Post-draft thoughts

A couple of random post-draft thoughts we wanted to share.

The organization keeps downplaying the effort made by the Bucs to move up in the draft to position themselves to take receiver Calvin Johnson.

None of us were in the draft room Saturday morning, so maybe we'll never know. But based on what we hear, the Bucs did make a play to move up. One proposal, as told to us, had the Bucs offering cornerback Juran Bolden (who was released Monday) and defensive tackle Ellis Wyms to Detroit in a package that is believed to have included draft picks.

Bucs coach Jon Gruden and Detroit president Matt Millen both say there was no such talk, but our sources, and multiple other reports, indicate otherwise. We also hear the Glazer family was not agreeable to giving up early draft picks in any potential deal, so Gruden's and general manager Bruce Allen's hands appeared to have been tied to an extent.

On another topic, one of the observations we made during the draft was the Bucs' decision not to draft a player with experience as a conventional middle linebacker. Third-round pick Quincy Black did play a position similar to MLB, but New Mexico's scheme is quite unorthodox and nothing like the Bucs'.

Why is this an issue? Because with the departure of Shelton Quarles, who was released last week, the Bucs are thin at the position. Sure, third-year up-and-comer Barrett Ruud will be installed as the starter, something Gruden confirmed over the weekend. But if he gets hurt, and what about having depth?

Gruden said the team's thinking is that some in the bevy of linebackers the team now has are versatile enough to play in the middle if necessary.

"Hopefully we can have a football team that has that versatility," he said. "Not a lot of guys draft a guy just to be a run stopper, middle linebacker. That's not how we do business here. We think Quincy Black, (sixth-round Adam) Hayward, Ryan Nece, a lot of guys here can be a Mike linebacker. Shelton Quarles had never played the position and he did quite well."

So, apparently one of the things we'll have to watch in the coming weeks when offseason workouts start again is which players are taking snaps in the middle.

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.   

       

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.)

Davin's Deal is Done

It's official:

Davin Joseph is ready to begin his Bucs career as the team's first-round pick just inked a five-year, $10-million deal, according to his agent, Ben Dogra.

That means Joseph will be ready to go tomorrow when the Bucs hit the field for their first practice. Players were to report to Celebration today by 4 p.m., but Joseph was a no-show. With the business now out of the way, expect Joseph to arrive in time for tonight's series of meetings in preparation for the big day tomorrow.

No.1 pick on verge of a deal

Davin Joseph, right, may make it to camp on time after all.

His agent, Ben Dogra, just informed Bucs Beat that a deal is on the verge of being consummated, and that a couple minor issues that need to be worked out.

If all goes well, Joseph should be on board today.

-- Stephen Holder

Trueblood to sign today

Second-round draft pick Jeremy Trueblood, right, agreed to terms on a contract with the Bucs Wednesday night and will sign a contract today in time to report to training camp this afternoon, according to agent Tom Condon.

Trueblood will sign a four-year deal later today, though the financial details were not immediately available.

Truebloood's signing will the seventh rookie deal for the Bucs, who drafted 10 players in April. The remaining unsigned players as of this morning are first-round pick Davin Joseph, third-round pick Maurice Stovall and sixth-round pick T.J. Williams.

Joseph's agent said this morning the two sides are still working toward a deal and have made some progress. The first practice is scheduled for Friday morning at Disney's Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista.

Six down, four to go

Cross another rookie off the list of unsigned Bucs draft picks.

Cornerback Alan Zemaitis, left, a fourth-round pick from Penn State, signed a contract Wednesday. That brings to six the number of rookies with completed deals, leaving four -- including the top three picks -- still unsigned.

That could change any minute as discussions between the representatives of top pick Davin Joseph, second-rounder Jeremy Trueblood and third-round pick Maurice Stovall are ongoing.

Stay tuned to Bucs blog for the latest on the eve of training camp. Players report tomorrow in Celebration.

Burning the midnight oil

The Bucs report to Celebration, Fla., for training camp tomorrow, but the team still doesn't have deals for its top four draft picks.

It's a very fluid situation, as talks continue. A meeting in St. Louis with general manager Bruce Allen, senior assistant Kevin Demoff and the agents for first-round pick Davin Joseph and Jeremy Trueblood lasted until 3:30 a.m.  but ended without a resolution. However, the sides are getting closer, and today could be the day.

Also unsigned are third-round pick Maurice Stovall(photo at left), fourth-round pick Alan Zemaitis and sixth-round pick T.J. Williams. Williams is less of a priority because an Achilles tendon injury is likely to sideline him for the season. Not going to matter much whether he reports tomorrow.