TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Now What? The Bucs' Linebackers

ADVERTISEMENT

The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 26, 2009

How Many Games Will The Bucs Win In 2009?

0-4

5-8

9-11

12 or more

Getting poll results. Please wait...

Tampa Bay's three leading tacklers in 2008 were starting linebackers, but Barrett Ruud, Derrick Brooks and Cato June each struggled down the stretch as the Bucs were shredded on the ground during their stunning December collapse.

And now Brooks and June are gone, surprisingly released Wednesday along with fellow veterans Warrick Dunn, Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard.

Ruud is an established force in the middle and new defensive coordinator Jim Bates can't wait to work with an emerging star who won't turn 26 until May.

Quincy Black registered a team-high 24 tackles on special teams, but the former third-round pick is still itching for his first pro start. Geno Hayes made his mark as a rookie with a blocked punt and return for a touchdown against the Panthers in October before the former Seminole standout suffered a season-ending knee injury.

There also are several potential free agent linebackers that would be attractive to the Bucs.

Bucs Under Contract For 2009

Quincy Black: Special teams standout anxious to start.

Geno Hayes: Turned in some good rookie moments.

Adam Hayward: Bucs like his upside.

Jamall Johnson: Former CFL player was signed in January.

Barrett Ruud: Emerging leader is on the brink of Pro Bowl status.

Rod Wilson: Youngster has potential in the middle.

Bucs Potential Free Agent

Matt McCoy: Played in five games last season.

NFL Potential Free Agents

LeRoy Hill, Seahawks: Experienced and only 26, he posted 81 stops in 2008.

Michael Boley, Falcons: Made 90 tackles last year and has been an effective blitzer.

Channing Crowder, Dolphins: This speedy former Gator is only 25 and could flourish in Buc scheme.

Zach Thomas, Cowboys: Can still play at 35 and has history with Bates in Miami.

Should the Bucs pursue one or more of these free agents to fill out the linebacker position, or attempt to improve through the draft?

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT