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Barber: Bucs Should Be Better In '09

By IRA KAUFMAN | The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 25, 2009

How Many Games Will The Bucs Win In 2009?

TAMPA – As far as statements go, this was about as bold as it gets.

New coach Raheem Morris and first-year GM Mark Dominik tried to keep their emotions in check Wednesday following the release of five prominent veterans, including Derrick Brooks.

"At some point, Raheem was going to have to define his football team," said cornerback Ronde Barber, who survived the purge. "The organization wanted to do it earlier rather than later and they made some big moves today. Ideally, you want a young team with players that understand their roles. There's no easier way to do that than putting the pressure on them."

Barber, who turns 34 in April, recovered from a shaky start to tie for the club lead with four interceptions. He posted 100 tackles, led the team with 16 passes defensed and added two sacks and a fumble recovery.

"I know exactly where I fit on this football team," he said, "and I'm not going to pretend that I'll be playing forever. I'll know when it's time for me to go. It'll be loud and clear - and if it isn't, Raheem will be there to remind me."

Barber has developed a close relationship with Morris, who coached the Bucs secondary the past two seasons and often used Barber's professionalism as an example for his younger players.

Despite Wednesday's developments, Barber doesn't believe the Bucs took a major step back.

"Nobody in this league goes into a season expecting to be 6-10, and that's certainly not how I feel about our team," Barber said. "I don't see why we shouldn't have a better year in 2009. Going forward, we have a lot of potential. I have no doubt that a lot of our young guys will shine."

Barber has served as a quiet leader during his 11 seasons as a starter and he stands ready to oversee an imminent transition in the locker room.

"Derrick has been the unquestioned leader around here and now other players have to step up," Barber said. "It'll be me, by default, and Chris Hovan, by default, because we're returning veterans, but this organization is craving younger leadership.

"Whether it's a Barrett Ruud, a Tanard Jackson or an Aqib Talib, you're definitely going to see our younger guys assume more of a leadership role … and that's a good thing."

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