Aqib Talib negotiations hit a snag

First-round pick Aqib Talib's contract negotiations, previously thought to be nearing an end, now might take longer than expected.

We've learned Talib's agent, Todd France, and Bucs management have had little to no dialogue in the past two days, leaving the rookie cornerback in danger of missing Friday's reporting deadline in Celebration. The team's first practice is scheduled for Saturday morning at Disney's Wide World of Sports.

The sides had been having regular talks up until recent days, and signs pointed to the possibility a deal could be struck with time to spare. But one thing that likely remains a sticking point in the Talib negotiations and those of other players is the lack of signings by rookies drafted in the same area of the draft. The contracts of players selected in the same range of the draft typically are used by agents as a baseline in negotiations.

With only a handful of late first-round picks signed (Talib was the 20th overall pick), there is little for Talib's representatives to use as a points of reference.

Talib is one of three rookies who have yet to agree to terms. He is joined by second-round pick Dexter Jackson and fifth-rounder Josh Johnson. Third-round pick Jeremy Zuttah signed his contract earlier today, the Bucs announced. The Bucs have not had a rookie contract holdout under general manager Bruce Allen, who joined the team in 2004.

[Brian Cassella, Times files]

Comments

[Kurt]

He'll be there; sooner or later. It's not like he's going to start anyway. Remember, T Jax and 1 other (can't remember who) are the only 2 players to start opening day their rookie season on Kiffin's defense. They may just be waiting to make a splash like they always do; it's dramatic stuff.

[shane]

OKAY EVERYBODY JUST CALM DOWN!!!!! Talib'll get signed if it takes BA all night to do it we still have all day tomorrow and the rest of tonight to get these 3 guys signed

Add a little "some-in", "some-in" and he'll sign...(snicker)

[Brandon]

The first problem is the agent. Todd France, he's the dummy that guaranteed Brian Westbrook that he could get him a 3 year $30 Mill deal with the Eagles (not for an injury-prone 29 year old RB).

Secondly, is this the same Todd RFance whom we cut a few seasons ago in training camp? Matt Bryant beat him out in training camp.

[DR]

Brandon, the problem more than likely has to do with the CBA coming up or the lack of a future CBA. If, and its a big IF, the CBA is allowed to expire and the NFL goes into a no salary cap season, there are a lot of rules for the salaries the owners have to follow and its difficult to work around as far as structuring a bonus and salary. Right now, they have to assume that there will be no salary cap in 2010.

[Evan]

If Aqib wants to get a contract from the Bucs, he needs to sexually assault a drugged virgin first.

[Larry]

France is an agent who has been around for a while. France the kicker is still kicking - I believe for Orlando in Arena football.

[James]

Evan, why don't you do everyone here a favor and jump off the Skyway.

For every Jeremy Stephans there's a Derrick Brooks, Barber or Alstott.

The difference between your comment and a bucket of crap is the bucket.

[Evan]

James,

Anyone who can cheer for a waste of space like "Stevens" belongs in that bucket of yours.

I feel sorry for the stand-up guys like the ones you mentioned that have to play with that POS. I've been backing the Bucs for 30 years...but I have to look my family in the eyes and at myself in the mirror.

You should try it.

[Kurt]

What's the matter Evan? Are you ugly? Why would you feel responsible for the actions of others just because you like to watch football and have a favorite team. Trust me, your wife and kids don't disrespect you because of your football affiliations.

[Evan]

Kurt,

It's also about respect for myself, and I truly am at a loss about all of this.

Why is it acceptable that the management thinks it's perfectly fine to sign people like this?

Why is it ok with you, and so many others to have this guy on the team?

Seriously, are you really ok with cheering for this guy

Aren't we giving up a bit of our dignity to do so?

As I said before, I am at a loss.

Would you please clarify?

[stupid]

you guys suck

[Mike]

Evan...J Stephens didn't serve ANY time and was not found guilty. Period. You don't know what happened cause you nor the seattle times were there and no matter how much you speculate, you still dont know. Ask the Duke lacrosse team how reputable people can be. You and your comments are naive.

[Mike]

oh and before you say that she got paid in a civil court, understand that stevens didn't pay her, the fraternity did.

[Evan]

Delusional rationalization.

[DR]

Evan, I agree with you. I mean, its one thing to put your dignity on the line for a talented player, but the Bucs are doing that for a scrub. Give me a break.
Mike, look at what you said, he was found not guilty which is not true. He was never tried. He wasn't found to be innocent. It was found that there wasn't enough evidence to try him by a U of W alumni. He wasn't found not guilty by a jury. Being found not guilty doesn't mean you didn't do it. Anybody who believes OJ didn't do it should drive to the bridge and jump.

[Joe]

Ever had a drink or two at a restaurant or bar and the driven home? You were probably guilty of a DUI you just were not pulled over and ticketed. Let's not be so quick to judge others when we don't know all the facts. Last time I checked the law you are presumed innocent until found guilty by a jury of your peers so no trial, dropped for lack of evidence etc means innocent.