Ready ... Set ... Cut!
The Bucs as we thought of them are no more. Derrick Brooks is the second future Hall of Famer to be cut in the last 24 hours, and more big names will come soon from around the league. Teams have only two business days to get under the salary cap, and new Bucs GM Mark Dominik did not hesitate to start re-making his roster.
Brooks, Warrick Dunn, Joey Galloway, Cato June, and Ike Hilliard are all big names held in esteem by Tampa fans. And they are all gone now. But June was the only name that surprised me because he's the only one under 30 years old. His production matched his salary, which wasn't true for the other players.
June's release could indicate how far the Bucs will stray from Monte' Kiffin's usual Tampa Two system. He's a lightweight linebacker who wouldn't fit if the team is trying to bulk up.
Brooks and Dunn are franchise legends, and it seems possible that Brooks could return at a reduced rate. Dunn revived his career under Jon Gruden, and should be able to find a fit somewhere as a third-down back. Galloway and Hilliard may struggle to find jobs.
The Bucs don't have logical replacements at wideout or linebacker on the roster; Maurice Stovall at WR? Quincy Black at LB? Eh. (Stovall is currently the No. 2 wideout in Tampa, but he won't be for long. Dunn's release clears the way for Earnest Graham and a rookie to be named later to take over the backfield.)
Tampa is smart to get younger, cheaper, leaner. This could also open up salary cap space to make a run at Albert Haynesworth. Look for Tampa to be active in free agency and put a renewed emphasis in developing young talent now that GM Bruce Allen and Jon Gruden have left the building. Along with many other big names.





Comments
Brooks and Dunn is also one of the finest country music bands around. Just proves them folk up in Tampa don't know nothin bout hostin NASCAR events.
Posted by: countrified | February 25, 2009 03:45 PM
I think the colts could possibly pick up June. Seems like a good reunion.
Posted by: Travis | February 26, 2009 02:15 PM
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Posted by: Qizyazqa | July 16, 2009 02:31 AM
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Posted by: Qizyazqa | July 16, 2009 02:32 AM