Quarterback Josh Freeman and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will not be talking contract extension anytime soon. (Photo: Guy Harbert)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Josh Freeman are not interested in talking with each other on a contract extension for the time being. But don’t worry about Mr. Freeman. The 24-year-old QB has two years left on a contract that could pay him $8.5 million next season and $10.4 million in 2013. Freeman’s dad and agent Ron said “We haven’t had any discussions about it. I think there’s no rush. Obviously, we want to have something done by 2013. It’s really kind of wait and see. I don’t think either side feels like there’s any reason to do something before then.”
Running back Kregg Lumpkin has left the Bucs and signed with the Seattle Seahawks. Lumpkin had 31 carries for 105 yards and had 41 receptions for 291 yards in 2011 with Tampa Bay.
Backup QB Josh Johnson has agreed to terms with the San Francisco 49ers. He signed a two-year-deal that could pay him $5 million. Mostly a backup during his 3 seasons in Tampa, he was 0-5 as the starter in 2011. He will be in competition for the backup role to newly re-signed 49ers starter Alex Smith.
The Bucs signed free agent tackle Jamon Meredith, formerly of the Pittsburgh Steelers. They agreed on a two-year-contract.
Tampa Bay also signed free agent wide receiver Vincent Jackson from San Diego. Jackson had 1,106 yards receiving in 2011 with 9 touchdowns. His contract is for 5 years and worth a little under $56 million.
All-Pro guard Carl Nicks left the Saints to sign with the Buccaneers. In 4 years in New Orleans, he never missed a game. His deal is for 5 years and will pay him $47 million.
Cornerback Eric Wright has left Detroit in favor of Tampa Bay. Wright started 16 games in 2011 and totalled 4 interceptions and a forced fumble. The parties agreed to a 5 year deal.
Micheal Bennett and long time fan favorite Ronde Barber each agreed to one year deals. Barber will be returning for his 16th season in Tampa Bay. “I’m really excited about the direction of the team, the moves we’ve made, and I can’t wait to get back to work,” Barber said.
Defensive ends Tim Crowder and Nick Reed were each cut on Thursday.
Cornerback Aqib Talib’s assault with a deadly weapon trial in Texas has been delayed until April 16th. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison. If he is acquitted he can still face the wrath of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell who just handed out major punishments in the New Orleans Saints “Bounty” investigation.
