Tampa Tribune reporter Anwar Richardson says the Bucs have spread the word to players that Luke McCown has two years to prove himself

It now seems like the Bucs will be completely avoiding a quarterback in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Speaking this morning on ESPN 1040 AM, Bucs beat writer Anwar Richardson, who cashes a paycheck from The Tampa Tribune, gave a brief preview of his upcoming Sunday feature story on Luke McCown.

Richardson said McCown has been told he has “a two-year window” to be the starting quarterback.

Other members of the offense also were  advised McCown will get that time to develop, Richardson said.

Richardson said running back Derrick Ward is quoted in his Sunday feature story talking about how there was a similar edict in New York Giants camp early on in Eli Manning’s career.

Now Joe believes Richardson and knows he’s a sound reporter.

However, Joe does not believe for a second that the Bucs would not deal for Jay Cutler if the price is right.

Though Alex Marvez of FoxSports.com loves Davin Joesph, he's not overly impressed with the Bucs' offseason moves thus far.

Alex Marvez of FoxSports.com was a guest on Sirius NFL Radio’s “The Blitz” today with Adam Schein and Solomon Wilcots and he had quite a bit to say about the Bucs.

To suggest Marvez, a longtime NFL writer, has modest reservations about the Bucs this upcoming season is to suggest Obama is open-minded to cutting checks to incompetent white collar types.

Marvez said, in short, the Bucs do not have the horses for defensive coordinator Jim Bates to piece together a decent defense nor do the Bucs have a quarterback worthy of leading a team to a playoff push.

After pretty much unloading on the defensive front-seven Marvez said, “The defensive tackles… I don’t think [the Bucs] have the personnel to run a Bates system.”

Then, Marvez took aim at the offense.

“If they think a fifth round pick from last season has a chance to be the starting quarterback… that’s a major drawback. They’ve always said they wanted someone to compete [at quarterback] which to me, my guess is Brian Griese is the odd man out.

“They did add a lot of talent on the offensive side. I love the run blocking strength of the offensive line. I think Davin Joseph is a beast. They even have good depth there. Jeremy Zuttah will push people.

“You look at the talent there on offense, it’s the most they’ve ever had. They have a lot of weapons to work with if they had a quarterback.

“But they don’t have a quarterback.”

Marvez suggested whoever the Bucs select in the first round in April’s NFL draft will tell fans if the Bucs are actually rebuilding or consider themselves a contender.

“If [the Bucs] take a quarterback, that’s an indication that are a year or two away. But how much patience do you have? The standards are extremely high in Tampa. But are the Bucs willing to give [general manager Mark] Dominik and [head coach Raheem The Dream] time?”

In short, Marvez doesn’t expect the Bucs to do much this season.

“There are too many question marks with Tampa Bay.”

Steve Wyche of NFL.com claims former Bucs linebacker Derrick Brooks would be a good fit for the Saints in 2009

Joe is still peeved at Bucs general manager Mark Dominik for kicking one of the greatest Bucs of all time and still a productive player, Derrick Brooks, to the curb.

And this nightmare of seeing Brooks suit up for another team just might get downright ugly if Steve Wyche of NFL.com is correct.

Brooks, so Wyche claims, could again suit up at the CITS in front of Bucs fans.

But in the black and gold colors of the New Orleans Saints.

THE SAINTS!!!???

Brooks, (35 next month), said he would like to play at least one more year and that he is exploring his options, which include retirement. Brooks would have to find the ideal system where he could continue to play an effective role off the line of scrimmage. With more teams switching to a 3-4 scheme, his options could be limited. As horrible as it would be for Buccaneers followers, NFC South rival New Orleans might be a solid fit.

This would be a outrage beyond words, like rubbing salt in an open wound, or worse, like being forced to listen to those dime store has-been chicken wing waitresses on local radio in the afternoon without the aid of a bottle of Bushmills.

C’mon Dominik, do the right thing: Swallow your pride and get Brooks back for his final NFL year.

If Brooks does take the field in Tampa for the Saints and does anything at all against the Bucs, Joe will NEVER forgive Dominik.

Broncos coach Josh McDaniels is of the belief former Secretary of State Condi Rice is not a Bucs fan. As a result, he's not trading quarterback Jay Cutler to the Bucs, so claims SI.com columnist Peter King via the NFL Network.

If the Bucs do not end up with disgruntled and almost-Bucs quarterback Jay Cutler barking signals at the CITS, Bucs fans can blame Condi Rice.

The former Secretary of State and admitted NFLaholic, Rice spoke at the owners meetings this week in California and told the assembled they should not react to blaring headlines of the day.

Hearing Rice, Broncos coach Josh McDaniels believes she was speaking to him, in so many words. SI.com columnist Peter King revealed this via the NFL Network.

King describes the séance Rice put McDaniels in with great detail.

Via CollegeFootballTalk.com, Joe learned the Dayton Daily News reports Chucky nearly took a job at — with apologies to T.K. Wetherell — some dipshit school.

A higher institute of learning in Ohio known as Central State University nearly landed Chucky as its head coach.

Yeah, and Joe woke up this morning with Marisa Miller draped all over him.

The school’s athletic director, Kellen Winslow, Sr. (that’s right, Sgt. Winslow’s old man), claims he first offered the job to Chucky before finally settling on former All-Pro and Alabama stud E.J. Junior.

Winslow said his first phone call about the job opening went to former Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden, the former University of Dayton quarterback, who Winslow said seriously considered the opportunity. Afterward, Winslow searched through about 80 submitted resumes.

If true, Joe finds it interesting the two leading candidates were Chucky and a guy who did time for coke.

Bucs owner Joel Glazer refers to free agency as a dangerous 'dark path' of evil. Joe is confused. Is this not the same guy who gave the green light to sign Albert Haynesworth?

The Glazer Boys emerged for their annual state-of-the-Bucs sitdown with the local MSM at the NFL owners’ meetings in California today.

It seems Joel Glazer wants a return to the Bucs’ glory days, back when they were allegedly building the team through the draft.

Though Glazer seems to forget the Bucs won a Super Bowl, in part by trading two No. 1 picks for Keyshawn Johnson and two No. 1 picks for Jon Gruden, and kicking aside the quarterbacks they drafted in favor of Brad Johnson. 

Joe is offering up these quotes and you can read Rick Stroud’s long version at TampaBay.com.

“Our core belief is you’ve got to be patient. You’ve got to draft well,” Glazer said. “It all starts there. If you don’t draft well, you’re just going to be piecing it together every year. If you look at the teams that have had success the last several years, Super Bowl teams, they aren’t huge, splash free agency teams. They draft, develop and exercise patience.    

“That is definitely a focus of ours. When we take a step back and we look at our franchise, that’s something we had for many years. I think a little of that was lost. But the only way you get that is to be patient, draft, identify young players, watch them grow and people will go on the path with the player together. It’s just a natural process and I know it’s also our core belief in winning. I think they go hand in hand.”

Joe is scratching his head. Then why trade for Sgt. Kellen Winslow?

Surely it would have been more of a “natural process” to let Alex Smith play a bigger role.

Glazer continues:

We have a plan. We’re going to be disciplined and we’re going to be patient. We’re going to stick to it and do what we think is in the best interest of long-term, sustainable success. I come back to the draft. You’ve got to succeed in the draft. Free agency is not going to solve all our problems. You have to always be in the position that once we’ve identified good players, that we’re in a position not to lose those good players and that’s the key. Winning in March in free agency, very rarely do you see those teams in the headlines in January. You have to be disciplined to resist what can lead you down a dark path.

How about that for phony drama. Free agency is a “dark path.”

This is the same guy who clearly gave the go-ahead just weeks ago for the Bucs to make a run at Albert Hayenesworth.

Or was that just a show for the fans, with no intent to sign Haynesworth?

Joe despises all this spin and non-football blabbering. It’s downright painful to know that training camp is four long months away.

Today's daily in-depth draft coverage at JoeBucsFan.com analyzes the next moves for Bill Parcells and Bill Belicheat

Now that Bill Parcells’ sleazy courtship of Antonio Bryant appears to be on hold, The Tuna can get on with the business of the NFL Draft.

And when it comes to the draft, The Tuna reigns supreme.

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Scott Smith of Buccaneers.com has a video feature on how newly annointed — until the Bucs get a new quarterback — starting QB Luke McCown is handling being the team’s No. 1 signal caller.

Joe is pretty much convinced that unless the Bucs work out a three-team deal for Jay Cutler (with Cleveland or Arizona perhaps?) there’s no way Cutler finds himself in Tampa Bay, unless he’s chasing hottie spring breakers on Clearwater Beach.

Joe can think of worse ways to kill time on a sunny spring day.

Denver Post columnist Woody Paige gives a good inside look at a potential Cutler trade in this video, including saying trading Jay Cutler for a No. 1 and No 3 pick wouldn’t be so bad for Denver.

Paige also talks about the ineptitude and arrogance of Josh McDaniels.

Count WFTS-TV sportscaster Al Keck as one who is not in the tank at all costs for disgruntled Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler.

Writing on his station’s website, Keck admits he’s love to see Cutler wearing Pewter and Red, but within reason. Keck doesn’t believe in giving up the farm for the almost-Bucs quarterback.

I can understand a first and a third. Even that is stretching it. If your scouting department is doing its job, a first and third should translate to a dominant starter and a solid regular.

But a pair of first rounders? The Buccaneers are just starting to recover from giving up 2 first-round picks to the Jets for Keyshawn Johnson and two #1’s and 2 #2’s for Jon Gruden.

That’s upwards of 6 starters. Obviously, nobody would expect the Buccaneers to hit on all six, but if three panned out think about how much better this team would be.

Joe is likeminded with Keck. Sure, Joe would love to have Cutler. But giving up two first round picks (at least) is crazy for a quarterback who is a glorified spoiled brat who hasn’t logged time in a playoff game yet.

Can anyone say “Jeff George?”

Sure the Bucs gave up two first round picks for Chucky. But the Bucs were banging on the Super Bowl door and needed a push to knock it through. The Bucs are a far cry from a Super Bowl contender, even with Cutler.

The Jets' confidence in Kellen Clemens will help shape the first round for the Bucs

NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski begins his team-by-team analysis. First up is the AFC East, specifically the Jets and Bills.

The Bills have more issues on defense than the Bucs, specifically a horrid pass rush and a hole at outside linebacker.

Decisions at the quarterback position will shape the Jets’ draft, but they do have pressing needs on defense.

Enjoy the stellar breakdown, part of the daily draft coverage on JoeBucsFan.com.

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Either Kansas State quarterback Josh Freeman has the best hype agent this side of Drew Rosenhaus, or the guy is legitimately turning NFL scouts heads.

Freeman, who wasn’t even mentioned as one of the top tier quarterbacks in a conference that largely was a collective sieve of defensive play, continues to have his name bounced around as a first round draft choice.

And all too often Joe reads of the paper-thin connection of Freeman to newly ordained Bucs coach Raheem the Dream, only because The Dream was an assistant there for one year when Freeman was an underclassman.

Still, the rumors from insiders persist Freeman will be selected in the first round. Add Pat Kirwan of NFL.com to the list of people who think the Bucs may draft Freeman in Kirwan’s latest mock draft.

Players under consideration include Evander Hood and Rey Maualuga. The Buccaneers have been active in free agency, signing players such as Derrick Ward, trading for Kellen Winslow and letting older defensive players go. They need help on defense, but if Freeman grades out as a first-round quarterback and they only have McCown under contract, they may have to pull Freeman’s name down off the board and turn it in.

Joe finds it difficult to believe that a quarterback who couldn’t master the ole’ defenses of the Big XII would all of a sudden be an NFL first round draft choice.

Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times appears on NFL Network Monday to discuss the offseason moves of the Bucs thus far and what the Bucs may be looking to do at the NFL owners meetings this week and a peek into the Bucs plans for the upcoming draft.

For some odd reason, people, including Stroud, seem to think just because Raheem the Dream coached at Kansas State that the Bucs will pick Kansas State quarterback Josh Freeman in the first round.

Former Bucs wide receiver Joey Galloway was a guest on Sirius NFL Radio’s “The Blitz” Monday with co-hosts Adam Schein and Solomon Wilcots. While most of the questions were about Galloway’s new team the New England Patriots, Schein and Wilcots did pepper Galloway with questions about his stay with the Bucs and the circumstances leading to his departure.

Adam Schein: What was your relationship like with Jon Gruden?

Joey Galloway: My relationship with Gruden was the least of the [issues] with the Bucs. Things were looking good for us and [the playoffs] didn’t happen. Everyone was disappointed. I never focused on what was going on with me and coach Gruden. I was focused on getting one more win to get to the playoffs.

The relationship with me and coach Gruden and the organization, it seemed like everything was falling apart around us and it all ended badly. Guys lost their jobs. Guys are not with the organization any longer. That’s where things ended badly.

AS: Were there distractions?

JG: Yeah, there were distractions. I truly think we were the same team (as 2007) but there were issues. When we were winning, well, winning makes things better. You can look past problems and issues. I think when we got to the last four games and the problems and issues that were there all along became magnified. They surfaced.

Yeah, there were problems in Week 2, Week 3, Week 6 but it was in Week 12 and 13 and 14 when the wheels fell off.

There were quarterback issues and not with Jeff Garcia.

A lot of guys felt they were not handled the right way and that is one of the MO’s with coach Gruden. People were complaining about the way they were handled and that was one issue that came back to bite us.

A lot of people were disgruntled and when we needed to come together as a team there were guys who didn’t trust guys and that makes the transition to be able to pull together tough.

Solomon Wilcots: Were you surprised you were let go?

JG: No, but I was more surprised with Derrick Brooks being let go. I was more surprised at other moves.

[The Bucs] would not call my agent back. With my productivity last year, it’s not surprising they let me go. I think it worked out well for both of us.

AS: Will Gruden coach in the NFL again?

JG: I think he will. He is a great offensive mind. Guys get fired and things go bad but they resurface. He has way too much knowledge and way too much experience not to coach again.

SW: Who should have been quarterback?

JG: Depends which week. Depends on what week. That was one area that was very interesting. Not any one guy was happy with what happened.

SW: How did the huddle respond?

JG: I think it will always be difficult to play with three different quarterbacks. Part of being a professional is no matter who is the quarterback you have to do your job to the best of your ability whether it’s coaching decisions or injuries, there will always be change. You never have the same 11 week to week.

AS: Are you surprised Garcia is still available?

JG: He is dealing with the same situation with age and people will be wondering if you can still play. Teams think they can get a different guy in the draft. He is a tremendous competitor. Things will work out.

SW: Will Derrick Brooks find work?

JG: That’s another situation which will take time to get done. I don’t know where he will play but he will play. There’s a guy who has way too much knowledge not to play. I think he will surprise people with how much he has left.

AS: Are you surprised Michael Clayton re-signed with the Bucs?

JG: I’m not surprised. He is a guy who will compete and will do whatever he is asked to do. He didn’t have good numbers but anyone around him will tell you what kind of a competitor he is and he is by far the most physical receiver in the running game I have ever played for.

AS: What is Antonio Bryant like?

JG: He is a tremendous talent. I have played with him in Dallas and in Tampa. He is tremendously talented and a high energy guy on game day. You love the way he wants to compete and brings it on game day.

If NFL.com’s Vic Carucci is to be believed, the Bucs are one of the leading teams to play the Bills in Toronto this season. If true, it would make the second game of the 2009 that the Bucs will play on foreign soil.

The Bucs will also play New England in London.

On his NFL.com blog, Carucci writes that the Bucs and Saints are the leading contenders to play the Bills in Toronto.

The Colts clearly were one of the biggest-drawing cards on the Bills’ schedule because of their marquee quarterback, Peyton Manning, and consistent success. However, the NFL appears to be leaning more strongly in the direction of choosing an NFC team, such as the Buccaneers (who have yet to settle on a starting quarterback) or perhaps the New Orleans Saints, who have Pro Bowler Drew Brees under center. At least one other unknown team is believed to be on the short list.

Most fans who regularly attend games at Ralph Wilson Stadium aren’t at all happy about any regular-season Bills games being played elsewhere, but based on sports-talk radio chatter and other feedback, they would be less bothered if that game involved a non-conference opponent. The prevailing feeling in Western New York was that facing the Miami Dolphins last season in Toronto’s Rogers Centre, which has a retractable roof that was closed, nullified the Bills’ bad-weather advantage in December. And there has been plenty of buzz among Buffalo fans that the Colts, as an indoor team, would also feel too cozy in the Rogers Centre.

Though playing in Toronto (in a dome) will be better than potentially playing in Buffalo in December, Joe still considers it an outrage that the NFL took away a Bucs home game to be played in the NFL hotbed that is London, England.

In his weekly “Monday Morning Quarterback” column on SI.com, Peter King suggests the Bucs won’t get the quarterback they nearly acquired a few weeks ago: Denver signal-caller Jay Cutler.

Why? Because, King states, Cutler won’t be traded.

That’s my feeling after talking to the involved parties for a (insert shameless plug here) Sports Illustrated story this week. Now, I can’t say with conviction that Cutler’s going to be the Broncos’ opening day starter, but I do think coach Josh McDaniels will exhaust every avenue to try to get Cutler to stay, and I do think nothing’s going to happen here. Funny thing is, around the lobby and meeting rooms, I couldn’t find any coach who thought the Broncos should even think of trading Cutler.

“Say you’re the Broncos, and Tampa Bay offers you two ones [two first-round picks] plus [second-year quarterback] Josh Johnson for Cutler,” one NFC coach told me. “Denver makes the deal and picks a quarterback with one of the ones. You’ve traded the best young quarterback in football for two guys who might have a chance, but might be washouts too. Denver’s problem is they could never get fair value for him.”

Joe’s contention is that, unless the Bucs find a third partner, the Bucs don’t have enough collateral to trade for Cutler. If Josh Johnson was all that (so Bucs insiders claim) then what’s the need for Cutler? If Luke McCown is so talented (as so many Bucs suggest) then what’s the need for Cutler?

Or is the hype machine for McCown and Johnson more of a con job?

Negotiating with this man is a bad omen, writes JoeBucsFan.com analyst Bob Fox

By BOB FOX
JoeBucsFan.com analyst

A seasoned, professional football writer, Bob Fox sounds off at JoeBucsFan.com on all things Bucs and NFL.

As someone who has covered the Green Bay Packers for years, let me warn the Bucs: Do not acquire quarterback Jay Cutler from the Denver Broncos.

The reason? Cutler’s agent, Bus Cook.
 
There is no question that Cutler has a ton of ability. However, he also has only a 17-20 record in the NFL as a starter, and he and the Broncos had a monumental collapse last season. Sound familiar Bucs fans? Surely you recall the Bucs’ late season fade in 2008.
 
Cutler has a great arm and he led a very productive offense. But he has displayed lapses of judgment and immaturity. And, like Brett Favre, Cutler has allowed the presence of Cook to overshadow so much of his on-field achievements.
 
The Packers and Favre had poor communication through the last few years Favre was with the team.

The Favre camp tried to assign blame to general manager Ted Thompson. But for me, a much bigger factor to me was the meddling presence of Cook.

Don’t believe me? Look at the recent blog entry by Greg A. Bedard from the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

Somewhere Bus Cook’s ears are ringing.

 “I understand Jay (Cutler)’s feelings got hurt, but it’s too bad it has got to where it is,” John Elway said. “I wish Jay would have got some better advice from whoever he was getting advice from.”  And several people at 1265 Lombardi are saying, ‘Amen, brother.’

Bedard also references SI.com columnist Don Banks, who wrote about how Bus Cook also was front and center in high-profile controversies surrounding clients Steve McNair and Brett Favre.

Another echo from the past that has reminded some of Favre’s stance last summer has been Cutler’s refusal to meet with his new head coach, McDaniels, without Cook in the room, or on the phone, at the same time. Packers general manager Ted Thompson and head coach Mike McCarthy have privately maintained that they felt Cook poisoned the relationship between Favre and the Packers decision-makers. Broncos sources say the same dynamic is in place regarding how Cutler feels about the new power structure of McDaniels and Xanders in Denver.

Again, there is no question about Cutler’s ability. But with Cutler, comes Cook. 

And I saw how badly that movie ended once before.

North Carolina receiver Hakeem Nicks is two parts Anquan Boldin and one part Keyshawn Johnson, reports NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski.

No wide receiver was selected in Round 1 of the 2008 NFL Draft.

This year will be much, much different, says NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, of 620 WDAE-AM.

In today’s daily podcast, Pawlowski gives an overview of his complete receivers and tight ends breakdown published exclusively here  at JoeBucsFan.com.

It’s simply the best NFL draft coverage anywhere!

The heck with Jay Cutler, Son of Bob says he wants the damn ball.

Hold on Luke lovers and Cutler dreamers.

Don’t forget about Brian “Son of Bob” Griese. Sir Pickedalot wants to run the Bucs’ show in 2009.

Offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski is looking for a pocket passer to lead a vertical game and, well, Son of Bob can stand firm in the pocket with the best of them. Heck, he won’t even move.

Now Joe is not here to take another round of shots at Son of Bob. That’s getting old.

But Son of Bob is speaking out. In a truly well done story in today’s Denver Post, Griese talks about the Jay Cutler controversy and himself.

His contract with Tampa Bay runs for two more years. “I don’t want to just hang around the game. I want to be a leader on the field and in the locker room,” Griese said. “I want to be the starter. I saw (Arizona quarterback) Kurt Warner at a charity event two weeks ago, and said, ‘Thanks from all the older guys for what you did for us.’ “

While Son of Bob tries to channel his youth, Joe would much rather see the Bucs trade him for the 2009 sixth round pick they gave up for him last year.

Surely, the Bucs are fielding offers every day.

NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski talks about Cincinnatti's Connor Barwin and other pro day winners and losers.

One guy skyrocketing up draft boards is Cincinnati defensive end/linebacker/tight end Connor Barwin.

It always helps when you’re 6-4, 256 lbs. and run the 40-yard dash in 4.47 seconds.

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Should the Bucs pass on a defensive tackle to grab Jeremy Macklin? Learn about him and 18 receivers and tight ends who could impact the Bucs and the NFL.

Along with the Bucs’ gaping holes on defense, there remains a glaring need for a No. 3 (or better) wide receiver. Maurice Stovall just doesn’t inspire much confidence.

Defensive coordinator Jim Bates, of course, is probably praying the Bucs don’t trade for Jay Cutler and do snatch a big run-stuffer in Round 1 of the NFL Draft.

However, NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, host of the The Blitz, on 620 WDAE-AM,  says the Bucs might not be able to pass on a certain wide receiver with their first round pick. 

Learn about him and 18 receivers and tight ends in today’s positions breakdowns. It’s just another chapter in the most complete and Bucs-specific draft preview anywhere. Enjoy daily draft coverage right here at JoeBucsFan.com. {+++}

Wide Receivers

Updated 3-21-09, Justin Pawlowski

Michael Crabtree – Texas Tech
6’1’’ – 215 lbs – DNP
Top 10 

Why I’m taking him: The main reason I’d take Crabtree is his hands.  When I watch this guy, he never drops a pass.  Also, whenever a play needs to be made, he makes it.  He’s the type of receiver your quarterback can have faith in at all times.

Why I’m staying away: I must admit I was a little disappointed when Crabtree measured in at the combine 2 inches shorter than what he was listed at Texas Tech.  Also, not being able to fully workout before the draft is a scary proposition.  I do agree that he can be an elite player, but there are other elite players in this draft, and if it comes down to me having to choose between a player that worked out and one that didn’t, I’m choosing the one that did.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Don’t get your hopes up.  The odds of this happening are less than the odds that I will forget about the NFL and the draft, and start wall to wall coverage of tennis.  If that one percentage point comes true and the Bucs get a chance to draft Crabtree, you should thank God, play the lottery, and go to Vegas.  He will be a great receiver!!!  Oh, by the way, bye bye Antonio Bryant.

 NFL Comparison: Larry Fitzgerald & Anquan Boldin:  I would be shocked if Crabtree wasn’t a star in the NFL.  I went through each receiver in the NFL and couldn’t figure out who Crabtree reminds me of.  In the end, I realized that Crabtree has the size and build of Anquan Boldin, but the incredible hands and route running of Larry Fitzgerald.  His speed might only be average, but with those qualities, he won’t have to worry about speed.

Jeremy Maclin – Missouri
6’ – 198 lbs – 4.45
Top 15

Why I’m taking him: Speed.  That’s my answer.  I remember one of the first times I saw Maclin play, and I was amazed.  He has the speed and agility to make a big play at anytime, but his hands are great as well.  He always seems to catch the ball with his hands and never takes his eyes off of it until it’s in his grasp.  Maclin will also add something pretty special to my return game.

Why I’m staying away: To be quite honest, I’m not really sure why I’d stay away from Maclin.  I’m not thrilled about his overall size.  He isn’t very tough or physical.  He definitely needs to work on his route running, coming from the spread offense.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Maclin would be a great addition to the Bucs new vertical offense.  Who wouldn’t like to see Maclin line up opposite of Antonio Bryant with Michael Clayton in the slot.  If he’s there at the 19th pick, the Bucs better think long and hard.

NFL Comparison: Reggie Wayne:  I’ve always viewed Reggie Wayne as the silent killer on the Colts.  In an NFL with Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, and other big mouthed receivers, Reggie Wayne is one of the best and quietest around.  I think Maclin could be very similar.

Percy Harvin – Florida
5’11’’ – 192 lbs – 4.41
1st Round

Why I’m taking him: Harvin is the best playmaker in this draft.  He’s lined up at receiver and running back at Florida, and has sliced up some of the best and fastest defenses in college football.  The gear Harvin seems to hit when he sees a seam is unlike most players in college or the pros.  It’s at that point he accelerates into his rare breakaway speed.  His cuts are crisp.  His movements are fluid.  He’s a multi-threat who can also return kicks and punts.

Why I’m staying away: This guy can’t seem to stay healthy.  I’m not sure if it’s the stretching or the strength, but Harvin has to find a way to stay on the field and avoid the big hit.  The good news is that he hasn’t had any major injuries, but the small ones have added up over the years and have kept him out of games.  He also needs to improve his route running.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Harvin is interesting.  On one hand, he could be one of the most electric players in the NFL.  If that happens, it will be hard watching him do that in another uniform.  On the other hand, he could be constantly getting injured and never turn into anything in the NFL.  If that happens, it will be tough watching him do that in a Buccaneer uniform.  The question is, “are you willing to take the risk?”  

NFL Comparison: Steve Smith:   There are a lot of similarities here, even more than I thought.  Obviously, their sizes are very similar.  Also, their movements, agility, and speed are very comparable.  Actually, their speed is so similar; they both ran a 4.41 in the 40 yard dash at their respected combines.  The question is whether Harvin can turn into the polished receiver that Smith has turned into.

Hakeem Nicks – North Carolina
6’1’’ – 212 lbs – 4.54
1st – 2nd – Round

Why I’m taking him: I love the pair of hands Nicks has.  He’s made a few of the best catches I’ve seen in college.  Nicks is an excellent route runner, and is not afraid to go over the middle and make the tough catch.  He’s also strong and physical and willing to lay a big hit on a defender.  He’s got great character, and has proven to be healthy over his collegiate career.

Why I’m staying away: The one thing lacking from Nicks game is elite speed.  I believe he’s got enough speed to get open, and could make the occasional play down the field, but most of his work will be as a possession receiver.  His speed might be comparable to Keyshawn Johnson.

Impact on the Bucs roster: There’s a lot to like about Nicks, but I’m not so sure he’d be a good fit for what the Bucs are doing on offense.  Right now, the Bucs already have Bryant and Clayton who are both more possession receivers than speed receivers.  I’m not so sure the Bucs would want to add another possession receiver to that list.

NFL Comparison: Anquan Boldin:  They have a similar build and size.  They have similar speed.  They are both physical.  They both catch the ball extremely well.  Did I miss anything?

Darrius Heyward-Bey – Maryland
6’2’’ – 210 lbs – 4.30
1st Round

Why I’m taking him: I love the combination of size and speed with Heyward-Bey.  That combination could make him a legit No. 1 receiver in the NFL.  His long arms and excellent leaping ability make him even taller than he already is.  Heyward-Bey also possesses a great work ethic and will to get better.

Why I’m staying away: First, I’d stay away because I’d hate to have to say “Heyward-Bey” anytime I’m talking about him.  I’d take him if it was either “Heyward” or “Bey”, but not both together.  Also, the main reason I wouldn’t take him is his inconsistent hands.  There is nothing more frustrating in football than a receiver who has trouble catching the ball.  Right, Michael Clayton?  He’s very raw as a receiver as well, and would need good coaching.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m not so sure Heyward-Bey would be a great pick for the Bucs.  Sure, he’s got speed to get deep in the Bucs vertical offense, but I’m not so sure the Bucs are looking for a “project” at receiver with inconsistent hands.  Personally, I think there will be other players available at 19 that would be a much better fit for the Bucs.

NFL Comparison: Roddy White or Troy Williamson:  I put both White and Williamson because those are the two directions Heyward-Bey could go.  Who the hell was Troy Williamson before the combine?  Well, the same could be said for Heyward-Bey after he ran a 4.30 at that combine.  I do think Heyward-Bey had more success in college, which is why I do believe there is a chance, with his physical tools, he turns into a stud receiver.  The fact is, Heyward-Bey is a boom or bust prospect in this year’s draft.

Kenny Britt – Rutgers
6’3’’ – 218 lbs – 4.47
1st – 2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: After covering USF last year, I got to see first hand what Kenny Britt can do.  He is quite the talent.  There’s a reason he’s been rising up draft boards.  His combination of excellent size and 4.47 speed is very impressive.  I also know that he has very good hands, and uses his big body to shield defenders from the ball.  He’s also not afraid to go across the middle.

Why I’m staying away: Attitude and maturity could be Britt’s downfall.  Some scouts who have met with him have described Britt as “arrogant.”  With arrogance could come laziness or a lack of work ethic.  Arrogance can also cause a problem in the locker room.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Britt might need to go to a team with strong leadership to help control his arrogance and force him to mature.  Unfortunately for the Bucs, those leaders were released a few days before free agency.  Because of that, I don’t believe Britt would fit in with the Bucs locker room.  He has a ton of talent, but the Bucs have more dire needs.

NFL Comparison: Terrell Owens:  Let me first explain that I don’t feel that Britt will be as much a pain in the ass as Owens, but the potential is there.  Britt has a similar build to Owens, but might actually catch the ball a little better.  Britt’s success might come down to what his attitude turns out to be, and how quickly he can mature.

Derrick Williams – Penn St.
5’11’’ – 194 lbs – 4.37 (Pro Day Number)
2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: I like Williams as an all-around playmaker.  While at Penn St, Williams played quarterback, wide receiver, running back, and also returned punts and kicks.  Despite a poor performance at the combine while battling the flu, Williams bounced back to show what kind of athlete he is by having an outstanding pro day at Penn St.  Williams will bring a nice spark to any offense.

Why I’m staying away: Williams was the No. 1 recruit coming out of high school, but never lived up to expectations.  That worries me that he might be an underachiever.  Another thing that worries me is his habit of dropping catchable passes.  Inconsistent play has clouded his collegiate career.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m actually a fan of Williams.  He might not be an elite player, but he would be a very solid 2nd round pick.  The problem is that the Bucs don’t have a 2nd round pick.  If Williams somehow falls to the 3rd round, the Bucs should waste no time in drafting him, but I believe his stock is moving up as we speak, to the upper half of the 2nd round.

NFL Comparison: Eddie Royal:  When I watch both of these guys on film, maybe it’s just me, but they remind me so much of each other.  Both are shifty receivers, who bring speed and playmaking ability to an offense.  Both of these players are also very good returners.

Brian Robiskie – Ohio St.
6’3’’ – 209 lbs – 4.51
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: I like Robiskie most because he already has the look of a professional receiver.  What I mean is that he is an excellent route runner, which is essential in the NFL, and he catches everything thrown his way.  He is a very intelligent player who knows what it takes to succeed, and has one of the best work ethics because of that.  He’s also very durable and has a ton of experience.

Why I’m staying away: I’m staying away from Robiskie because his potential might be tapped.  He isn’t very electric or fast, and has a tough time getting separation.  He isn’t very elusive either, which affects his yards after a catch.  There really anything special or flashy about Robiskie.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m not so sure Robiskie would be a great fit for what the Bucs are doing.  He’s definitely a possession receiver, and the Bucs already have both Bryant and Clayton who fit that mold.  However, I would not be upset at all if the Bucs drafted him.  He is a true football player whose desire, heart, and work ethic could rub off on his teammates.

NFL Comparison: TJ Houshmanzadeh:  Robiskie reminds me a lot of the type of possession receiver Houshmanzadeh has become over the course of his career. Neither player has the speed to burn by a corner, but they are both smart and excellent route runners which help them to get open.  Once they’re open, you won’t see either of these players dropping too many passes.

Ramses Barden – Cal. Poly
6’6’’ – 229 lbs – 4.51
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: As a receiver, you have to love this guy’s size.  Once Barden ran his 40 at his pro day, and ran a 4.51, he immediately started moving up draft boards.  What also comes with a man of his stature is long arms and big hands, both of which help him catch everything thrown his way.  He is a smart player as well.
 
Why I’m staying away: The thing that worries me most with Barden is his level of competition.  Sure, he dominated at his level, but that level wasn’t very good.  How will he do against NFL corners?  Even though he ran a nice 40 at his pro day, that doesn’t mean he has elite speed to get deep.  Along with the lack of deep speed, he lacks the speed to get separation.  

Impact on the Bucs roster: OK, so the Bucs don’t need a receiver, but if Barden is there in the 3rd round, would I take a flyer?  I’d have to say I’d at least think long and hard about it.  I mean, this is a guy who caught 36 touchdowns the last 2 seasons.  Think about that.  Also, other than Bryant and Clayton, who do the Bucs have?  Maurice Stovall?  Dexter Jackson?  Paris Warren?  Barden blows all of them out of the water.

NFL Comparison: Vincent Jackson:  I remember the year Jackson was drafted out of the University of Northern Colorado.  Everyone seemed to forget about him because of his level of competition.  Personally, I think Jackson is a pretty good receiver.  For comparison, Barden is taller, faster, and has better hands.

Louis Murphy – Florida
6’2’’ – 203 lbs – 4.43
3rd – 4th Round

Why I’m taking him: Murphy is an intriguing prospect.  I love the combination of size and speed he possesses.  He also has very good hands and can make the tough catch in traffic.  Murphy is really nice in the vertical game as his timed speed translates very well to the field.  Once he hits his second gear, he can create separation with defensive backs in the secondary.  I also like how Murphy has matured over the course of his career at Florida.  During his early years, his work ethic was terrible and he was constantly in Urban Meyer’s doghouse.  Recently, his work ethic is very good, and he is more focused than ever on the game of football.

Why I’m staying away: He is a Florida receiver, right?  You know, I hate grouping a player because of the position he plays and where he played it at, but this is pretty ridiculous with Florida receivers failing in the NFL.  At first, I thought it was Spurrier receivers, but Urban Meyer’s receivers haven’t done much better.  Route running could be one of the main issues with Meyer’s receivers making the transition to the NFL, and that’s one of Murphy’s weaknesses.  It doesn’t help either that Murphy might not have the smarts either.  Also, he might have good top-end speed, but his agility and ability to make defenders miss, isn’t very good.

Impact on the Bucs roster: With the Bucs moving away from the West Coast offense and more toward a vertical pass game, I think Murphy might be a good mid-round selection.  For the Bucs sake, I wouldn’t take him any higher than the 4th round though.  I understand that Murphy might go in the 3rd round, but the Bucs have more pressing needs to address in the 3rd round than a middle-of-the-pack wide receiver.  Now, if Murphy slips to the 4th round, I’d have absolutely no problem with the Bucs taking him.  As goes with all the receivers in this draft, the Bucs could add another and it shouldn’t affect the players already slated to make the team.

NFL Comparison: Chad Jackson:  I guess the comparison here should be with any other Florida receiver.  Chad Jackson had amazing measurables, but never made it in the NFL.  Last year, Andre Caldwell blazed the 40 at the combine, but the Bengals weren’t to enthused with him last season.  The question is whether Louis Murphy will break the mold, and only time will tell us that.

Juaquin Iglesias – Oklahoma
6’1’’ – 210 lbs – 4.56
3rd – 4th Round

Why I’m taking him: I like the little things Iglesias brings to his game.  He’s a very good route runner, and possesses the quickness to shake defenders.  He’s also a clutch receiver that makes big plays when big plays are needed.  Iglesias has an excellent work ethic to  help him improve in the NFL as well.

Why I’m staying away: I got a chance to watch Oklahoma a few times last season, and each time I watched them, I was extremely disappointed in Iglesias.  He doesn’t have elite size or speed.  Also, in each game I watched, I saw him drop a pass or two he should have caught.  His lack of strength might make him susceptible to jams from cornerbacks.  

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m not a fan of Iglesias at all.  I do not think he’d be a very good fit for the Bucs.  If the Bucs want this type of receiver, I’d hope they’d look at Brian Robiskie.

NFL Comparison: Darrell Jackson:  I played with Darrell Jackson at Tampa Catholic.  My biggest complaint about him was that he never caught the ball with his hands.  This lead to a few drops.  I see the same problem with Iglesias.  There are too many times where I see Iglesias let the ball get into his chest.  Because of this, he had those drops I wrote about above.

Tight Ends

Brandon Pettigrew – Oklahoma St.
6’5’’ – 263 lbs – 4.85
1st – 2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: Pettigrew is a very good all-around tight end, and probably the best in this year’s draft class.  His blocking is superb to most of the tight ends this year, and he does a great job at staying on his block till the whistle.  His outstanding size and long arms help him in both blocking and receiving.  Pettigrew possesses very soft hands and can act as a security blanket for his quarterback, but once he has the ball, he is extremely powerful and could cause damage to people trying to tackle him.

Why I’m staying away: Pettigrew is not a big play threat.  He just doesn’t have elite speed to stretch the field.  Because of this, I’m skeptical as to where he might go in the draft.  He’s also had some off-the-field issues after getting arrested in February of 2008 for assaulting a police officer.

Impact on the Bucs roster: So the Bucs trade their 2nd round pick this year and a 5th round pick next year for Kellen Winslow and you think they’re going to draft a tight end?  That makes me chuckle!!!  However, with how crazy this offseason has been, would it be that farfetched?  Um…yes!!!!!

NFL Comparison: Jason Witten:  Pettigrew is a kind of throw-back tight end.  Much like Witten, Pettigrew doesn’t have elite speed, but is so good at everything that comes with being a tight end.

Shawn Nelson – Southern Miss.
6’5’’ – 240 – 4.56
2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: You have to love Nelson’s combination of size and speed.  Add in a pair of soft reliable hands, and you’ve got yourself a heck of a threat in the pass game.  He’s also a tough player who gives very good effort blocking for the run game.  His technique is very good, and his frame is such that he would be able to add to it over the course of his career.

Why I’m staying away: Nelson has to do a better job of maintaining weight and needs to get much stronger.  There are times when he tends to be physically dominated at the line of scrimmage.  Also, his route running is only average, and tends to rely mainly on his physical ability.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Well, I see Nelson going somewhere in round 2.  Because of that, I don’t see him in a Buccaneer uniform.  Of course, if the Bucs brought him in, Alex Smith would be let go.

NFL Comparison: Dustin Keller:  Much like Keller, Nelson has superb pass catching ability, but must improve his strength.  However, as the Jets found out last year, it’s nice to have a threat like Keller at the tight end position.  I can see Nelson being considered right around where Keller went last year, at the very top of the 2nd round.

Jared Cook – South Carolina
6’5’’ – 246 lbs – 4.50
2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: This guy’s a big play waiting to happen.  I guess that goes with a tight end that averages over 15 yards a reception for his collegiate career.  He has more than enough speed to stretch the middle of a defense or take a short pass and break it for a long play.  Cook also has soft hands and is a reliable target for his quarterback.  For Cook, he might be just scraping his potential.

Why I’m staying away: I’m worried that Cook might turn into a “workout warrior”.  What I mean by that is that he measured so well at the combine, but will that translate to the field.  He offers no help in blocking.  Of course, he comes from a Steve Spurrier offense, so you must take him with a grain of salt.  Cook also relies heavily on his natural talent and doesn’t possess good technique as a tight end.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Even if the Bucs needed a tight end, I’d still stay away from Cook.  I believe there are much better all-around tight ends than him.  

NFL Comparison: Vernon Davis:  Vernon Davis was flying under the radar before his combine performance.  Since then, he hasn’t done much in the NFL.  Actually, he has been quite the disappointment.  Well, Cook is following down a very similar path, and that would scare me off from drafting him.

James Casey – Rice
6’3’’ – 246 – 4.78
3rd – 4th Round

Why I’m taking him: Casey is a very interesting prospect.  His production last year was outstanding.  He ended 2008 with 111 receptions for 1,329 yards and 13 touchdowns.  He is a mature player as he spent 3 years in the Chicago White Sox minor league system before finally attending Rice.  He is a big time threat as a tight end or H-back.  Casey has excellent hands and runs very nice routes.  Casey’s an extremely hard worker on and off the field.  Actually, he is a triple major in Economics, Sports Management, and Managerial Studies.  By the way, he’s got a 3.38 GPA at Rice.

Why I’m staying away: Casey lacks elite speed to help him get open in the NFL.  He’s also just average as a blocker.  I believe that’s it.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I really like Casey as a 3rd or 4th round pick.  He’s not as flashy as other tight ends this year, but he does so many things well.  He’s got great character and is a leader to boot.  I know the Bucs don’t need a tight end, but I wouldn’t be upset one bit if they took a flyer on Casey.  I think he’d be an upgrade over both Alex Smith and Jerramy Stevens.

NFL Comparison: Dallas Clark:  Much like Dallas Clark, I see Casey making his home in the slot…That’s what she said.  Both Clark and Casey run nice crisp routes and both have excellent hands.  This would be the best way to use Casey.

Cornelius Ingram – Florida
6’4’’ – 245 lbs – 4.68
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him:  Ingram’s my big time mismatch.  He is a wide receiver trapped in a tight ends body.  That can be viewed as a good thing or a bad thing.  His soft hands and excellent body control help him to catch any ball that’s thrown his way.  His good speed and quickness helps him to get open and not have to make acrobatic catches.  Ingram can definitely stretch the middle of a defense, and still has a down of upside.

Why I’m staying away: Well, what is he?  Is he a tight end or a receiver?  He doesn’t bring anything as a blocker.  Hell, the Gators mainly used him in the slot, not on the line of scrimmage.  Ingram is not nearly as strong or physical as he needs to be, and he actually seems to shy away from contact.

Impact on the Bucs roster: The potential is there for Ingram, I just don’t think the potential is there for the Bucs to take him.  From everything that Raheem the Dream and Marky Mark Dominik have said is that the Bucs want to get more physical.  If that’s the case, I’m sure there will be other players available that fit that description in the 3rd round.  That’s saying Ingram falls to the 3rd round.  I’m sure there will be atleast one team that loves his potential.

NFL Comparison: Benjamin Watson:  Watson has been a nice threat in the Patriots pass game, but he’s never been much more than that.  I see Ingram having a similar career to Watson, as both players will make their living in the slot…That’s what she said!!!!!

Travis Beckum – Wisconsin
6’3’’ – 243 lbs – 4.61 (Pro Day Number)
3rd – 4th Round

Why I’m taking him: In my opinion, Beckum is one of the best receiving threats at the tight end position in this year’s draft.  He has plenty of speed, runs good routes, and catches the ball extremely well.  Beckum is a mismatch no matter who’s lined up on him.  He is too athletic for linebackers, and too big for corners and safeties.

Why I’m staying away: Durability is my main concern with Beckum.  He’s dealt with neck, back, and leg injuries the past two years at Wisconsin.  He also doesn’t bring much as a blocker.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m not so sure as a 3rd round pick, but I’d love a guy like Beckum in the 4th round if he drops.  As long as he stays healthy, he is a big time playmaker at the tight end position.  If the Bucs drafted him, it would more than likely spell the end for Alex Smith in a Bucs uniform.

NFL Comparison: Kellen Winslow:  Winslow is a little bigger than Beckum, but both are big time receiving threats at the tight end position.  They also have both dealt with their fair share of injuries.  Winslow might be just a tad more physical than Beckum.

Chase Coffman – Missouri
6’6’’ – 244 lbs – DNP
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: You have to love Coffman’s production while at Missouri.  In 2008, as a tight end, Coffman racked up 90 receptions for 987 yards and 10 touchdowns.  Obviously, his hands are great.  He also runs crisp routes, and knows how to get open.  His height gives him a big advantage over smaller defenders.  Coffman is the type of tight end that finds the soft spot in a zone, and becomes a security blanket for the quarterback. 

Why I’m staying away: I have a couple problems with Coffman.  First, he brings next to nothing as a blocker.  He might get in the way of a defender, but that’s all.  That means he is only a threat in the passing game.  Well, Coffman lacks elite speed to stretch the middle of a defense.  I’m not sure Coffman will ever be anything more than a solid backup tight end.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Coffman is definitely not what the Bucs need, and they should not even consider him. 

NFL Comparison: Ben Utecht:  Ben Utecht was a solid backup in Indianapolis for years before becoming the starting tight end in Cincinnati last year.  Much like Coffman, Utecht is a nice receiving tight end who lacks ideal speed, and is not a very good blocker.  Both could be decent players, but I wouldn’t expect much more.

Having Michael Vick playing 80 miles from Raymond James Stadium will not help Bucs ticket sales

NFL and Bucs writer Chris Harry, of the Orlando Sentinel, explains why Michael Vick is a likely candidate to play quarterback for the new United Football League team in Orlando.

The four-team league will play its inaugural seven-week season in October and November. Jim Haslett will coach Orlando.

Joe read this and thought about the Bucs’ struggles to sell tickets this past season and how the economic recesssion is impacting ticket sales leaguewide.

Regardless of what is thought of Vick, people will pay to go see him play in Orlando. Heck, Joe would even shell out the money when the weather cools down in October.

Vick in Orlando can only hurt the Bucs’ bottom line.