Bucs release Bolden

The Bucs' draft has claimed its first casualties.

Cornerback Juran Bolden was released Monday as part of a five-player purge.

The Bucs also withdrew the qualifying offer from cornerback/safety Blue Adams and released safety Tra Boger, longsnapper Adam Johnson and defensive tackle Kenny Smith.

Bolden, 33, was the Bucs' primary nickelback the past two seasons, playing in all 32 games and producing 116 tackles, three interceptions, one sack and 22 passes defensed. He was a key replacement at left cornerback following the season-ending toe injury to starter Brian Kelly.

Adams saw little action at safety but was a big contributor on special teams, playing in 29 games and recording 32 coverage tackles and one forced fumble. Boger, Johnson and Smith were signed after the 2006 season ended.

General manager Bruce Allen made good on his promise to release at least a handful of players following the draft in which the Bucs selected at least one defensive player in every round, including two safeties and a cornerback.

In addition to the draft, Bolden became expendable when the Bucs' re-signed cornerback Phillip Buchanon as an unrestricted free agent and added 49ers free agent cornerback Sammy Davis.

 

 

 

 

Adams blindsided by leak

Bucs first-round pick Gaines Adams reacted with shock when he learned from watching television that his admission to trying marijuana was leaked just days prior to the draft.

Adams, who was introduced this morning in Tampa, said the release of information from supposed confidential interviews hit him hard not only because of its potential impact on his draft status, but because he cares deeply about a reputation he said he has worked for.

"My name is a good name," Adams said. "That's all I want people to know. When that came out, it put a glitch on me and my family. . . I was hurt that the whole world saw it. I don't want people to think about me like that. I was very upset. I was just telling the truth."

Adams made the admission during interviews with select teams during the NFL draft combine in February. But he said today his experimentation with the drug happened in high school.

On Saturday in New York, league commissioner Roger Goodell made a personal apology to Adams, which surprised the player. Adams worried the news would hurt his stock, but clearly it didn't.

"With the way they're trying to straighten out the league," he said, "I was like that could have dropped me dramatically."

Bucs sign Jerramy Stevens

Not only did the Bucs pick up 10 new draft picks this weekend. They also signed a player with a troubled past: Seattle free agent tight end Jerramy Stevens.

Stevens, who visited with the Bucs last month, was arrested on marijuana-related charges in March in Arizona, the latest in a long line of run-ins with law enforcement over the past several years. That comes in addition to at least two other alcohol-related arrests since 2000, which both led to brief jail sentences.

But Stevens isn't a half-bad player. The 27-year old notched his best season in 2005 when he caught 45 passes for 554 yards and five touchdowns. At 6-7 and 265 pounds, he is a load physically, but Stevens must overcome his well-documented difficulties catching the ball.

The addition of Stevens will likely get the attention of Anthony Becht and Alex Smith, two tight ends already on the roster. Becht isn't much of a receiving threat and Smith is coming off a disappointing sophomore season.

The terms of the deal weren't immediately available.

Meet Kenneth Darby

Position: Running back.

Height: 5-10.

Weight: 211.

College: Alabama.

Highlights/stats: Darby blossomed with a 1,000-yard season as a sophomore and was named first-team All-SEC with 1,200 yards as a junior. His production dipped to 800 yards as a senior while Alabama struggled, causing his draft status to drop.

The verdict: A tough, north-south runner early in his career at Alabama, Darby ran side-to-side too much as a senior. If the Bucs can get him back to the form he showed as a junior, they could have a find, though making the roster at running back will be a challenge.

(Photo: Getty Images. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Marcus Hamilton

Position: Cornerback.

Height: 5-11.

Weight: 188.

College: Virginia.

Highlights/stats: Hamilton played in 49 career games at UVA with 15 interceptions, five as a senior. He was a second-team All-ACC performer during his junior and senior seasons.

The verdict: Hamilton is at his best in zone coverage, which makes him a good fit for the Bucs' Cover Two scheme. The top three corners on the depth chart - Ronde Barber, Brian Kelly and Juran Bolden - are in their 30s, and 2006 draft pick Alan Zemaitis struggled as a rookie, making this a need position for Tampa Bay. By the way, this is not the first time the Bucs drafted a corner from Virginia: Barber was a third-round pick in 1997.

(Photo: Getty Images. Click to enlarge.)

Bucs done drafting

The Bucs spent their final two draft picks, Nos. 245 and 246, on Virginia cornerback Marcus Hamilton and Alabama running back Kenneth Darby. Hamilton has size for a corner at 5-11, 188. Darby was an All-SEC performer as a junior, but his production slipped as a senior, causing his draft rating to drop as well.

Meet Chris Denman

Position: Offensive tackle.

Height: 6-6.

Weight: 315.

College: Fresno State.

Highlights/stats: A former walkon, Denman started the final 43 straight games of his career at right tackle.

The verdict: Unheralded but consistent, Denman will be called upon by the Bucs to add much-needed depth at the tackle position behind 2006 rookie starter Jeremy Trueblood. He is a better pass blocker than run blocker.

(Photo: Fresno Bee. Click to enlarge.)

Meet Adam Hayward

Position: Outside linebacker.

Height: 6-0.

Weight: 235.

College: Portland State.

Highlights/stats: Hayward, who had Bucs OLB Derrick Brooks' picture on his wall growing up, played six different positions and wore five different jersey numbers at two schools during his college career. He played free safety, strong safety, tailback and flanker in three seasons at Colorado State. At Portland State, he played defensive end before hitting his stride at outside linebacker. As a senior, he led the team with 104 tackles and had 9.5 sacks, 16.5 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries to earn All-American and All-conference honors in Division I-AA.

The verdict: Hayward fits the Bucs' mold of smallish outside linebackers. He will add depth and likely play special teams.

(Photo: The Oregonian. Click to enlarge.)

Bucs add offensive tackle

Early in the seventh and final round of the 2007 draft, the Bucs selected Fresno State offensive tackle Chris Denman, a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference performer last season. With the Bucs, he should add depth at right tackle behind 2006 rookie starter Jeremy Trueblood. The Bucs have two picks remaining, Nos. 245 and 246 late in the round.

Another linebacker on board

The Bucs went for (surprise!) defense again, picking Portland State linebacker Adam Heyward in the sixth round.

At 6-0, 235 pounds, Heyward bears many resemblances to the Bucs' typical smallish, quick linebackers. He played strong-side linebacker during his senior year

Meet Tanard Jackson

Position: DB.

Height: 6-0.

Weight: 200.

College: Syracuse.

Highlights: Started his last 34 games for the Orangemen. Ranked sixth on the team in tackles in 2006 with 62, and forced two fumbles. Was named a second-team All-Big East selection last season.

The verdict: Jackson will likely move to safety with the Bucs, who began exploring that possibility at the Senior Bowl in January. He will have to make the transition after playing solely cornerback at Syracuse, but he seems to have the skills necessary.

Meet Greg Peterson

Position: DT/DE.

Height: 6-5.

Weight: 286.

College: North Carolina Central.

Highlights/stats: After two seasons at Hinds Community College (Miss.) and two at Division II North Carolina Central, Peterson was tabbed a "Hidden Gem" after he ran a 4.73 in the 40 yard dash. As a senior, he ranked 13th in the NCAA with 19.5 tackles for loss, including 7.5 sacks. He also had two fumble recoveries.

The verdict: Peterson will need some time to develop in terms of technique, but his combination of speed and strength make him a versatile addition to the Bucs' defensive front. He played mostly tackle in college, and the Bucs see him as a candidate to play under tackle, though he has the ability to move outside.

Another defensive player

With the fourth pick of the fifth round, No.141 overall, the Bucs took North Carolina Central defensive end Greg Peterson. At 6-5, 282 he is versatile, able to play inside or outside, but  consdered a long-range prospect who will need time to develop.

Fifth round underway

Finally, the fifth round is underway. The Bucs have the fourth pick of the round, No.141 overall, so they'll be on the clock soon. They've already selected four defensive players among their first five picks, but don't be surprised to see them add another linebacker or some depth for the middle of the defensive line. On offense, they could use another receiver. ...Stay tuned.

Randy Moss sent to Patriots

The Associated Press reports that Randy Moss is on the verge of becoming a Patriot after New England agreed to send a fourth-round pick in Sunday's draft to Oakland for the wide receiver. Read more here.

Another defensive back

The Bucs have plucked another defensive back, picking Syracuse's Tanard Jackson with their first pick of the fourth round.

Jackson, 6-0, 200 pounds, would seem to have good coverage skills, which is something the Bucs are seeking in their safeties. Having played cornerback for the better part of three seasons, his ball skills and man-to-man coverage ability should be a strength.

For the Bucs, Jackson will initially play safety. According to defensive backs coach Raheem Morris, the team's scouts last season identified him as a player who could make the transition, and the Bucs immediately made the switch when coaching him in the Senior Bowl in January. When he showed the necessary skills to play safety, the Bucs made up their minds that's where he would play if he ended up in Tampa Bay.

Jackson, for his part, is on board.

"I'm very comfortable with (safety)," Jackson said. "I'm confident in my ability to be able to make the transition. The Bucs came right out with it and told me they saw me as a safety in the NFL."

Early deal

The Bucs have made a deal in the early going, trading down with Minnesota from No. 102 overall to 106 overall. In exchange, Minnesota gives the Bucs its sixth-round pick, No. 182 overall. The Bucs did not previously have a sixth-round pick.

Bucs take Adams, Sears, Piscitelli, Black

NFL Draft
First round

1. Raiders - JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU

2. Lions - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech

3. Browns - Joe  Thomas, T, Wisconsin

4. Bucs - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson (right)

5. Cardinals - Levi Brown, T, Penn State

6. Redskins - LaRon Landry, S, LSU

7. Vikings - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

8. Falcons - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

9. Dolphins - Ted Ginn,  Jr., WR, Ohio State

10. Texans - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville

11. 49ers - Patrick Willis, LB, Mississippi

12. Bills - Marshawn Lynch, RB, California

13. Rams - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska

14. Jets (from Panthers) - Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh

15. Steelers - Lawrence Timmons, Florida State

16. Packers - Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee

17. Broncos (from Jaguars) - Jarvis Moss, DE, Florida

18. Bengals - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan

19. Titans - Michael Griffin, S, Texas

20. Giants - Aaron Ross, CB, Texas

21. Jaguars - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida

22. Browns (from Cowboys) - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

23. Chiefs - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU

24. Patriots - Brandon Meriweather S, Miami

25. Panthers - Jon Beason, LB, Miami

26. Cowboys (from Eagles) - Anthony Spencer, DE, Purdue

27. Saints - Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee

28. 49ers (from Patriots) - Joe Staley, T, Central Michigan

29. Ravens - Ben Grubbs, G, Auburn

30. Chargers - Craig Davis, WR, LSU

31. Bears - Greg Olsen, TE, Miami

32. Colts - Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Ohio State

Second round

33. Cardinals (from Raiders) - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan

34. Bills (from Lions) - Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn State

35. Bucs - Arron Sears, G, Tennessee

36. Eagles (from Browns through Cowboys) - Kevin Kolb, QB, Houston

37. Chargers (from Redskins through Jets, Bears) - Eric Weddle, S, Utah

38. Raiders (from Cardinals) - Zach Miller, TE, Arizona State

39. Falcons (from Texans) - Justin Blalock, G, Texas

40. Dolphins - John Beck, QB, Brigham Young

41. Falcons (from Vikings) - Chris Houston,  CB, Arkansas

42. Colts (from 49ers) - Tony Ugoh, T, Arkansas

43. Lions (from Bills) - Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan State

44. Vikings (from Falcons) - Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina

45. Panthers - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC

46. Steelers - LaMarr Woodley, DE, Michigan

47. Jets (from Packers)- David Harris, LB, Michigan

48. Jaguars - Justin Durant, LB, Hampton

49. Bengals - Kenny Irons, RB, Auburn

50. Titans - Chris Henry, RB, Arizona

51. Giants - Steve Smith, WR, USC

52. Rams - Brian Leonard, FB, Rutgers

53. Browns - Eric Wright, CB, Nevada-Las Vegas

54. Chiefs - Turk McBride, DE, Tennessee

55. Seahawks - Josh Wilson, CB, Maryland

56. Broncos - Tim Crowder, DE, Texas

57. Eagles - Victor Abiamiri, DE, Notre Dame

58. Lions (from Saints) - Ikaika Alama-Francis, DE, Hawaii

59. Panthers - Ryan Kalil, C, Southern Cal

60. Dolphins - Samson Satele, C, Hawaii

61. Lions (from Ravens)  - Gerald Alexander, FS, Boise State

62. Bears - Dan Bazuin, DE, Central Michigan

63. Packers - Brandon Jackson, RB, Nebraska

64. Bucs - Sabby Piscitelli, S, Oregon State

Third round

65. Raiders - Quentin Moses, DE, Georgia

66. Saints (from Lions) - Usama Young,  CB, Kent

67. Cowboys (from Browns) - James Marten, T, Boston College

68. Bucs - Quincy Black, LB, New Mexico

69. Cardinals - Buster Davis, LB, Florida State

70. Broncos (from Redskins) - Ryan Harris, T, Notre Dame

71. Dolphins- Lorenzo Booker, RB, Florida State

72. Vikings - Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno State

73. Texans - Jacoby Jones, WR, Lane

74. Ravens (from Bills through Lions) - Yamon Figurs, RS, Kansas State

75. Falcons - Laurent Robinson, WR, Illinois State

76. 49ers - Jason Hill, WR, Washington State

77. Steelers - Matt Spaeth, TE, Minnesota

78. Packers - James Jones, WR, San Jose State

79. Jaguars - Mike Walker, WR, Central Florida

80. Titans - Paul Williams, WR, Fresno State

81. Giants - Jay Alford, DT, Penn State

82. Chiefs (from Rams) - Tank Tyler, DT, North Carolina St.

83. Panthers - Charles Johnson, DE, Georgia

84. Rams (from Chiefs) - Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee

85. Seahawks - Brandon Mebane, DT, California

86. Ravens (from Broncos through Jaguars) - Marshal Yanda, T, Iowa

87. Eagles (from Cowboys) - Stewart Bradley, LB, Nebraska

88. Saints - Andy Alleman, G, Akron

89. Packers (from Jets) - Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Tech

90. Eagles - Tony Hunt, RB, Penn State

91. Raiders (from Patriots) - Mario Henderson, T, Florida State

92. Bills (from Ravens) - Trent Edwards, QB, Stanford

93. Bears (from Chargers) - Garrett Wolfe, RB, Northern Illinois

94. Bears - Michael Okwo, LB, Stanford

95. Colts - Daymeion Hughes, CB, California

96. Chargers (compensatory) - Anthony Waters, LB, Clemson

97. 49ers (compensatory) - Ray McDonald, DE, Florida

98. Colts (compensatory) - Quinn Pitcock, DT, Ohio State

99. Raiders (compensatory) - Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR, UTEP

Shelton: Day 1 is in the books

Gary Shelton sums up Day 1 of the NFL Draft.

Audio: Click to listen

Quincy Black profile

ABOUT QUINCY BLACK

Position: Linebacker

Height: 6-foot-2

Weight: 240 pounds

College: New Mexico

Highlights/Stats: Led the Lobos in tackles his senior season with 114, 57 solo, and registered three interceptions. Considered an excellent pass defender with good closing speed. Is better suited for outside where he can take advantage of his running ability and avoid heavy contact.

The Verdict: Fills a need for depth at linebacker after the release of Shelton Quarles, but considering this draft is not loaded with LB talent, might have been available to the Bucs on the second day of the draft. Gives the Bucs three defensive players in their four first-day picks.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Sabby Piscitelli profile

ABOUT SABBY PISCITELLI

Position: Safety

Height: 6-foot-3

Weight: 224 pounds

College: Oregon State

Highlights/Stats: Considered to have excellent closing speed in pass coverage, but also tough enough inside the box to be an effective run stopper. Started 36 games at strong safety for the Beavers, recording 178 tackles and 15 interceptions (second best in OSU history). Piscitelli is a graduate of Boca Raton High School, where he played safety and wide receiver in his final two years.

The Verdict: Piscitelli provides depth and possible competition for safeties Jermaine Phillips and Will Allen. At his size, might get a look at strong or free safety. Secondary was a major concern last year. He said he's always been a fan of a previous Bucs safety. "John Lynch is one of my all-time favorite safeties," Piscitelli said. "I always watched him play. The Tampa Two is always something I love to play."

(Photo: Getty Images. Click to enlarge.)

Bucs take safety, linebacker

The Bucs continued to rebuild their defense, using their third pick and second of the second round (64th overal) to take Sabby Piscitelli, a 6-foot-3, 224-pound strong safety from Oregon State. Four picks later, they selected Quincy Black, a 6-2, 240-pound linebacker out of New Mexico.

Sears will play guard

The Bucs and pretty much everyone else in the league project Arron Sears to play guard in the NFL, based on what clubs have told the player.

Sears said he fully expects to play guard with the possibility of some action at right tackle, if necessary. That clarifies a bit the initial ambiguity about the Bucs' plans for Tennessee product.

Sears played mostly tackle for the Vols but his body type is better suited to be a guard in the NFL, most scouts feel. At 6-3 and 328 pounds, Sears should help the Bucs' interior line play which should, in turn, boost the running game.

"I'm pretty certain that offensive guard is what everyone has been looking at me to play," Sears said, "to come in and help the football team be able to to run the football."

Sears deflected talk that his weight has been a past issue. The topic came up during the pre-draft process, but Sears said he has control of it.

"It's definitely not a struggle," Sears said. "I can get to any weight that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers want me to get to. It's never been a problem in my career. I got up to, I think, 335 in my sophomore year after the surgery I had. But it's definitely not a problem."

Shelton sounds off on Sears

Gary Shelton chats about Tennessee guard Arron Sears, the Bucs' second-round pick. Agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment below.

 

Click to listen

Arron Sears profile

ABOUT ARRON SEARS

Position:  Guard

Height: 6-foot-3

Weight: 319 pounds

College: Tennessee

Highlights/Stats: Considered the foundation of the Volunteers offensive line, Sears played every position except center for Tennessee during his career (26 starts at left tackle, 6 at right tackle, 4 at right guard and 1 at left guard). As the starting left tackle last season, Sears won the Jacobs Award, given to the best blocker in the Southeastern Conference. He has exhibited great durability, missing only two games due to injury since his freshman year.

The Verdict: Sears continues the team's youth movement on the offensive line, joining 2006 high picks Davin Joseph and Jeremy Trueblood. He likely will compete for the starting left guard position this season (especially if Dan Buenning moves to center) and could play left tackle in an emergency if Luke Petitgout gets injured.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Sears in the second

The Bucs went for offensive lineman Arron Sears of Tennessee with their first pick in the second round, giving them a player who can play multiple positions along the offensive line.

Sears has played every position besides center for the Vols, and he earned the Jacobs Award, given to the best blocker in the Southeastern Conference. Last season, he started all 13 games at left tackle. But prior to that, Sears

Clearly, the Bucs are showing a commitment today to bulking up in front -- on both sides of the ball. Sears gives the Bucs some versatility along the line in case of injury, plus he adds to the depth on the line that already was improved during free agency.

The Bucs have signed tackle Luke Petitgout and guard Matt Lehr, which should spice up the competition in training camp. Now, with Sears, maybe the Bucs don't lose as much sleep over Dan Buenning's season-ending knee injury from which he is not yet fully recovered nor do they wonder who will fill the need of being their swing tackle -- the guy who can add depth or fill in if necessary at both left and right tackle.

Good talent available at No. 35

The first of the Bucs' two second-round picks will be approaching shortly, and there's some quality talent that could fall to Tampa Bay.

As of now, Michigan defensive tackle Alan Branch, predicted by almost everyone to be picked in the first half of the first round, is still on the board. Also, a player the Bucs have expressed interest in, USC center Ryan Kalil, is there.

Also available: USC receiver Dwayne Jarrett and Arkansas cornerback Chris Houston. The second-round pick might be just as intriguing as many of the first-round picks chosen today.

(Pictured: Alan Branch. AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Florida well represented

Players from Florida colleges have been well represented so far in the draft.

So far, six players from the state have been chosen in the first round. Florida State linebacker Lawrence Timmons was the first off the board, chosen at 15th overall by the Steelers.

He was followed by Florida defensive end Jarvis Moss to the Broncos at No. 17, Florida safety Reggie Nelson to the Jaguars at No. 21, Miami safety Brandon Meriweather to the Patriots at No. 24, Miami linebacker Jon Beason to the Panthers at No. 25 and Miami tight end Greg Olsen to the Bears at No. 31.

Of course, this is not even close to being one of the better drafts for Florida colleges. In past years, there have been as many as six first-round picks from a single school, as Miami had in 2004.

(Pictured: Lawrence Timmons. Times photo - Scott Keeler. Click to enlarge.)

Meriweather overcomes character issue

Former Miami safety Brandon Meriweather was the subject of much talk entering the draft, with speculation saying he could slide to the second round because of character concerns.

Well, that didn't happen. Meriweather went to the Patriots at No. 24 overall, despite playing a central role in the UM-Florida International brawl last season and being at the center of an earlier off-campus shooting incident that also involved a teammate.

Apparently, if you can play, character concerns come second for some teams, even despite the NFL's renewed focus on conduct. But give Meriweather credit: he apparently handled the questions with maturity, rather than deflecting them. Also, it helped that the shooting was not determined to be a criminal action.

Earlier this year, at the Senior Bowl, Meriweather told the Times: "I think everybody came here thinking that I'm a great athlete but a bad character guy because of the fight and the gun incident. I wanted to come in and show them that there's nothing about hype here. I'm serious about this."

(Times photo - Stefanie Boyar. Click to enlarge.)

Jon Gruden, Gaines Adams address the media

Read Bucs coach Jon Gruden's comments about the first round of the draft:

http://www.sptimes.com/2007/04/28/Bucs/Gruden_on_the_draft.shtml

Read Gaines Adams' reaction to being taken by the Bucs:

http://www.sptimes.com/2007/04/28/Bucs/Adams_speaks_about_th.shtml

(Gruden: Times photo - James Borchuck. Adams: Getty Images. Click to enlarge.)

Adams: I'm the best

The importance of rushing the quarterback is always made crystal clear around these parts. So, when the Bucs failed to do that consistently last season,it was clear one of their primary needs in this draft was a pass rusher.

To hear Gaines Adams tell it, Tampa Bay got the best rusher available.

"I feel that way," Adams said. "That was one of my goals coming into this draft and I feel like my college career shows that. Now I'm just trying to take it to the next level."

Still, Adams was humbled by being the first defensive player drafted.

"It's a tremendous honor," he said. "There's a lot of great defensive players that are out in this draft and it's just an honor to me to be one of the first ones chosen."

As for his supposed weaknesses -- playing the run and not playing hard on every play -- Adams isn't buying in.

"Oh, no," he said. "I see myself as a four-down guy. I can go in and play. I can stop the run and I can sack the quarterback."

(Photo: Getty Images. Click to enlarge.)

The Monte Show

If the reaction of Bucs defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin is any indication, Gaines Adams is going to be absolutely spectacular.

You should have seen Kiffin in action during a just-completed press conference here at One Buc Place. He was in rare form as he touted the ability of the former Clemson defensive end.

Among Kiffin's gems was this as he walked to the podium: "Let's hear it for the defense! It's been a long time coming."

Of the possibility of the Bucs choosing another quarterback, Kiffin responded, "We don't need another quarterback. Can he rush (the passer)? It's called pressure. Pressure!"

Kiffin admitted he and sidekick Larry Coyer, the defensive line coach, did a fair amount of politicking in the Bucs' draft room just upstairs. Kiffin wasn't about to let this year go by without pleading his case for a defender in the first round.

Coyer compared Adams with Trevor Pryce, who Coyer coached during his time as the Broncos' defensive coordinator.

"It's uncanny how they look alike (on film)," Coyer said.

(Times photo - Bill Serne. Click to enlarge.)

Gaines Adams at a glance

GAINES ADAMS

Position: Defensive end

Height: 6-foot-4

Weight: 258 pounds

College: Clemson

Hightlights/stats: Only the second player in Clemson football history to be named first team All America. Had 28 career sacks and was the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year. Had a career-high 12.5 sacks last season and forced two fumbles. He also recovered three fumbles, returning one for a touchdown. Had a streak of eight consecutive games with at least one sack.

The Verdict: Adams was the highest-ranked defensive player on the board and addresses a need for the Bucs, who have a projected six starters on defense over the age of 30. He will compete with Simeon Rice, who is coming off season-ending shoulder surgery and entering the final year of his contract. The Bucs were tied for 30th in the NFL with just 25 sacks and needed to improve their pass rush. The other player under consideration was Louisville's Amobi Okoye. But there's always a premium of players who can rush the quarterback. Bucs coach Jon Gruden said he was concerned about Adams admitting he used marijuana, but the Tigers' star said he was just being honest. Gruden said Adams is expected to compete with Rice at right defensive end. "He's a great a player and I'm a great player,'' Adams said of Rice. "We'll just have to compete.''

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Ouch!

Did you see Brady Quinn's face? Even he can't believe the Dolphins just passed on him at No. 9.

The Dolphins seemed to be a lock to pick Quinn, the former Notre Dame quarterback who is falling faster than tech stocks. Now, who knows whether any of the teams picking in the next several spots will take him?

You certainly wouldn't expect Houston to take him after recently acquiring Matt Schaub from Atlanta. After that is San Francisco, where Alex Smith is entrenched.
Maybe Buffalo at No. 12? If not, it might get uglier still. The next several teams beyond the Bills seem like unlikely destinations (St. Louis, Carolina, Pittsburgh, Green Bay, Jacksonville, Cincinnati, Tennessee, New York Giants, Denver).

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Gary Shelton live from One Buc Place

Find out what Times columnist Gary Shelton thought about the Bucs ' first round pick. Agree? Disagree? Drop us a comment  below.

Audio report: Click to listen

There you have it

Here's the latest from Jon Gruden's own mouth: The Bucs are likely to keep Gaines Adams.

"Unless something drastically changes," Gruden said, "we expect him to be a Buccaneer for a long time."

The Bucs were intrigued by several other possibilities, including Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson, but Gruden said the Bucs resisted the temptation.

"I'm a football coach," Gruden said. "I want to win games. We have to take a look at who we think is the best football player on the board. . .  We said we wanted to upgrade our pass rush."

Adams will play right defensive end, according to Gruden, meaning he'll play the same side as former Pro Bowler Simeon  Rice. That should make for some interesting conversation as things proceed, but Gruden made it clear the plan is to play the best player.

Gruden denied that the Bucs were engaged in any serious trade conversations, whether with the Lions or other clubs.

"I was really surprised people were speculating that we would be willing to sacrifice a lot of picks to move up," Gruden said. "We need to address some needs on this football team."

Gruden admitted the Bucs would have strongly considered Johnson had he been available at No. 4. Gruden also said the Bucs had a liking for Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye, who apparently was the team's next option.

"We liked Amobi Okoye," Gruden said. "To get a disruptive inside presence is something you're always looking for. It was a tough call."

(Times photo - Bill Serne. Click to enlarge.)

Finally

It's been eight years, but finally the Bucs have gone with a defensive player in the first round.

Former Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams becomes the first defensive player chosen in the first round by Tampa Bay since Booger McFarland in 1999.

But here's the catch: he might not stay. We'll see if anything comes of the talks between Detroit and others regarding Calvin Johnson. The Bucs covet him and the Lions have had their eyes on Adams for some time. But that doesn't guarantee anything.

Stay tuned.

[Photo: Getty Images]

What's that sound?

We think that might be the sound of Brady Quinn faaalllling.

With the Browns picking tackle Joe Thomas at No. 3, Quinn might be on the board for a while.

If the Bucs don't pick him next at No. 4, he might free-fall past Arizona, Washington, Minnesota and Atlanta, all of which have stable quarterback situations. His best bet might be Miami at No. 9.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

Let the suspense begin

So, Calvin Johnson looks pretty good in a Lions hat, huh?

But here's the question: will he be wearing a different one soon? The Lions are still entertaining offers for Johnson, and much of the communication is with Tampa Bay. But the Bucs aren't thrilled about the asking price: said to be BOTH of the Bucs' second-round picks as well as their No. 4 overall pick.

We've heard from insiders in the past 24 hours who believe the Bucs will resist this trade unless the price comes down. The standoff should be interesting to watch.

(AP photo. Click to enlarge.)

How did they do?

We invited you to play the role of Bucs head coach Jon Gruden, or general manager Bruce Allen and tell us what you would do with with the No. 4 overall pick in the draft, and you responded in mass. Some of you wanted to trade up for Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson, others to stay at No. 4 and take Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas. Still others wanted to trade the coach and general manager. Now that they've selected Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams with their first pick, what do you think?

(Pictured: Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen. Times photo - Bill Serne. Click to enlarge.)

Let the trade talks begin

   So much for intrigue.

    The worst kept secret in the NFL draft is coming true as the Oakland Raiders are set to select LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell with the first overall pick.

   That means that the Detroit Lions hold the leverage and the right to take Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson, arguably one of the best pro prospects in years.

   Bucs general manager Bruce Allen has had serious discussions with Lions general manager Matt Millen about trading up to the No. 2 choice to take Johnson. It's more likely, however, that the Lions will select Johnson with willingness to keep him while listening to offers.

   The Cleveland Browns, who pick third overall, are expected to select between Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas, Notre Dame quartertback Brady Quinn and Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson. Right now, it looks like it might be Thomas.

   That could leave the Bucs having to choose between Thomas, Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams and Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye.

   According to the draft value chart, the Bucs would have to send both their second-round picks to Detroit to move up to spots. But they could get there with a combination of picks and players. Among those veterans who could be part of a deal includes digruntled defensive back Brian Kelly and defensive end Simeon Rice.

   The Bucs most likely will look to upgrade their defense, which has six projected starters over the age of 30. One scenario would have the Bucs picking Adams and then simply swapping players with the Lions.

   Still a few minutes before the draft kicks off and the Bucs are going to be in the thick of it early.   

       

Sifting through the rumors

   Gentleman, start your NFL draft speculation.

   As we inch closer to Saturday, the reports are flying. Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson re-injured his collarbone in the Sooners' bowl game. Most teams don't believe it will require additional surgery and have been aware of it since the NFL Scouting combine.

   That said, the Cleveland Browns at No. 3 might want to give more consideration to taking a quarterback, most likely Notre Dame's Brady Quinn.

   But the Browns might be wary that the Detroit Lions could wind up with Quinn, which makes them nervous.

   On Wednesday, Lions general manager Matt MIllen confirmed they would definitely consider trading out of the No. 2 spot, particularly if the Raiders take LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell with the No. 1 overall pick. The Lions like Clemson defensive tackle Gaines Adams, but they'd prefer not to take him at No. 2.

   Trading down two spots with the Bucs would seem to be their best option since Tampa Bay owns two second-round picks. Or the Lions could take Johnson at No. 2 and try to deal him later.

   This much is certain: Bucs general manager Bruce Allen says knows what the Raiders are going to do at No. 1.

   The consensus is Russell, the only quarterback that might be a cause for pause if he were still there at No. 4 for the Bucs.

    If a deal can't be struck for Johnson, or if he doesn't just drop to the Bucs at No. 4, Tampa Bay almost surely will have a good player fall to them like Wisconsin's Joe Thomas or Adams.

   The Raiders are on the clock. They're negotiating with Russell, Johnson and Quinn. Maybe this thing will kick off a little early.

   

Quarles: I think I can play through anything

   A few days before the 2003 season opener, Shelton Quarles broke his forearm during a special teams drill.

   Quarles said the Bucs considered putting him on injured reserve, but they wanted to see if he could play following surgery to put the bones back in place.

   ""I broke my forearm and they were trying to make a decision as to whether or not I could compete or stay out and miss the whole year,'' Quarles said Wednesday during an interview on 620-WDAE. ""But I got through it with plates in there and put a cast on it and I was back on the football field within five games of me breaking my arm with a compound fracture, a dislocated wrist and a dislocated elbow. But I'm a competitor, so sometimes I think I can play through anything. And with the injuries I've had, I've always played through it. I've played with broken hands, broken arms...that's football. That's what you do.''

   Unfortunately, the Bucs will no longer allow Quarles to play hurt.

   On Tuesday, general manager Bruce Allen terminated Quarles contract for failing a physical. The Bucs owed him a roster bonus of more than $1-million May 1.

   Quarles, 35, acknowledged that he took an exit physical at the end of the 2006 season but said he had never been given the results.

   While admitting he has an undisclosed injury, believed to be a recurring knee problem, Quarles said it is no worse than it was the past three seasons.

   ""In my opinion, it wasn't,''' Quarles said. ""I had other things I was dealing with last year as far as the thing that kept me out of the first game of the year and also a high ankle sprain. But a high ankle sprain I suffered during the year was not a product of the injury I've been dealing with the last three years, it's just something that happened on a particular play. The high ankle sprain is something to overcome. We had other guys on the team that had high ankle sprains and they dealt with it and they missed portions of games because of it. That's the way football is.''

   Saying he was a company man, Quarles refused to criticize the Bucs franchise that he played for during 10 seasons. But at several points during the interview, he declined comment.

   Did you want to compete for your job? "No comment,'' Quarles said.

   Was it your decision? "No comment,'' Quarles said.

    Did they ask you to retire? "No comment,'' he said.

    Did the doctors say you couldn't play? "No comment,'' he said.

    ""The thing with me is I'm a company kind of guy. I respect the guys that allowed me to play the game of football for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and I won't do anything to hurt them,'' Quarles said. ""That's not my personality, regardless of the way I feel or what I'm going through at this particular time with both myself and my family, we'll figure a way to get through it and I'm confident in that.''

   Quarles said he would like to continue his career and has sought the advice of former Bucs tackle Anthony McFarland, who was traded to Indianapolis last Oct. and won a Super Bowl with the Colts. But he indicated it would take a heck of an offer to entice him to leave his family in Tampa for six months.

    Then Quarles read a statement.

   ""During the past four years, I've put a quality product on the field,'' Quarles said. ""I know what I'm capable of. I know my body. I know I can still compete at the professional level. I will offer respect to this organization and I will always be a Buccaneer, regardless of what happens. I will always be appreciative of the Glazers for giving a young man from Nashville, Tenn.,..a chance and I believe I have represented them well on and off the football field. Tomorrow will take care of itself, be it as a player or as a professional. I will approach it with the same tenacity I did when I entered the league. For that, I'm excited and I want to say, "Go Bucs' to the very end.''

What would you do?

The Bucs clearly need help after last season's disappointing 4-12 finish, their third losing season in the past four. And in your heart you know you're just the person to provide it. Here's your chance. Tampa Bay owns the fourth overall pick in this weekend's draft, behind the Raiders, Lions and Browns. You're playing the role of general manager Bruce Allen or coach Jon Gruden. Do you:

1. Trade up for Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson (left)? 

2. Select Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas (right)?

3. Take quarterback JaMarcus Russell of LSU or Brady Quinn of Notre Dame?

4. Select Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson (left)?

5. Draft a defensive lineman such as Clemson's Gaines Adams or Louisville's Amobi Okoye?

6. Trade your picks to the Bears for linebacker Lance Briggs (right)?

7. Do something else?

You're on the clock. What move do you make, and why? We'll run a selection of responses on page 2C of Saturday's Times, so please leave your full name and hometown along with your comments.

And be careful. We remember all too well draft day busts such as Keith McCants, Charles McRae and Bo Jackson, the top overall pick in 1986 who never played a down for the Bucs.

(AP photos. Click to enlarge.)

Quarles to be cut

The Bucs are preparing to cut ties with longtime middle linebacker Shelton Quarles.

General manager Bruce Allen said today the team will release the 10-year veteran, officially for a failed physical. But, Allen added, the decision involved multiple factors, likely including Quarles' age (35). Allen would not discuss the factors other than Quarles' health.

Quarles has been in talks with the team for weeks but was told explicitly in a recent meeting with Allen that the team had made its decision.

It does not appear to be a mutual parting of ways. Quarles has maintained for weeks that he wishes to and believes he is capable of playing this season. He also added recently that the decision would not be made by him.

The move means third-year player Barrett Ruud shoots to the top of the depth chart.

Quarles was not immediately available for comment, but he will be remembered as one of the most tenaicious players in team history. He ranks third in franchise history in tackles with 985, including five consecutive seasons with more than 100.

Physically, Quarles has battled numerous injuries in the past couple years, though they rarely prevented him from playing. He has been hampered by a hip injury and has even admitted to a number of past concussions, but it is believed that a longtime knee condition is the team's primary concern.

Staying put not so bad

Are we the only ones who are beginning to think the Bucs aren't going anywhere and just might stay at No. 4?

With each day comes another rumor that another team is making a play to move up. Today's latest rumor has the Broncos making a push to swap picks with Detroit at No. 2 overall.

As for the Bucs, there is little evidence that points to a deal getting done to move them up in the draft. The price to acquire Oakland's No. 1 pick looks to be exhorbitant and probably not worth it. And moving up to No. 2 doesn't guarantee Tampa Bay a shot at Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson, unless the deal is made on draft day after the Raiders pick and Johnson is still available.

But how about this: stay at No. 4 and take your pick of the players who fall to you. We're talking, potentially, the likes of Joe Thomas, Adrian Peterson, Gaines Adams, Brady Quinn, and maybe (it's a loooong shot, but still) Johnson. And staying put allows the Bucs to retain their two second-round picks which could net them some nice pickups, too.

Tampa Bay has all sorts of needs that can't be ignored. Giving up picks that will allow an aging defense to grow younger and a unimposing offense to add some firepower doesn't exactly sound like the smartest move when you really think about.

So, knowing this, don't go into Saturday expecting a big deal. Not saying one won't be made, but from where we sit, this is far from a slam dunk.

Now, assuming Tampa Bay stays at No. 4, and JaMarcus Russell and Calvin Johnson are off the board, who would you pick? Quinn, Peterson, Adams, Thomas or someone else? Tough choice but certainly not a bad problem to have.

Tell us what you think.

And don't forget to check out Tuesday's paper when we'll tackle the notion of the two-running back system and whether the Bucs might be tempted to take a shot at Peterson.

Johnson could go No. 1

Because we're sure you haven't heard enough about Calvin Johnson lately, we're here to chat about him some more.

In reality, you're probably getting sick of hearing about the Georgia Tech receiver who is all the rage as next weekend's draft approaches. But there's some interesting speculation making the rounds that the Raiders, owners of the No. 1 overall pick, are negotiating with LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell and Johnson. The Raiders have long been thought to be leaning toward picking Russell, so that isn't a surprise. But there are many around the league who could easily picture the Raiders opting for Johnson, particularly if they determine signing him won't be as tricky (or pricy) as Russell. The team with the top pick is permitted to negotiate with players before the draft, which the Raiders are wise to do. You might remember the Texans reaching a deal with top pick Mario Williams on the eve of the draft last year, bypassing the dynamic Reggie Bush in the process.

So, what does all this mean for the Bucs, who pick fourth? Well, for one, if true, this reduces the chances of a move by Tampa Bay to the No. 2 spot. If the player they truly want -- Johnson -- might not be there at No. 2, there's no sense in making the deal hoping he'll be there. Also, if Johnson goes No. 1, don't expect any movement by the Bucs. They'll likely be content to stay put and get the best of the players who fall to them, possibly Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas or maybe even the player they deem the best defensive prospect, perhaps Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams. If anything, they could move down.

Of course, things are so fluid right now that we're not making promises on any of this stuff, but these are some scenarios to keep in mind as we weed through the unpredictability of the next week.

In the meantime, for those of you who think you can bear more of Johnson, there will be a nice spread on him in Sunday's paper to kick off our week of extensive draft coverage. We'll also revisit some of the topics we've covered here in the past few days.

Trading up for Johnson will be difficult

   There's a lot of chatter about the Bucs' attempt to move up in the draft for Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson.

   First and foremost, unless the Bucs acquire the No. 1 overall pick from the Raiders, no deal involving Tampa Bay is likely to happen until they know Johnson is on the board.

   Most speculation centers around the Bucs' packaging picks and/or players to swap first-rounders with the Detroit Lions and move from No. 4 to No. 2 overall with Johnson in their crosshairs.

   It sounds good except for this: Who said the Lions don't want Johnson?

   Sure, Detriot general manager Matt Millen has an ugly  history of taking receivers with the first-round pick and watching them become busts like Charles Rogers and Mike Williams, to name two.

   But neither of those players were ever in the same league as Johnson.

   At 6-foot-5, 238-pounds, Johnson runs a 4.35 40-yard dash, has flypaper hands and is said to be a better person than he is a player. He reportedly blew away the Lions during a recent visit to Detroit.

   Sure, Lions coach Rod Marinelli would like to build his team through defense. But he realizes that Johnson is the best player in the draft. If Johnson helps the Lions convert enough third downs, he helps the defense by keeping it off the field.

   And no current member of the Lions coaching staff was part of the Rogers or Williams debacle, so they feel no attachment there.   

   In other words, it would take a heck of an offer for Tampa Bay to move up. The rumor de jour, courtesy of 620-WDAE, has the Bucs trading defensive end Simeon Rice to Detroit and their No. 4 overall pick for the Lions No. 2 overall pick.

   Rice, 33, will no doubt be shopped by the Bucs because he has just one year left on his contract and is coming off shoulder surgery that limited to eight games and two sacks last season.

   The Lions spent big money to sign Bucs free agent defensive end Dewayne White and they're in position to draft another to-flight defensive lineman if necessary. In addition, they would likely have to sign Rice to a lucrative long-term deal before he would accept a trade.

   Earlier this week, there was a report on AOL.com saying the Bucs talked to Raiders owner Al Davis about trading nearly every first day draft pick to Oakland in exchange for the No. 1 overall selection. That sounds even more farfetched, given the Bucs' glaring holes on both sides of the ball. And coach Jon Gruden has spent five years bemoaning loss of draft picks the Bucs sent to Oakland when he was acquired in a trade from the Raiders.

   The NFL draft is liar's poker. Every scenario is discussed, especially near the top of the draft. But trades are very rare.

   One more thing. Say the Bucs did swap picks with the Lions before the draft and the Raiders took Johnson No. 1 overall. What did Tampa Bay move up for? They could get Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas or Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams at No. 4.

   But what keeps getting overlooked is that with so many teams interested in Johnson, why would anyone assume the Lions are not one of them?   

      

    

   

Va. Tech tragedy hits Davis hard

Offensive lineman Anthony Davis spent some of the best years of his life in Blacksburg, Va. That's where he lived while enrolled at Virginia Tech, where he played for the Hokies from 1999 to 2002.

So Monday's events, now being called the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history, understandably hit close to home for Davis.

Fortunately, he said, none of the handful of friends he has at Tech were directly affected by the tragedy in which 33 were killed, but it was nonetheless shocking to see a place so familiar under siege.

"Watching it gave me chills," Davis said. "I'm at home watching TV and they're showing a map of the campus. I could see all the places where I used to