Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp: Storylines, camp battles and expectations
By Larry Brake
Notable additions and departures
Tampa Bay surprised many fans by releasing fan favorite Gerald McCoy in May. McCoy’s release paved the way for the Buccaneers landing of Ndamukong Suh. Ironically, Suh was taken ahead of McCoy by the Detroit Lions in the 2010 NFL Draft as the second overall pick. McCoy was the third overall selection by the Buccaneers.
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Suh signed a one-year contract worth $9.25 million, according to Spotrac.com. Tampa Bay will not carry any dead money charges to their salary cap with the release of McCoy. Suh played in Super Bowl LIII with the Los Angeles Rams.
Journeyman quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has moved on to his eight NFL team. He started seven games last season but only guided the Buccaneers to only two wins. Blaine Gabbert was signed for insurance in case he is thrust into the starting quarterback position due to injury.
Gabbert played for Arians in Arizona during the 2017 season. He completed 95 passes for 1,086 yards with six touchdowns. He started five games that season. Gabbert should be familiar with the new Buccaneers offensive scheme.
Jason Pierre-Paul will be not participate during training camp. He is scheduled to be cleared to play in October after suffering an injury in a car accident. Hopefully, he will be fully recovered and ready to go.