamut. According to Friday's Seattle Times, one resident claims to have found used condoms on the building's deck courtesy of Stevens. Another complained of finding vomit from a guest from one of Stevens' all-night parties, while others have voiced concerns over his alleged use of illegal fireworks -- fired from his balcony.

One night in January, according to the Seattle Times, neighbors called police after reporting what sounded like a fight between two males in Stevens' unit. Officers couldn't determine whether there was a problem and no charges were filed.

And last week's arrest was only Stevens' latest legal issue. Since 1998, he has faced charges ranging from assault to hit-and-run (after crashing into an apartment building where a 93-year-old woman was sleeping).

Tampa Bay is pretty much the only outside team to show significant interest in Stevens since he became a free agent earlier this month,. Unfortunately for him, his latest legal run-in won't do much to help convince the Bucs he can help them.

Breaking down the Bucs

A little more than two weeks into free agency, let's analyzes what the Bucs have done, what's on the horizon and whether the team is better (or not).

Quarterback

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Found a new starter - and then some - signing free agent Jeff Garcia and trading for the rights to retiring Bronco Jake Plummer. The Bucs say Garcia and Chris Simms will battle it out for the starting job. But anybody who knows Jon Gruden - including Simms - understands Garcia, 37, wasn't brought in to carry a clipboard.

ON THE HORIZON: Plummer says he has played his last down, but the Bucs aren't buying it. They're willing to send a fourth-round pick to Denver in 2008 if he plays next season, or a seventh-rounder if he does not. Meanwhile, Bruce Gradkowski and Luke McCown get pushed down the depth chart. Don't look for the team to draft a quarterback.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Better. They've avoided a repeat of last year, when Gradkowski, a sixth-round pick, wound up starting 11 games.

Running back

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Re-signed iconic fullback Mike Alstott and Jets free-agent fullback B.J. Askew, who has primarily been a special-teams player. Did not re-sign fullback Jerald Sowell.

ON THE HORIZON: They promise to bring four fullbacks to camp. Expect them to draft a running back to provide depth for Cadillac Williams, Michael Pittman and Earnest Graham. Some speculated Oklahoma's Adrian Peterson was worth the No. 4 pick, but what would that say about Williams, the No. 5 overall pick in 2005?

BETTER OR WORSE?: Worse. They haven't utilized Alstott as a ballcarrier since Gruden arrived. In his 12th season, it's hard to believe Alstott will be a more effective blocker.

Tight end

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Have not re-signed Dave Moore. Met with the Seahawks' Jerramy Stevens, but that was before he was arrested and charged with DUI and cited for possession of marijuana.

ON THE HORIZON: Best TE in the draft is Miami's Greg Olsen, but he'll be gone by the end of the first round. If they traded down a few times, he'd be in their range. Stevens' price just went way down, and Gruden isn't afraid of bad apples.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Worse. It's a position that needs to be addressed in free agency or the draft. Alex Smith struggled with injury; Anthony Becht, 29, is showing some age.

Receiver

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Drooled over Calvin Johnson. Before free agency, they signed Levon Thomas, who spent most of 2006 on the Saints practice squad. Also restructured the contract of Joey Galloway.

ON THE HORIZON: Johnson, the Georgia Tech star, has freakish ability. At 6-5, 239 pounds, he runs the 40 in 4.35 seconds. They are keeping their fingers crossed that he is still there with the No. 4 overall pick.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Better. Galloway will be happier with extra cash in his pocket, and Michael Clayton will have to train harder knowing he might have to fight to get on the field. Don't forget, Maurice Stovall had some nice moments as a rookie.

Defensive line

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Signed Dolphins free agent Kevin Carter, 33, and are nibbling on Saints franchise defensive end Charles Grant.

ON THE HORIZON: Big decision on Grant. If they sign him to an offer sheet, they might have to give the Saints two No. 1 draft picks. Or they could strike another deal involving players and/or draft picks. Would love Louisville's Amobi Okoye if they trade down.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Worse, with an asterisk. Biggest need is for an under tackle, where Carter might play. Lost Dewayne White to the Lions. Not many upgrades for a team with only 25 sacks last season.

Offensive line

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: It appears they've taken the Band-Aid approach, signing Giants free agent Luke Petitgout, who missed much of last season with a broken leg. Lost guard/center Sean Mahan to the Steelers.

ON THE HORIZON: Looking at Broncos guard Cooper Carlisle. Anthony Davis could move to left guard if Dan Buenning does not recover from a knee injury.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Better, if Petitgout returns to form. Still need a center. USC's Ryan Kalil could be there in the second round.

Linebackers

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Signed versatile Colts free agent Cato June, a Pro Bowl player in '05 who led his team in tackles last season.

ON THE HORIZON: Big decision on whether Shelton Quarles may have to retire for health reasons.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Better. June can play multiple linebacker positions and is the heir apparent to Derrick Brooks on the weak side.

Defensive backs

WHAT THEY'VE DONE: Loaded up on cornerbacks. Re-signed Phillip Buchanon and Torrie Cox. Added 49ers free agent Sammy Davis. Entertained safety Mike Doss.

ON THE HORIZON: They need to sign another veteran safety to go with Jermaine Phillips and Will Allen. Good draft for safeties.

BETTER OR WORSE?: Better. Good depth with Brian Kelly coming back.

- RIck Stroud

Bucs sign June

A day after visiting the Bucs in Tampa, free agent linebacker and former Pro Bowl selection Cato June signed with Tampa Bay today.

The terms and length of the contract aren't known at this time, but the addition of June, formerly of the Colts, is one of the bigger moves of this offseason for the Bucs.

His signing leads to some immediate questions. Chief among them: where will he play? June is primarily a weak-side linebacker. The strong side of the offense is considered the side where a tight end is lined up. The weak-side linebacker lines up on the opposite side.

A former safety, June is solid in pass coverage and is adept at freelancing in open areas. All of that sounds like another fairly well-known Bucs linebacker: weak-side starter Derrick Brooks. It doesn't seem conceivable that June would supplant Brooks, but it will be interesting to see what the team's future plans are.

Whether June moves to the strong side remains to be seen. That's where Ryan Nece has been the starter off and on for the past four seasons.

But whatever the Bucs ultimately decide to do with June, they are sure to use him extensively given his standout play in Indianapolis. June, 27, led the Super-Bowl champion Colts in tackles last season with 142.

Allen still believes Plummer will play

   Some people are harder to convince than others.

   A week ago, Jake Plummer stood at the Denver Athletic Club, urged reporters to look into his eyes and hear his voice when he announced his plans to retire from the NFL.

   Plummer, 32, had said as much on his website a week earlier after learning the Broncos had traded his rights to the Bucs.

   He said as much over the telephone to Bucs coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen.

   Yet for some reason - Allen insists Plummer will not take a knee next season.

   ""I still believe he will play,'' Allen said Friday. "'In fact, I'm looking forward to talking to him again soon.''

   Does Allen expect Plummer to play in Tampa Bay?

   ""Yes, that's why we traded for him, to play here,'' he said. 

   Plummer has three years remaining on his contract and the Bucs could force him to pay back $7-million in pro-rated signing bonus if he does not play in 2007. Tampa Bay will send a fourth round pick in 2008 if Plummer returns to the field by then. If not, they owe the Broncos a seventh round pick.

   Allen would not comment on whether the Bucs intend to go after Plummer's signing bonus.

   ""I've never wanted to discuss individual players contracts before, so I won't now,'' Allen said. "'I expect him to play.''

   But what about Jake's insistence that he's retired?

   ""Other Broncos quarterbacks have said they are retiring before and they didn't,'' Allen said.

   

      

Bucs discuss possibilities with Grant

 

   Saints defensive end Charles Grant visited Tampa Bay Friday with both sides hoping he might join the Bucs in the future.

   Bucs general manager Bruce Allen indicated the team did not intend to make an offer at this time to Grant, who is the Saints franchise player.

   If the Saints chose not match an offer sheet for Grant, the Bucs would owe them two No. 1 draft picks.

   But Allen raised the possibility that Grant could have the franchise tag removed at a later date or that the Bucs might be able to reach another compensation package with the Saints.

   ""If you pay attention to the franchise designations over the years, they take a lot of twists and turns,'' Allen said. ""Sometimes those designations are removed and sometimes players don't play under it for more than one year. We visited with Charles and wanted to see what he sees his future to be. Obviously, we've played against him the last five years and we have a lot of respect for the way he plays.''

   Grant's agent, Bill Johnson, said Friday the Bucs discussed all the scenarios that might enable Grant to eventually sign with the Bucs. That would include a possible trade of players or other draft picks. The Bucs own the No. 4 overall pick and are unlikely to part with it this year.

   ""It's such a great fit for Charles,'' Johnson said. ""He loves the area, loves the coaches and he's always enjoyed playing in Tampa and against Tampa. There's a lot that can be said for the twists and turns of franchise designations. We'll see what happens.''

   Grant's visit highlighted an extremely busy day for the Bucs, who also entertained Colts free agent linebacker Cato June and Carolina free agent linebacker Chris Draft.

   June led the Colts in tackles last season and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2005. Eventually, the Bucs will have to replace Brooks, who was named to his 10th straight Pro Bowl. Allen said June played strong side linebacker for the Colts last year.

   This is believed to be the first free agent visit of any kind for June, who has received lots of interest but many teams have been waiting for his market value to settle.

  It's unlikely the Bucs would deal two No. 1 draft picks for Grant. Since 1993, only three franchise players have switched teams, none since 1998.

Grant coming to town

The word Thursday night was that Saints defensive end Charles Grant was to arrive in Tampa on Friday to visit the Bucs.

That's a pretty ambitious move by the Bucs to have Grant in for a visit considering he was designated New Orleans' franchise player, meaning acquiring him would come at a steep price for any suitor.

If the Bucs decided to sign Grant to an offer sheet, the Saints would have the right to match it. If they decide not to, Grant then would become property of the Bucs and would play under the contract outlined in the offer sheet. It would have to be a big one, too, considering Grant is scheduled to earn $8.6-million this fall under franchise player guidelines (the average of the five highest paid defensive ends). But an equally tough fact to swallow would be the two first round picks the Bucs would have to yield to New Orleans if the deal moved forward.

Of course, as is often the case with the Bucs, there could be more to this than meets the eye. Maybe the Bucs are just curious about Grant, possibly with an eye toward next year when he potentially becomes an unrestricted free agent. Or maybe, as some already have speculated, the Bucs are hoping to negotiate a trade for Grant. The Saints might be amenable to that considering they potentially could lose Grant without any compensation if he leaves as a free agent next season.

Time will tell, but this much we know: franchise players rarely get signed by other teams. It just doesn't make a lot of sense to mortgage a good portion of the future (two first-round picks) for a single player. With Tampa Bay picking fourth in this draft, it wouldn't seem like the Bucs would be willing to part with that pick without some serious soul searching.

Another issue for consideration: What would become of the Bucs current stable of defensive linemen? Simeon Rice is already the highest-paid player on the team and it would seem unlikely the Bucs would invest so richly in two defensive ends. Whether than means Rice ends up on the trading block remains to be seen. The fate of Greg Spires would also be a question, as he scheduled to earn more than $4-million this fall.

Garcia's brutal honesty

Quarterback Jeff Garcia made a brief appearance today on the Dan Patrick Show on ESPN radio, and when asked by Patrick what the outlook was for this fall's anticipated quarterback derby, Garcia said the following:

"If there's one guy who has the inside track, I would assume it's Chris Simms. He has started the most games (with the Bucs) of any of the quarterbacks who are coming back. But as far as that's concerned, I don't think he's shown enough to hold that position to himself. It's an open competition."

Ouch.

Now, we're not suggesting that Garcia is wrong. Anyone who watched Simms play the first three games of 2006 would surely agree. But, man, that was a rough way to put it. Guess sometimes the truth stings a little.

Garcia reiterated that his decision to leave Philadelphia stemmed largely from the Eagles' reluctance to allow Garcia to compete with Donovan McNabb for the starting job.

"I was told that," Garcia said. "That was pretty much the situation. There was no way around that."

Draft visit postponed -- again

Carolina Panthers free agent linebacker Chris Draft was slated to visit the Bucs today, but his stop in St. Louis, where he is visiting with the Rams, occupied much of his day Thursday. Draft is now expected to spend all of Friday in Tampa Bay with Bucs officials, according to his agent.

St. Louis' interest in draft isn't surprising as the Rams are particularly thin at the position. They currently have just four linebackers under contract.

There was no immediate indication as to whether the Rams were making a push to sign Draft. But his visit to Tampa is still on, so it doesn't appear anything is imminent with St. Louis.

QBs will impact Bucs

   LSU"s JaMarcus Russell had a stellar workout Wednesday. The Detroit Lions are fielding offers for their No. 2 overall pick from teams interested in taking Notre Dame's Brady Quinn. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers might be close to being traded from Green Bay to Oakland in exchange for receiver Randy Moss.

   There's a lot of posturing at the top of the NFL draft and it figures to eventually have an impact on the Bucs.

   Tampa Bay owns the No. 4 overall pick. If Russell and Quinn go in the top three picks, it means a player like Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson or Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas could be pushed down to the Bucs.

   On the other hand, if Oakland completes a deal for Rodgers, the Raiders could forget about Russell and select Johnson with the No. 1 overall pick.

   The Cleveland Browns reportedly have been ordered by their ownership to select a quarterback. That could be problematic for the Browns if a team like Miami, Houston or Minnesota traded ahead of them and landed the Lions No. 2 pick.

   It's still more than a month to the NFL draft, so there will be a lot of smokescreens and speculation. But quarterbacks always have the highest value, which is a good thing for Tampa Bay.

   Meanwhile, the Bucs have three more major needs to address in free agency - safety, guard and linebacker. Carolina linebacker Chris Draft is scheduled to visit the Bucs today. The Bucs could be looking to replace Shelton Quarles, who might be forced to retire due to health reasons.

   Tampa Bay also has an interest in Denver guard Cooper Carlisle after losing Sean Mahan to the Steelers. Former Colts safety MIke Doss has visited, but the Bucs appear to be waiting for the market to settle at that position.

   As the calender moves closer to April, look for the free agency action to slow down as the teams turn their focus to the NFL draft.

Bucs sign four free agents

   

   Hey, they're not exactly household names, but the Bucs continue to add depth to their defense.

   Tampa Bay announced the signing of four free agents Tuesday. The most recognizable player is cornerback Sammy Davis, a first-round pick (30th overall) of the San Diego Chargers in 2003 who was traded to the 49ers last season.

   The Bucs also offically announced the signing of 49ers free agent defensive tackle Lance Legree, former Raiders defensive tackle Kenny Smith and receiver Levon Thomas, a member of the Saints practice squad the past two seasons.

   Meanwhile, former Titans guard Zach Piller visited the Bucs on Tuesday, but the team has not offered him a contract. Piller, who was born in St. Petersburg, has started 58 of 87 games in the NFL.

   The Bucs have expressed an interest in Broncos guard Cooper Carlisle, but no visit has been scheduled, according to his agent Frank Murtha.    

   Legree played in 76 games with 25 starts as a member of the Giants (2001-04), Jets (2005) and  49ers (2006). His career stats include 138 tackles, seven sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one pass defensed.

   Davis could have the biggest impact. Last season, he played in 12 games with one start, totaling 30 tackles and eight passes defensed. He has three career interceptions, one forced fumble and one sack. The Bucs re-signed cornerbacks Phillip Buchanon and Torrie Cox. With Brian Kelly expected to return from a turf toe injury next season, there should be a pretty good battle for the nickelback spot between Juran Bolden, Buchanon, Davis and Cox.

   Finally, a bit of irony. Fired Bucs defensive backs coach Greg Burns has been hired to coach the same position with Kansas State. Burns replacement, Raheem Morris, was the defensive coordinator at K-State last season.

   

      

   

Cashing in on Plummer

   Even if Jake Plummer refuses to play another down of football, the Bucs will probably try to profit from the deal.

   Tampa Bay will give Denver a seventh round pick in the 2008 draft if Plummer does not play before then. If he renounces his retirement within the next 13 months, the Bucs will owe the Broncos a fourth rounder.

   What's unclear is whether Plummer had a forfeiture clause in his contract with the Broncos or if the terms of the trade designated Tampa Bay as the franchise to recover some of his original signing bonus.

   Plummer has three years left on a $40-million contract he signed with the Broncos in 2003. His original signing bonus was based on a seven-year deal. If Plummer plays less than that, he could be asked to pay back the pro-rated portion of that signing bonus. One report on SI.com estimates it at $7-million.

   So for a seventh-round pick, the Bucs could potentially net up to $7-million. Again, it's unclear if the Bucs would have to share any of this money with the Broncos. They also could potentially earn some savings on their salary cap.

   Mostly, the bundle of cash could go into the pocket of the Glazer family. That's a great deal for the Bucs owners and general manager Bruce Allen, who have a history of going after signing bonuses. Allen did it when receiver Keenan McCardell refused to play and eventually was traded to San Diego. McCardell lost a grievance and had to repay $1-million of his pro-rated signing bonus.

   The difference is this: The Bucs didn't pay a dime to Plummer. The bill for the signing bonus was footed by the Broncos. So you can expect the NFLPA to file a grievance against the Bucs if they try to recover any money from Plummer.

   Short of Plummer actually playing for the Bucs or Tampa Bay trading him to another team for more compensation than they gave Denver, it's a little fuzzy how this deal makes the Bucs a better football team.

   It can make the Glazers richer and Allen will look like the smartest GM in the room. But would it be more about getting over on Plummer than getting better?

   Plummer reiterated last Friday at an impromptu news conference that he is retired. End of story, he says. He wanted to say it publicly so reporters could look into his eyes and listen to his words.

   If you ever doubted the NFL is a business, not a game, consider what the Bucs could do to Jake Plummer. He never wore their uniform, they never actually paid him a dime, yet they could make him pay for his decision not to play. By taking a knee, the Bucs will throw Plummer for an even bigger loss. 

Draft's Visit Still On

Carolina free agent linebacker Chris Draft didn't exactly blow off the Bucs on Monday. His scheduled visit to Tampa Bay was simply pushed back a few days at the request of the team, according to his agent. Draft should be in Tampa on Thursday to meet with team officials. This will be Draft's second official visit after stopping in New Orleans last week.

The Bucs' interest in Draft could be an indication of the team's concern for the future of linebacker Shelton Quarles. Draft is primarily a middle linebacker, the same position as Quarles. With 2005 second-round pick Barrett Ruud installed as the heir apparent to Quarles, it wouldn't seem necessary to acquire another middle linebacker if Quarles was expected back.

That's just speculation at this point, but considering Quarles' admission that retirement is on the table as an option because of his health problems (including a series of concussions he admits to), it's not a far-fetched theory.

Mahan signs with Steelers

   Not really a good weekend for the Bucs brass.

   Free agent guard Sean Mahan reached an agreement Saturday with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The five-year deal is worth $17-million and includes a signing bonus believed to be about $4-million, according to ESPN.com.

    Mahan, who started 36 games in four seasons at guard and center for the Bucs, also visited Cleveland and Seattle and had been talking with the Bucs.

   Meanwhile, Falcons free agent fullback Justin Griffith reached an agreement with the Oakland Raiders. Griffith, a true west coast offense fullback, was the first player to visit Tampa Bay when the signing period began.

   The Bucs want to take four fullbacks to training camp and have two on their roster - Mike Alstott and B.J. Askew.

   And in case you missed it, Jake Plummer held an impromptu press conference in Denver to reaffirm that he was retiring. Seriously. Not much doubt about it.

   ""I wanted to come in and tell you guys on camera and face-to-face that the speculation can stop tonight,'' Plummer said Friday from the Denver Athletic Club. ""You can know by the looking in my face and hearing my words that I am retiring frrom the NFL. At 32 years old, I'm running away from the game. Not in fear or fright, but health-wise. I'm healthy. I'm happy. I have a lot to look forward to in my life.''

   

Dare We Say... Slow Day

This might have been the first normal day in a week on the Bucs beat. The lone press release from the team today dealt with the upcoming cheerleader tryouts (for all you voyeristic guys, they'll be held on March 31).

But there is always plenty happening behind the scenes. Bucs free agent offensive lineman Sean Mahan isn't out of the picture even though he was scheduled to arrive in Pittsburgh tonight to visit with the Steelers, the third team other than the Bucs to make a run at him (Seattle and Cleveland are the others). The Bucs continue to negotiate with Mahan but nothing seems imminent at the moment.

Elsewhere, the Bucs were expecting a visit from Colts safety Mike Doss Thursday, and their interest in him might grow now that Cincinnati free agent safety Kevin Kaesviharn moved closer to signing with New Orleans. The Bucs also were interested in Kaesviharn.

Another name on the Bucs' radar surfaced Thursday: Carolina free agent linebacker Chris Draft, who is planning to visit Tampa Bay in the coming days. Draft stepped in as starting middle linebacker for the Panthers last season. The interest in Draft would seem to be the clearest sign yet that the Bucs have doubts about the ability of Shelton Quarles to continue playing. Quarles said last week his career is in jeopardy because of medical issues, admitting to a string of concussions.

Simms:"I don't think I lost my job"

   Chris Simms expected the Bucs to sign at least one veteran quarterback in the off-season. He wasn't shocked when they acquired two.

   Despite the Bucs signing of Jeff Garcia and trading for Jake Plummer, Simms believes it will be an open competition for the starting job in training camp.

   Simms, who signed a two-year contract extension in Dec., broke his silence Wednesday about the Bucs sudden glut of quarterbacks. With the addition of Garcia and Plummer, the Bucs have five quarterbacks under contract.

   Appearing on the Dan Patrick Show on ESPN radio Wednesday, Simms said he had not yet spoken to coach Jon Gruden but believes he has not been replaced - yet.

   ""I don't think I lost my job, I'm not going to say that,'' Simms said. ""But I knew there was going be a competition during training camp, that's just the way it's going to be this year.''

  Simms was reminded that with Garcia age 37, the Eagles free agent did not come to Tampa Bay to be the backup quarterback.

   ""Maybe not. I don't know. But I haven't been told anything different,'' Simms said. ""I don't know if he has. But from what I know right now, nobody is the starting quarterback. I haven't heard coach Gruden come out and say anything or Bruce Allen. So right now, I just think it's an open job.''

   Simms said he was kept informed of the Bucs plans over the weekend by general manager Bruce Allen. But Simms said he can't fight the perception that he's not a proven starter in the NFL. Simms went 0-3 last season before rupturing his spleen and finishing the year on injured reserve.

   ""I have complete confidence in myself,'' Simms said. ""But at the same time, I try to be real with myself and the perception out there is that I haven't proven myself yet. I understand that. You know me, I welcome all challenges, always.''

   Simms was asked if he thought the Bucs were done stocking up on quarterbacks?

   ""Who knows with us,'' Simms said. ""They might draft Brady Quinn.''

 

      

Bucs Curious About Moss?

It's hardly news when the Bucs inquire about a player who may or may not be available. They are notorious for considering all possible acquisitions, whether the player be old, young, overweight or undersized.

But the latest rumor making the rounds is juicy enough to discuss, even if it's about as far-fetched as they come. Word is the Bucs are interested in Oakland receiver Randy Moss, the disgruntled Raider for whom Oakland is thought to be entertaining trade offers.

The Bucs are just the latest team to be linked to Moss. Already, the Packers and Patriots are said to be interested in trading for him.

Before you go making reservations for the Super Bowl, understand a few things. If -- and that's a big IF -- the Bucs were able to orchestrate a trade for Moss, the biggest hurdle would be the finances. Moss has a base salary of $9.75-million for 2007, and his salary-cap charge would be even higher. For 2008, Moss is due to make $11.25-million in the final year of the deal. For both seasons, he would be the highest paid player on Tampa Bay's roster by a mile. And teams don't just go around taking on nearly $10-million on their salary caps without some serious thought about the ramifications.

Okay, so why not restructure the deal after such a trade, you ask. Because Moss is not likely to be amenable to a pay cut, particularly a sizable one. Asking him to take one could be a deal breaker. That would be an agreement the pursuing team would insist Moss agree to before the trade is finalized, and when have we ever known Moss to cooperate?

So, this should make for some interesting talk radio buzz, but all in all, we wouldn't bet the farm that this deal gets done. If we hear otherwise, we'll let you know.

In closing, let's pose a question: As a Bucs fan, would you want Moss -- and all the potential distractions that come with him -- on your team? Do share.

Bucs sign Petitgout

   The Bucs could have a new left tackle next season.

   Tampa Bay signed Giants free agent Luke Petitgout Tuesday. Terms of the deal were not released, but it is believed to be a 3-year, $15.5-million contract. The deal includes a $3-million signing bonus.

    Petitgout, who will be 31 in June, started nine games last season before suffering a fractured fibula which forced him to miss the rest of the year.

      But there may be other concerns about Petitgout, who visited the Washington Redskins Monday. Citing NFL sources, the Washington Post reported that Petitgout has back problems.

   That should be a warning signal to Bucs fans, who remember former 49ers tackle Derrick Deese, another veteran offensive lineman with a history of back problems that eventually was forced to retire.

   At 6-foot-6, 308-pounds, Petitgout could move inside and play guard. But the Bucs plans would likely be to play him at left tackle since Anthony Davis struggles against NFL pass rushers. Davis is considering moving to left guard.

   Another offensive lineman coveted by the Bucs, 49ers center Jeremy Newberry, has signed with the Oakland Raiders.

   Falcons fullback Justin Griffith, one of the first free agents to visit the Bucs, visited Green Bay Tuesday.

            

Carter Deal Sealed

The Bucs have acquired their second defensive player during this free agency period by inking defensive end Kevin Carter to a four-year deal worth as much as $25-million.

Carter, who was released by the Dolphins last week after he and the team failed to reach an agreement on a restructured contract, made the Bucs his first free-agent stop.

The 33-year-old pass rusher has the versatility to play on the edge but can also be utilized as an interior lineman.

Linebacker Patrick Chuwurah was the Bucs' first defensive signing, joining the Bucs on Friday.

As the Bucs Turn

The ongoing soap opera otherwise known as the Tampa Bay Bucs has another chapter.

The lastest regarding new acqusition Jake Plummer: The NFL says it has not been informed of his decision to retire. That might not mean anything in the long run, but it would seem to invalidate any claim that the trade that sent Plummer from Denver to Tampa Bay was made after notification of his retirement.

An NFL spokesman said the retirement process works as follows: a player must send a letter to the commissioner informing the league of his intention to retire. The league then notifies the player's team, which then has the option of keeping the player on its roster or moving him to the reserved-retired list.

Carter close; Mahan making rounds

Defensive end Kevin Carter was slated to be in Tampa today, and with any luck, the Bucs are hoping he won't leave without a contract. Talks are ongoing right now and a deal could be struck by the end of the night.

Carter, 33, would add size to the Bucs' defensive line. He is 6-6 and 305 pounds and played left defensive tackle with the Dolphins.

Meanwhile, Bucs free agent guard Sean Mahan, with whom the team is still negotiating, will make visits with the Cleveland Browns today and the Seattle Seahawks on Tuesday, according to NFL.com.

Mahan is in demand because of his versatility. He has the ability to play guard and center, and the Bucs project him as a center in the long run.

Answers Elusive

We know what you're thinking: "Huh?"

Same  here.

But today's goal is to get some clarity on the Jake Plummer situation. To recap: the Bucs signed Eagles free agent Jeff Garcia to a two-year contract on Saturday. That certainly made sense. But minutes after announcing that deal, they revealed they also had completed a trade for Denver quarterback Jake Plummer, giving up an undisclosed draft pick in exchange.

One problem: Plummer has announced his retirement, and he told the Bucs of those plans BEFORE the deal was completed. So, now the Bucs have a quarterback on their roster who doesn't want to be there, they've given up a draft pick for him even though he may never don a Bucs uniform, and what the heck does Chris Simms, the incumbent, think of all this madness?

A key here is Plummer's actual status. Is he officially retired? It doesn't appear so considering there hasn't been any mention of him on the NFL's transactions lists in recent days. But did he file the paperwork necessary to begin the retirement process, as we at the Times were told? And if so, did he do so before or after the trade became official? (Still with us?) Don't be surprised to see the players' union get involved in this one if it's determined the trade might have been improper (you can't trade a retired player). And what do the Bucs intend to do with Plummer now? Might they attempt to trade him to a team he's willing to play for?

As for the draft pick, Bucs general manager Bruce Allen spoke in cryptic terms when grilled about the subject. We're still unclear whether the Bucs must yield the pick if Plummer never plays for them. The conversation with Allen on Saturday went something like this...

Reporter: "Is this a conditional draft pick?" (The Broncos press release says it is)

Allen: "No. There's other conditions with the pick we sent. . . They're undisclosed."

Reporter: "So, it IS a conditional pick?"

Allen: "No."

The other interesting question is where is Chris Simms? He hasn't spoken about the moves made over the weekend, but it's got to be at least a little worrisome for him. That said, signing Garcia wasn't a shocker, and Simms said back in January he fully expected the Bucs to sign another quarterback to compete with him in training camp. But we're guessing Simms never expected the Bucs to sign TWO quarterbacks.

Stay tuned. This story is far from over.

Carter the Next Target

Free agent defensive end Kevin Carter, released by the Dolphins on Friday, will visit the Bucs Monday as Tampa Bay attempts to beef up a lackluster pass rush.

Carter's agent, Harold Lewis, said Tampa will be the former Pro Bowler's first, and hopefully last, visit.

"If the coaching (staff) and management like what they see and we can get a deal done, then I see no reason for him to take any other visits," Lewis said.

"They're one of the teams he's fascinated by the chance to play for."

One factor working in the Bucs' favor is that Carter, a former UF standout and native Floridian, would like to remain in the state. Other interested teams include the Denver Broncos and Tennessee Titans, though no other visits have been scheduled.

Lewis portrayed Carter as a player who would be an asset on and off the field.

"On the field, he's what they're looking for, but off the field, he'd be a great addition for them," Lewis said. "He's a great guy to have in the locker room, a guy who can mentor young players."

Carter's also a pretty formidable player. The two-time Pro Bowl selection has 97.5 career sacks and started 16 games for Miami in 2006 with 5.5 sacks. And he is renowned for his durability, having never missed a game in his 12 NFL seasons.

In 1999, as a member of the Rams, Carter posted a league-high 17 sacks -- the most by a Rams player since Jack Youngblood's 18 in 1979. If the Bucs reach a deal with Carter, it is unclear what that might mean for right defensive end Greg Spires. Carter also played RDE for Miami, plus Spires has a base salary of $4.5-million for 2007.

Keep checking here and see tomorrow's St. Petersburg Times for more free agency developments. They seem to change by the minute.

Bucs sign Jets backup FB

   Mike Alstott has nothing to worry about yet.

   The Bucs signed Jets fullback  B.J. Askew to a two-year contract with the Bucs Saturday, according to his agent Scott Smith. General manager Bruce Allen said the Bucs plan to bring four fullbacks to camp.

   The 6-foot-3, 233-pound Askew played in 55 games with the Jets, starting just six. He has been used primarily as a special teams player.

   The Bucs continue to negotiate with Falcons free agent fullback Justin Griffith.

Plummer Calls it a Career

A long, bizarre day has ended with Jake Plummer announcing his retirement.

After being traded to Tampa Bay earlier Saturday, Plummer posted a message on his charitable foundation's website saying his retirement was official.

"I want to thank my family and close friends for their loyal support through these fun-filled, roller-coaster years," he wrote. "Secondly, I owe all of my greatest achievements in football to the men who stood by me as teammates and coaches.

"Football has been awesome to me in many ways. I leave the game with my health and happiness and look forward to the future. I've got many rivers to cross."

We've learned Plummer filed his paperwork for retirement on Friday, but the process is not yet complete. It's expected to be be finalized early in the week. Bucs general manager Bruce Allen said earlier in the day the team was hoping Plummer would have a change of heart.

Plummer's decision to step away won't really affect the Bucs, though it's unclear whether they'll still lose the conditional 2008 draft pick they gave up to get him. For the Bucs, there will be no financial or salary-cap implications if he proceeds with retirement.

With Plummer likely out of the picture, the quarterback position will be a two-man race in training camp between returner Chris Simms, who is coming off a season-ending injury, and veteran Jeff Garcia, who signed a two-year contract with Tampa Bay on Saturday.

And with that, it's time to catch up on some sleep. Been a long few days on the Bucs beat.

Report: White signs with Lions

   The Bucs need Simeon Rice now more than ever.

   Defensive end Dewayne White signed a five-year, $29-million contract with the Detroit Lions Saturday, according to the NFL.com.

   White, who had five sacks last season, will be reunited with Lions coach Rod Marinelli, the Bucs former defensive line coach.

   The Bucs are banking on Rice recovering from shoulder surgery that forced him to go on injured reserve after just eight games and two sacks last season.

    

Bucs Get QB...Make that Two

     Its quarterbacks galore in Tampa.

     The Bucs signed free agent quarterback Jeff Garcia today to a two-year, $7-million contract that could reach as high as $14.5-million with escalators. But then the Bucs announced a shocker when it was revealed by general manager Bruce Allen the proposed trade for Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer was indeed finalized.

    Allen acknowledged Plummer's wishes to retire, adding the team knew about Plummer's stance before it executed the trade. But Allen said discussions with Plummer will continue with hopes he will have a change of heart. Speculation has already begun that the Bucs could attempt to trade Plummer, though Allen rejected that theory. Allen did acknowledge the possibility that Plummer will sit out 2007, which might be a foreshadowing of a retirement.

Just 24 hours earlier, word spread through the league that the trade was dead because of Plummer's decision to retire rather than start anew with a new team. But the Bucs went forward with the deal anyhow, giving up what the Broncos say is a conditional draft pick in 2008.

Garcia, 37, had been negotiating with the Oakland Raiders, too. But those talks reached an impasse Friday and Garcia was believed to be considering offers from Tampa Bay and the Houston Texans.

   The Bucs finally are willing to pay Garcia like a starter, something they have not done the past three offseasons. Garcia's deal could reach its maximum value if he reaches a variety of incentives, mainly leading the Bucs to the playoffs in 2007 and 2008. But he wasn't guaranteed a starting job.

   "I do want to start," Garcia said. "I believe I can contribute to this team."

   Coach Jon Gruden told Garcia he be part of a "wide-open" quarterback battle when training camp arrives in July, Garcia said.

   Garcia will compete with quarterback Chris Simms.

   Garcia had expressed an interest to play for a team that has a chance to become a playoff contender. The Bucs went 4-12 last season but entered free agency $24-million under the salary cap and have been players in the free agent market.

   Gruden has always believed Garcia would be a nice fit in his offense because of his ability to move in the pocket and make plays with his arm and his feet.

   Last season, Garcia proved he is still very effective after taking over for injured quarterback Donovan McNabb and leading the Eagles to an NFC East title. He was stunned when the Eagles decided not to offer him a contract, signing backup A.J. Feeley to a three-year extension instead.

Now, he has his payday and realistic shot at earning a starting job.

Steinbach signs with Browns

   Cancel that visit with Eric Steinbach in Tampa Bay.

   The Bengals offensive lineman, one of the most coveted free agents by the Bucs, signed a 7-year, $49-million contract with the Cleveland Browns Friday, according to reports.

   Steinbach was scheduled to visit with the Bucs on Saturday and was penciled in at left tackle.

   However, the Bucs continue to negotiate with Giants left tackle Luke Petitgout and will have 49ers center Jeremy Newberry in this weekend. But the big fish never was on the hook.       

White visits Detroit

   

   The Bucs could be on the verge of losing Dewayne White.

   The free agent defensive end is visiting the Detroit Lions today, where he could be reunited with coach Rod Marinelli.

   White, 27, recorded five sacks last year and started eight games at right defensive end in place of Simeon Rice, who suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.

   ""First of all, he has great familiarity with the coaching staff. That helps,'' Lions general manager Matt Millen said of White. ""So that eliminates the learning curve. Secondly, he has great familiarity with the scheme. He has position flexibility. He can play right and left. He can play inside.

   ""I personally believe he has an upside yet.  He hasn't hit it yet. He's young and he's turning into what he will become. And I also happen to believe that for him to do that, the best way for him is to be here because our head coach got him going and will take him to the next level.''

   Marinelli, who coached White for three seasons in Tampa Bay before becoming the Lions head coach, is looking for a pass-rushing defensive end to play alongside defensive tackle Cory Redding, the team's franchise player.

   White figures to be one of the most coveted players in free agency, especially since many of the top defensive ends were franchised.

   ""I just think if you're a defensive lineman, (Detroit) is where you'd want to be.''

   The Bucs also will receive a visit this weekend from longtime 49ers center Jeremy Newberry.

   The 30-year-old Newberry underwent surgery to repair a microfracture in his right knee last August.

   The Bucs are battling with the Cleveland Browns for Bengals guard Eric Steinbach, who will visit Tampa Bay Saturday.

  Steinbach can play either guard or tackle and has only missed one game in his career. Pretty busy start of free agency for the Bucs, eh?

         

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.

Plummer Deal Dead; Petitgout, Harris Next Targets

It's back to the drawing board for the Bucs.

After working feverishly during the past 24 hours to execute a trade that would have netted disgruntled Denver quarterback Jake Plummer, the deal now is reportedly dead because of Plummer's decision to retire.

The news, reported by NFL.com, follows a series of events that began unfolding late Thursday, when the Bucs learned Plummer was less than thrilled with the prospect of coming to Tampa Bay. Plummer has said privately he does not envision himself as a backup and is not interested in competing for a starting job. Meanwhile, the Bucs almost certainly envisioned him going to training camp having to earn the job in a position battle with Chris Simms.

Late Thursday, Bucs coach Jon Gruden was believed to be trying to reach Plummer to smooth things over, but this latest news indicates that effort was unsuccessful. The news isn't a total shock: Plummer had been considering retirement in recent weeks.

Now, the Bucs likely will refocus their efforts to land a veteran quarterback on Eagles free agent Jeff Garcia and Vikings free agent Brad Johnson -- a former Buc.

In other news, the Bucs are nearing an agreement on the terms of a contract with Giants free agent offensive lineman Luke Petitgout, who underwent a physical in Tampa on Wednesday, and Vikings free agent linebacker Napolean Harris. Harris was a first-round pick of Bucs general manager Bruce Allen in Oakland in 2002. Harris was scheduled for a visit and things appear to be heating up.

Buchanon's Return the Latest News

As the Jake Plummer story continues to unfold (see below), the news keeps coming. The latest: the Bucs have re-signed cornerback Phillip Buchanon to a two-year deal.

Buchanon joined the Bucs in October, joining the team as a free agent after being let go by the Texans. He eventually became a key cog in the secondary after starting cornerback Brian Kelly's season-ending foot surgery. With Kelly's future health not entirely certain, coupled with the fact Buchanon played well as the nickelback, the Bucs made retaining him a priority.

The former first-round pick out of Miami played in 14 games, starting four. He finished with 30 tackles and two interceptions.

Plummer Deal Nearly Done; Griffith visits

It looks like Jake the Snake will wind his way through One Buc Place.

   The Bucs and Broncos have reached an agreement in principle to send Denver quarterback Jake Plummer to Tampa Bay, this after a strong push by the Bucs late Thursday to orchestrate the trade. The Broncos are expected to receive a mid-round draft pick in exchange, possible a fourth-round choice.

     Look for Plummer to compete with Chris Simms for the starting job in training camp, allowing coach Jon Gruden to make good on his assurance that there likely would be a quarterback competition in the fall.

   The Bucs wasted no time jumping into market with free agency beginning at 12:01 this morning. Just prior to the start of the signing period, word quickly spread in NFL circles the Bucs were on the verge of making the deal for Plummer.

  Elsewhere, Atlanta Falcons fullback Justin Griffith will visit the Bucs today, one day after the team signed fullback Mike Alstott to a one-year, $1.5-million contract.

   Alstott's role may change again in '07 if the Bucs are able to land Griffith, who could be used as a lead blocker for Cadillac Williams.

   The Bucs also have targeted Cincinnati Bengals guard Eric Steinbach, who will visit the Bucs on Saturday according to his representative. Steinbach could play either left guard or left tackle for the Bucs. 

   Plummer, 32, also has drawn interest from the Houston Texans where he would be reunited with former Broncos quarterbacks coach Gary Kubiak.

   The Bucs entered the free agent signing period Friday intent on upgrading the quarterback position. There were many possibilities, but trading for Plummer was Gruden's first priority. That became clear when the Bucs backed off from their pursuit of Eagles free agent Jeff Garcia Brad Johnson, who was released by the Vikings this week.

With Plummer, the Bucs get a player who is just one season removed from taking the Broncos to the AFC Championship game. But the veteran became expendable when he surrendered his job last season to rookie Jay Cutler. He has three years remaining on his contract, which might be restructured. Plummer is scheduled to earn base salaries of $5.3-million in '07, $4.8-million in '08 and $5.8-million in '09.

  The Bucs have more than $24-million to spend on free agency. It's going to be a wild week, so hang on.

Walker released; A New Lineman Being Pursued

Tackle Kenyatta Walker was released by the Bucs Thursday.

The former first-round pick from Florida spent most of last year on injured reserve with a season-ending knee injury. The Bucs plan to go with Jeremy Trueblood at right tackle, the team's second-round pick from Boston College.

Free agency begins tonight at 12:01 a.m., and the Bucs may make an immediate splash. One of the players they have set their sights on is Cincinnati G/T Eric Steinbach. The four-year veteran has started 62 of 63 games in his career, and his ability to play two positions would make him a key addition for the Bucs. But there likely will be competition for Steinbach, one of the more coveted offensive linemen available in free agency.

      

    

Alstott Back; Quarles on the Way Out?

Longtime Bucs fullback Mike Alstott has agreed to terms on a contract with the Bucs, ensuring he'll return for a 12th season in Tampa Bay. Meanwhile, the Times has learned veteran linebacker Shelton Quarles is leaning toward retirement. More on that later.

Though Alstott has not signed the contract yet, all parties have agreed Alstott will play under a contract almost identical to the one he signed last season, for $1.5-million.

Alstott and his agents asked the Bucs to resolve Alstott's situation before the start of free agency, which begins this evening at 12:01 a.m. So, things clearly went down to the wire.

The timing of Alstott's return last season, when the sides agreed to a one-year contract worth about $1.5-million, was nearly identical. Alstott again is expected to be used in short-yardage situations and occasionally as a receiver out of the backfield.

The decision to bring back Alstott helps the Bucs avoid a likely public-relations disaster. Alstott is arguably most popular player in the franchise's three-decade history. Still, the Bucs may not be done with their fullback lineup. They are said to be pursuing another fullback in free agency, whose identity wasn't immediately clear.

Elsewhere, Quarles, made an appearance Thursday to talk about his upcoming USO tour to the Persian Gulf, but talk quickly turned to his health after playing through an injury-plagued 2006 season. The starting middle linebacker later divulged that he is undergoing a series of examinations by doctors to determine whether it is advisable for the 35-year-old to continue playing.

Quarles was not specific when pressed about the nature of his medical issues. But he did say the concerns were voiced only recently, and not by him. Quarles hopes to have a resolution "inside of a month," he said.

"I've never had a second thought about my ability to play football," he said. "It doesn't have anything to do with me. Trust me."

The Bucs have long envisioned backup Barrett Ruud as the future at middle linebacker. But for the past two seasons, Quarles has been able to outplay the second-round pick from Nebraska. Also, middle linebacker is one of the most critical and mental positions on the defense, with that player responsible for receiving play calls from the sideline and calling the defense in the huddle.

Quarles is entering the final season of his contract and is scheduled to earn $1.3-million in base salary for 2007.