Eugene Wilson released, OT added

UPDATE, 6:17 p.m.: The release of Eugene Wilson apparently was to make room for a more pressing need: an offensive lineman. The Bucs claimed offensive lineman James Lee off waivers, adding the rookie free agent from South Carolina State to augment a thin offensive line. Lee, who was waived Saturday by the Browns, is said to be capable of playing guard but is being viewed as a tackle by the Bucs.

At this time, it appears free agent tackle Fred Miller, who was offered a contract by the Bucs last week, is having second thoughts about playing this season and doesn't appear likely to land in Tampa.

Also, the Bucs have signed running back Clifton Smith to their practice squad. There will be more practice squad signings to come over the next day or so.

5:26 p.m.: The Bucs have released cornerback Eugene Wilson.

Wilson was one of nine defensive backs who remained on the final roster Saturday, but the Bucs likely need a roster spot to address another unit -- perhaps the offensive line. Wilson was a member of this year's free agent class, joining the Bucs after parting ways with the Patriots.

The signing was celebrated as a savvy move that gave the Bucs a versatile player who can play cornerback and safety. But Wilson's shortcomings became obvious in the preseason, particularly in terms of missed tackles.

In an unrelated story, the Patriots have released former Bucs safety John Lynch, who joined New England after recently gaining his release from Denver.

Stay tuned for more details as there could be more news to come on this busy weekend in the NFL.

Comments

[DV]

Lynch should come to Tampa, sign a 1 day contract, and retire a Buc.

[Vince]

Stephen, isn't it a little unusual for the Bucs to fill O-line depth with a rookie, undrafted free agent? Especially one that is a guard transitioning to tackle. Weren't there any veterans available?

I know that being cut from the Browns is no big deal because the Browns are stacked at O-Line. I also know this guy did really well in college. Why wasn't he drafted?

[jon]

They should sign Sapp And Lynch with 1 day contracts and make a huge p/r event and have them retire together...that would be cool

[Ben]

Why no willie anderson that dudes been to 7 pro bowls

[DR]

Cincy cut Anderson because of money and the Bucs have money. Anderson would be an upgrade.
Joey harrington is out there. I heard Gruden is looking for a QB to hold the clipboard for Griese so he doesn't strain himself.

[Russell]

So we try an fill our depth at tackle and last roster spot with some undrafted rookie? Come on.....

[shane]

i agree ben. why couldn't we go and get a Pro Bowl proven vet instead of an inexperienced rookie who has never even played at the tackle position.

[kevinmills]

lee played tackle his senior year. So he has played tackle. I'm assuming their scouts watched tape on all the guys available. Penn started out as undeadted FA. He was a find.

'undrafted'

....this is what happens when you post from your phone.

[Vince]

Lynch is not retiring. The Pats will pick him right back up. Only cut for salary reasons.

[Gru Jonden]

Lynch just announced his retirement, and upcoming stint on dancing with the stars.

http://abc.go.com/primetime/dancingwiththestars/index?pn=index

[DR's Rectum]

SPhlllltttt! I know what I am talking about! Here Donkey, Here Donkey!

[Michael]

The report on ESPN.com about Willie Anderson being realised by the Bengals was he is old, and isnt the same player that went to 7 probowls. Remember Derrick Deese? Todd Stussie? Kerry Jenkins? Thats why the Bucs are staying away from Anderson. Who knows, he still might be better then the guy they signed, but the Bengals need all the help they can get, and if they dont need him, I dont think we do.

[DR's Rectum]

Willie Anderson, Willie Anderson! SPhlllltttt! I know what I am talking about! Here Donkey, Here Donkey!

[Michael is making too much sense]

Hey Michael, stop being intelligent... this blog is for uneducated fair weather fans only. Didn't you get the memo?