Hey Bucs Nation. Sorry it has taken me a while to get back to you as I have been stationed in Seoul, South Korea where it has been hard for me to get American football, especially my Buccaneers. I had an interesting phone conversation with a friend of mine who writes for the Bleacher Report and we discussed the possibilities for the Buccaneers next head coach and he brought up an interesting name; Marc Trestman.

For those of you who are saying who, let me point you to the Montreal Alouettes, of the Canadian Football League, web page to refresh your memory of the exploits of Marc Trestman. (http://en.montrealalouettes.com/page/marc-trestman) Let me share a couple of snippets’ to whet your appetite from their home page.

"He began his coaching career in 1981 with the University of Miami while attending law school there. In 1983, after passing the Florida Bar exam, he was named the Hurricanes’ quarterbacks coach and Miami won the National Championship that year, defeating the Nebraska Cornhuskers 31-30 in the Orange Bowl."

"In 1995, he was hired by George Seifert as the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. In Trestman’s first season with the then-defending Super Bowl champions, the 49ers ranked first in the NFL with 457 points for, 644 pass attempts and 4,779 passing yards. They also ranked second with 391.1 total yards per game, while legendary receiver Jerry Rice set an NFL record with 1,848 yards on 122 catches, scoring 15 touchdowns along the way. Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young made the Pro Bowl after throwing for 3,200 yards and 20 touchdowns."

"In 2001, Jon Gruden brought Trestman back to California as a senior offensive assistant with the Oakland Raiders. The 2002 Raiders led the NFL in total offense with 389.8 yards per game and 279.7 passing yards per encounter. Quarterback Rich Gannon was good on 418 of his 618 passes for a completion rate of 67.6 per cent that season while registering 10 games of 300 or more passing yards, and at one point completing 21 consecutive passes in a game."

Get the picture? Granted he would definitely need to shore-up the defense, but with two Grey Cup Championships out of three tries in 7 years, why not? Your thoughts.

The 2010 NFL season is upon us and many teams are dealing with multiple injuries, holdouts and suspensions to key players.  Eli Manning of the New York Giants suffered a lacerated forehead that required 13 stitches. Vincent Jackson of the San Diego Chargers is holding out of training camp and Ben Rothliesberger of the Pittsburgh Steelers is suspended for at least the first four games of the season.

These players as well as others are valuable members to their perspective ballclub and some may argue that they are their teams “Most Indispensible Players”.  With the recent injury to Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Josh Freeman, do Tampa Bay faithful believe that he is the one player that they cannot afford to lose this season?  Is Josh Freeman the “Most Indispensible Buccaneer”?

Most indispensible Buccaneer (player) is someone that if missing from the lineup will give the opposing team the opportunity to exploit the perceived weakness of their opponent.  Who do you think are perceived to be Tampa Bay’s “MIB” on offense and defense?

Jeff Faine – Missed the first quarter of the 2009 season. The Bucs started Sean Mahan in Faine’s absence and promptly released Mahan upon Faine’s return.

Tanard Jackson – Missed the first four games of the 2009 season. Opposing teams torched the Bucs in the air and on the ground during his suspension.

Donald Penn – Threatened to hold out for the season if he was not tendered a new contract. He is believed to be needed to protect Josh Freeman’s blind side.

Barrett Rudd – Led the team in tackles last season. He is also looking for a long-term contract.

Mike Williams – Already being considered a fantasy sleeper and quarterback Josh Freeman’s go to guy.

Gerald McCoy – This year’s third overall draft pick who is expected to stop the bleeding in the opposing team run game.

Kellen Winslow Jr. – Led the team in receptions last year. Surgically repaired knees are always a concern.

Josh Freeman – Franchise quarterback?

Let me know if there is someone I missed or if that “MIB” is not on the roster just yet.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will hold a news conference on Wednesday June 16, 2010 to announce who will be added to the Ring of Honor this year.

Last year Lee Roy Selmon was the first player to be selected. Being that Selmon is the first and only Buccaneer who is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, that was a very easy selection.

I do not believe it will be Derrick Brooks since he have not officially retired. So, if it will not be Brooks, you could eliminate Warren Sapp, John Lynch, Mike Alstott and any one from 1999-2004 because they will not or should not get in before Brooks.

Who do you think it would be?

As I check around the blogosphere for any positive NFL news a question kept arising about one of our most beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneer, Ronde Barber. The conversations surround whether or not he is a Hall of Famer.

When sportswriters talk about future HOF players for the Bucs the names of Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks are almost always started off with “future Hall of Famer.” Not once have I read or heard that about Barber. Before I chime in with my take, let’s see what some of the sportswriters have to say about this.

Pat Kirwin, who was a former Tampa Bay Buccaneer area scout and is now a Senior Analyst for the NFL.Com, believes that Barber will come up short on the balloting. Kirwin states that Barber has made five Pro Bowls in his 13-year career, in which he has 37 interceptions, 104 passes defended and 11 forced fumbles. Kirwin believes that it’s been a fine career for Barber, but it might not be enough.

Kirwin, however, does not mention Barber’s 25 sacks, which is a huge accomplishment for a cornerback. On the flip side, Kirwin mentions Charles Woodson as being “close” to the Hall of Fame with 11.5 sacks.   The difference of Woodson being “close” and Barber being “distant” is Woodson’s  Defensive Player of the Year award which would give him a slight edge over Barber.

Pat Yasinskas of ESPN had an interesting take on the subject: “ This may not be the answer Tampa Bay fans want to hear, but I don’t think Ronde Barber is a future Hall of Famer. Just my honest opinion. I think he’s been a very good player for a very long time. But I don’t think he’s ever been a dominant player."

"Also, I think Barber was fortunate to have Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp and John Lynch around him for much of his career and they made all the players around them look better. I think Brooks and Sapp is automatic Hall of Famers and I think Lynch has a chance to join them. I think Barber’s been a very good player, but not a Hall of Famer.”

Continue reading this post »

Aaron Schatz of ESPN Insider and David Gardner of ESPN Football Outsiders took a look at players who had the most missed/broken tackles during the 2009 NFL season.  The Football Outsiders staff reviewed every game from last season to come up with this alarming stat.

The Insider and Outsiders classified broken tackles as “one of several events: "Plays with Broken Tackle" is the number of plays with at least one broken tackle. Either the ball carrier escapes from the grasp of the defender, or the defender is in good position for a tackle but the ball carrier jukes him out of his shoes. If the ball carrier sped by a slow defender who dived and missed, that did not count as a broken tackle.’’ They also point out that it was also possible for there to be multiple broken tackles on one play.

With a 3-13 record, three members of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were the worst tacklers in the NFL last year. Under the broken tackle definition, Tampa Bay safety Sabby Piscitelli led the league in broken tackles with 19. Teammate Ronde Barber finished second with 16. Tampa Bay safety Tanard Jackson, who missed the first four games of the 2009 NFL season wasn’t too far behind with 10.

The Buccaneer defense, as a whole, finished second in the league with 94 broken tackles finishing ahead of the Detroit Lions who had 105 and behind the Indianapolis Colts who whiffed 91 times. On the offensive side, the Buccaneers only made opponents missed a grand total of 41 times which was worst in the league trailing only the Green Bay Packers with 44 and the Detroit Lions with 48. The Carolina Panthers offense lead the league with 117! ( Deangelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart had something to do with that)

When the Buccaneer secondary weren't too busy missing tackles, the safeties, Piscitelli, Jermaine Phillips and Jackson were trying to trying to cover up the play of cornerbacks Elbert Mack and Barber. With the addition of Sean Jones and third round pick Myron Lewis of Vanderbilt and the return of E.J. Biggers from the IR, Piscitelli will likely lose his job to Jones while the undersized Mack will be fighting for a roster spot.

Barber is heading into the final year of his contract. Piscitelli was a second round pick during the Jon Gruden era. Raheem Morris and staff do not have a vested interest in him just like they did not have an interest in wide receiver Dexter Jackson, who was also a second round pick but was released after one season. I believe the Bucs will hang on to Sabby for at least one more season to see if he has progressed.

If Barber and Piscitelli can rotate and play nickel, that would take some of the pressure off the safeties and also keep Mack off the field. With the addition of Jones, Lewis, Biggers, Jackson and Talib, the pieces are falling in place to have a young, aggressive, ball-hawking, talented, sure tackling secondary for years to come.

If you were one of the teams that picked in the top ten of this year’s draft, like my Buccaneers, your team was pretty wretched last year. You would figure teams like the Rams, Lions, Browns, Raiders and Bills, who are perennial top 10 drafters would get tired of doing it year in and year out.

So, with that in mind, will these teams, and others, get off the snide and add some new additions to this dubious list? If new draftees and free agents spring eternal hope for these teams in the upcoming 2010 season how will these top ten teams “Dodge A Top 10 Draft Pick in 2011?”

St. Louis Rams

With the overall number one pick of quarterback Sam Bradford and the pick of a first round talent in OT Roger Saffold to help keep Bradford upright, things may be looking up for St. Louis. Well, not exactly. Bradford will sit behind A.J. Feeley and the Rams were not major players in free agency. Look for the Rams to be back in the top ten in the 2011 draft.

Detroit Lions

The Lions drafted a playmaker on the defensive line, running back and defensive back field. This is possibly the Lions second good draft in a row. This may be the year that the work the Lions are doing with their high picks will pay off.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs used their first two picks on defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Price. They got a penetrating three-technique beast in McCoy and a space-eating nose tackle in Price. The Bucs need to speed up the development of 1st year quarterback Josh Freeman to keep up in the NFC South. Supplying Freeman with two wide outs, Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams, is a good start for the Bucs. With a softer schedule and a defense run by Head Coach Raheem Morris in his second year, look for the Bucs to be vastly improved. Odds are that they will pick in the top ten next year.

Washington Redskins

Washington traded for quarterback, Donovan McNabb who may have a say in the Redskins chances of playing their way out of the top 10 selections next year. With a new head coach and coaching staff and learning a new defensive scheme, look for Washington to be back on this list while the talented Cowboys, Giants and Eagles fight for the top spot.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs had so many needs to fill, like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but it seemed like they drafted the best player available during their draft call. Eric Berry may save them a dozen or so touchdowns and Dexter McCluster may keep defenses honest from stacking the box for Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. With the possibility of three additional wins that Berry, Jones and McCluster may supply, the Chiefs may still have a Top Ten pick next year.  

Seattle Seahawks

Every post draft analysis that I read believe the Seahawks have a chance to win the NFC West this season. I don’t buy that. Although their draft filled some specific needs with the picks of Russell Okung, Golden Tate and Earl Thomas to go along with the acquisition of LenDale White and Leon Washington, It will be a rebuilding year in Seattle. Just like in Washington, Seattle’s new head coach Pete Carroll and coaching staff, will have some growing pains and will probably have a top ten pick next year as well.

Cleveland Browns

The Browns acquired CB Sheldon Brown from the Eagles, and then used their first pick on Joe Haden who was considered the best cornerback in the draft. Earlier during the off-season they acquired Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace and in the third round drafted Colt McCoy. If one of these three quarterbacks step-up, and after finishing strong helping to secure head coach Eric Mangini’s job, there seem to be some stability in Cleveland, but look for them to pick in the Top Ten next year.

Oakland Raiders

The Raiders know they won't have a top-10 pick next year, because they dealt their 2011 first-rounder to New England for Richard Seymour. Drafting Rolando McClain, two offensive tackles, releasing quarterback Jamarcus Russell and acquiring Jason Campbell is a good start for moving down in next year’s draft. (New England that is) 

Buffalo Bills

The Bills came into the draft without a quarterback and left without one. They did however pick up a dynamic running back in CJ Spiller. Given their glaring needs at quarterback and on the offensive line, it's hard to see what the Bills are thinking, or how they plan to break their streak of 11 straight years without a playoff appearance.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars record three quarters into the season stood at 7-5 and was in the hunt for a playoff slot in 2009 but something happened on the way to the post-season. The Jaguars lost their last four games to tumble into this year's draft top ten.

With the signing of Aaron Kampman, trading Quentin Groves to the Raiders and the use of their top two picks on defensive linemen, tells you what they think the problem was. They had just 14 sacks all year as a team.

So, my Northern Florida brothers picked Tyson Alualu? At No. 10? Given the Jags' financial concerns, Alualu is a pick that makes you think they know they can sign him at a discount -- not one that makes you think they can escape the top ten.

Photos accompanying this article can be found at:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/393557-dodging-a-top-10-draft-pick-in-2011#page/1

Since the latest NFL realignment in 2002, in the NFC South, the team that finished in last place in the division the previous year went on to make the playoffs the following season.

Let's take a quick history of the NFC South and see if we can find some reason, any reason, why the 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers will try to go from worst to first. The last place team has won the division in 7 of the past 8 seasons. The Carolina Panthers broke the string in 2008 finishing 12-4. (2006-7 the Panthers finished second)

All four NFC South teams have made a Super Bowl appearance. The Atlanta Falcons were in Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999 as a member of the NFC West.

Tidbit: The Falcons played the Denver Broncos and quarterback John Elway who became the oldest player ever to be named Super Bowl MVP.

Last year was the first year in team history that the Falcons have ever had back-to-back winning seasons. Look for the Falcons to have a winning season again this season.

The Carolina Panthers played the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004.

Tidbit: The Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was named Most Valuable Player for the second time in three years. He also set a Super Bowl record for the most pass completions with 32.

This was the first and only time the Panthers played in a Super Bowl. Look for the Panthers to go 8-8 this season.

The New Orleans Saints beat the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV this year. Their run to the Super Bowl captured the attention of football fans everywhere.

Tidbit: This game received the highest Nielsen Co. overnight ratings in the past 23 years, meaning that it was the most-watched Super Bowl of all-time. Look for the Saints to break the Super Bowl curse and at least make the playoffs this season.

The Buccaneers beat the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII and were led by the league's top defense, as they won the NFC South title with the team's best ever record, 12-4, and went on to blow-out Head Coach Jon Gruden's former team, the Oakland Raiders who had the league's number 1 offense.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New Orleans Saints are the only two NFC South teams to win a Super Bowl.

Now, there has never been a team in the NFC South who has earned back-to-back postseason appearances since the division started back in 2002. Both Atlanta and Carolina made the playoffs in 2008, but both teams fell short in reaching the postseason in 2009. New Orleans will have a shot to repeat this year.

That brings me to the 2009 NFC South last place team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Do I actually believe that they can become the latest worst to first success story in the NFC South for the upcoming season? No! Not really!

But, as history has shown throughout the NFC South, when no one is expecting it, it can be done. Will it be done this year? I doubt it, but hey, that's what being a true fan is all about. Expecting the worst and hoping for the best.

But I do believe with the recent draft picks, the purging of their roster and the so-called softer schedule, they will win more than three games. Will they finish in last place again? Probably so, but hey, they’re still my team and I am predicting them to be better than last season. In May I’m predicting a 5-11 or 6-10 season. Your thoughts.

Pictures associated with this article can be seen at: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/390353-tampa-bay-buccaneers-from-worst-to-first-in-the-nfc-south?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=share

Let’s go beyond the first-round pick of Gerald McCoy. This pick may go overlooked because it was a no-brainer and everyone expected it. As I looked at some of the bigger names who were drafted April 23-24, 2010, outside of the first round, many of those players may not start for their teams. 

Then, I turned my attention to the draft of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Barring a total catastrophic training camp, Tampa Bay could start at least five rookies, to include the punter Brent Bowden.

The Buccaneers may start two rookie defensive tackles in Gerald McCoy and Brian Price. There is a good possibility that receiver Arrelious Benn a second-round draft pick and Mike Williams, a fourth-round pick will start on offense. 

Cornerback Myron Lewis, a third round selection out of Vanderbilt, may not start but will see a considerable amount of time at the nickel back position which will make it six players out of nine drafted to suit-up and have considerable playing time against the Cleveland Browns Sunday September 12, 2010.

Two of the final three picks will probably play on Special Teams. Cody Grimm and Dekoda Watson are almost certain to dress out on game day. Only Eric Lorig, the Bucs final pick in the 7th round may be put on the PUP with a torn pectoral muscle.

In the 30-plus years of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, there have never been so many draft picks that could possible start or play as an entire draft class in one season.

After a 3-13 finish in their first year on the job, there were plenty of assumptions about whether GM Mark Dominick and head coach Raheem Morris would be welcomed back by an ownership that is under pressure to deliver a better product in 2010.

McCoy and Price are expected to fortify the middle of the defense, which was a major weak spot last season as the Bucs ranked last in the league against the run, and aid in the pass rush as well.

If Benn and Williams can even come close to grasping the playbook by the season opener, their overall physical talents make them better than Michael Clayton and Maurice Stovall. Benn and Williams can quickly become popular targets for Josh Freeman.

Throw them out there with tight end Kellen Winslow and Sammie Stroughter as the slot receiver and you have a group of receivers that’s not only incredibly young, but also a very talented group that could make a lot of noise in the NFC with the type of schedule they have this year.

The Bucs are still in the rebuilding mode and are slowly accumulating pieces that they hope will spark a resurrection. Re-establishing the Bucs as a defensive-minded team is a task that drives Dominik and Morris.

That's what they want the Buccaneers to be for many years. Dominik and Morris felt like the defense began moving in the right direction when Morris took over defensive coordinator duties in late November. It was a risky strategy for Dominik, who did not spend big money on free agents, to rely on the development of Freeman, McCoy, Price and several other young players to deliver the results necessary to allow him and Morris to continue in their jobs beyond 2010. Buccaneer fans hope that this path is the right one.

To see picture associated with this article go to: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/388437-buccaneers-best-draft-class-ever-not-just-gerald-mccoy

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were initially criticized for drafting two defensive tackles in Rounds 1and 2. By the end of the fourth round they had acquired two wide receivers as well.

There is a very good chance that these four players will line up and play against the Cleveland Browns in Raymond James Stadium on opening day.

In retrospect, let's take a look at some of the teams who picked two players that play the same position on draft day between rounds 1 through 4 that may start or play on opening day.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Gerald Mc Coy and Brian Price - McCoy has outstanding quickness for a defensive tackle. He should be a disruptive run-defender and a productive pass-rusher. There’s a 100% chance that he will start for the Bucs.

Price moves very well for his size as well and has the potential to become a dynamic run defender. He can also make an impact rushing the passer. If Price does not start for the Bucs, he will definitely rotate with Roy Miller.

Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams - Benn's production suffered because of inconsistent quarterback play at Illinois.

He has the strength, athletic ability and hands to develop into an effective No. 1 wideout who can produce additional yards after the catch. Should be a starter.

Williams has been considered the third-most-talented receiver in this year's class.  Williams has great size, and above-average ball skills, and he could become a big-time playmaker for the Buccaneers. He has been considered as one of the steals of this draft. If he does not start, he will rotate with Reggie Brown, Maurice Stovall or Michael Clayton.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Tyson Alualu - Is considered very active and explosive, with tremendous upper-body strength to quickly shed the block.

Although he does not have great initial quickness, he can beat blockers to the point of attack and penetrate to the pocket. Being the #10 pick in the draft, you would think that he would start.

D'Anthony Smith - Smith is considered to have above-average athletic ability and can move well laterally for his size.

Smith is also an above average pass-rusher with a wide assortment of moves. Look for Smith to rotate on the defensive line.

Denver Broncos

Demarius Thomas - Thomas brings size and speed to the wideout position and will be an immediate deep threat for the Broncos.

While at Georgia Tech, he came from a triple-option offense and is considered a bit raw as a route runner, but his size and ball skills provide him with great upside.

If his foot injury is healed, look for Thomas to start.

Eric Decker - Decker has a good combination of size and overall athleticism.

He is deemed limited in his ability to stretch the field, but he shows exceptional toughness and ball skills to become a solid possession receiver for the Denver Broncos.

If his foot injury is healed, look for Decker to rotate at the wide receiver position.

New England Patriots

Rob Gronkowski - The biggest concern with Gronkowski is his durability; he missed all of the 2009 season with a back injury.

If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to develop into a complete tight end. He has shown the ability to make plays down the seam, get open underneath and ward off defenders as an inline blocker.

If his back injury has healed, look for Gronkowski to rotate with Algee Crumpler and Aaron Hernandez.

Aaron Hernandez - Hernandez is considered one of the better pass-catching tight ends in this year's draft.

He will bring an immediate receiving threat to the Patriots' offense, while his best attribute is picking up additional yardage after the catch.

Look for Hernandez to rotate with Algee Crumpler and Rob Gronkowski.

Carolina Panthers

Jimmy Clausen - Clausen has the arm strength, size and confidence to develop into an effective opening day starter.

He doesn't have to worry about making the transition to an NFL offense, either, after playing for Charlie Weis at Notre Dame he is probably more game ready than any quarterback from this past draft.

Look for Clausen to compete for opening day snaps with Matt Moore and Tony Pike.

Tony Pike - Although Pike was chosen in the sixth round, I put him in this debate because he also has the opportunity to dress out on opening day.

The Panthers have Matt Moore, Jimmy Clausen and Pike to compete for the starting quarterback position. Stranger things have happened during quarterback battles.

Look for Pike to dress out and be the third string quarterback.

Brandon LeFell - LaFell may have some of the biggest upside in this year's receiving class.

He has excellent size and does an outstanding job using his body to shield defenders from the ball.  He should be a great compliment to Steve Smith on opening day.

Armanti Edwards - Edwards played quarterback in college but will probably play slot receiver for the Panthers.

He has the athleticism and experience to conduct a Wildcat package, option or return specialist. Look for him to play on opening day.

Oakland Raiders

Edwin Veldheer and Bruce Campbell - At more than 6-foot-8, Veldheer may start at left tackle for the Raiders.

He has great upside to become a better-than-average NFL left tackle.

Campbell has elite potential as a right tackle or guard and was considered worth the risk in round four.

Although he is regarded as a unpolished prospect, he is a far better athlete than football player. He will dress out for opening day.

Baltimore Ravens

Ed Dickson - Dickson is considered one of the better pass-catching tight ends in this year's draft.

He has exceptional top-end speed to stretch the field with ideal body control and ball skills.

He still needs to develop as a run-blocker but would definitely contribute in the passing game. He will share snaps with Todd Heap.

Dennis Pita - Pitta is a savvy zone-beater who should develop into a dangerous red zone threat for Joe Flacco on opening day.

He will be a part of the Ravens tight end rotation.

Will Teams Double Their Pleasure?

There you have it. Seven teams who doubled their 2010 Draft Picks at the same position for various reasons.

It would be a shock if any of these players do not dress for opening day for their respective teams. (Minus injury)

I feel most of them will start or have considerable playing time to start the season.  Out of these rookies, which team will have the most participants on opening day?

Pictures from this article can be seen at: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/386973-2010-nfl-draft-2-for-1

Ok, "What If" the Bucs and Rams swap the number 1 and 3 picks in the upcoming draft straight up? My good friend Tom Edrington of Bleacher Report, bought up the possibility in his featured story "NFL Draft 2010: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Moving Up To Grab Ndamukong Suh?"

There have been rumblings coming out of Detroit that the Lions may select "SUHperman" with the number 2 pick. There have also been some rumbling coming out of Tampa that the Bucaneers are not completely sold on Gerald Mc Coy. Let's take a look at some of the possible options the Buccaneers have to move up or down in the upcoming draft.

1. SUH-Ve- Neer!

For the Buccaneers, the swap would mean more ticket sells, a franchise defensive cornerstone, a disruptive force in the middle of the defensive line, and a returning fan base. The Buccaneers were in the Albert Haynesworth sweepstake last year, so the money is there.

For the Rams, they can still get their signal caller without having to pay the number one overall top dollar price for their future signal caller. Win, Win!

2. Joe Haden

If the Bucs stay at number three, Suh is gone and they cannot find a partner to trade out, Haden will be one of three possibilities to draft.

Raheem Morris spent a considerable amount of time with Haden at Florida's Pro Day. Being a defensive back coach, you have to believe Morris liked what he saw.

3. Eric Berry

Again, if the Bucs stay at number three, Suh is gone and they cannot find a partner to trade out, Berry would also be one of the three draft possibilities.

If this move occurs, Berry would probably play nickel with Ronde Barber staying at corner or Sean Jones moving to nickel and a tandem of Berry and Tanard Jackson at free safety.

4. Russell Okung

The third possibility if the Bucs stay at number three, Suh is gone and they cannot find a partner to trade out, Okung would should be the last of the three possibilities to draft.

Resigning Donald Penn, picking Okung and move him to right tackle and regulating Jeremy Trueblood to back up will give the Bucs book-end tackles for years to come.

5. Gerald McCoy

Now, if the status quo stays the same, Gerald Mc Coy may be an excellent pick for the Buccaneers and this drill may be for not!.

What if...The Buccaneers trade out of the Number 3 Slot?

6. Dez Bryant anyone? Depending on how far they trade down, this would definitely be a weapon to get the ball moving downfield.

Okay, he made a mistake and lied to the NCAA about his relationship with Deion Sanders. "SO!" He's done his time, so let's move on.

This would also be a great start to luring fans back to the stadium.

7. Brian Price

Again, depending on how far they trade down, this would definitely be a first round alternative for not getting Suh.

Price, Tim Crowder, Roy Miller, Kyle Moore and Michael Bennett may give the Bucs a somewhat respectable front line to stop the run and add pressure to the quarterback.

Cold Buccaneer Games?

Every year the phrase "The outcome of this draft could be the Buccaneers future" never sounded so true as to the outcome of their selections in this year’s draft! Will it be another cold January game with empty seats? So, it begs the question "What If.... they swap picks?"

To see the pictures associated with this article go to:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/381940-just-inrams-bucs-swap-picks

The NFL has confirmed that 16 draft eligible players have accepted their invitation to attend the upcoming NFL Draft in New York. The NFL neglected to say whether or not those players would be available for the first, second or both days of the draft. Enclosed are some notable omissions.

Note that these players or others may have declined the invitation for personal reasons. They are considered either first or second day selections on most draft boards.

Bruce Campbell OT Maryland - Was considered the workout darling of the Combine. Strength, speed and agility had him moving up most draft boards. Most Mock Drafts had him going to Oakland or San Francisco.

Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame - Very good possibility that he may be taken in the first round. Washington, Buffalo and San Francisco may have some interest should he fall into their laps in the first round.

Golden Tate WR Notre Dame - Some Mock Drafts have him going in the first round to teams like the Ravens, Jets and Bengals. Others have in going to St. Louis, Tampa Bay and Cleveland in the Second. Chances are he will go in one of these two rounds.

Jason Pierre-Paul DT South Florida - JPP have been seen in some mock drafts as high as #3 to Tampa Bay. The overall consensus has him falling to Tennessee at #16 which is still in the first round.

Kyle Wilson CB Boise State - After a stellar Senior Bowl and Combine, it was believed that Wilson could have past Joe Haden as the top Cornerback taken in the draft. He still has first round invite potential.

Rolando Mc Clain - Considered a top 20 pick. Not sure he was not invited to the draft party but several teams have him in their sites to include Jacksonville, New York Giants and Denver.

Tim Tebow QB Florida - Word was that Tebow was invited to the second day of the draft and then "poof", nothing. Does he have a fishing trip planned like Joe Thomas? I was also reminded that Tebow had to discuss this with his representatives. I'm still a Tebow fan and would like to see him there.

Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State - Not sure if his perceived personal issues have anything to do with him not being invited, but he is definitely a top ten talent that should be given consideration to join his peers on the big stage.

Taylor Mays FS Southern California - All I've read is what he can't do. Writers need to flip the script and write about what he can do and have accomplished. Give him a ticket to the big stage instead of Lamar Houston.

There you have it. Some notable (possible) snubs who should be considered to join their peers in New York City on Draft day. Everyone else is speculation. Chime in with your thoughts.

You can also see a slide presentation of this report at http://bleacherreport.com/articles/377815-possible-players-who-were-not-invited-to-new-york#page/1.

Here is something never before seen at the NFL Draft in New York, an increased number of players attending in person. The NFL announced the names of 16 draft eligible college football players who will be there April 22-24, 2010.

Now, the NFL has not stated whether the 16 names it confirmed compose the full list of players who will attend. So, without further adieu, let's go with the players who are confirmed.

Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska - Has been a consensus top five draft pick since day one. Suh has been targeted by the Rams, Lions, Buccaneers, Chiefs and Seahawks in most mock drafts. Chances are that he will not make it past Tampa Bay at the number 3 overall pick.

Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma - Considered being draft pick 1A or 1B depending on the needs of a DT for an NFL team. Burst, quickness, agility all describe the type of player a team will get with McCoy. If he is not taken by Detroit or Tampa Bay, it is believed that McCoy will not get past Seattle with the number 6 pick.

Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma - Bradford is considered the possible number 1 pick in this year’s draft. It is safe to say that if he does not go number one, Washington, Seattle or an unknown team will try to move up to take him. Bradford is also regarded as the number one QB prospect in the draft.

C. J. Spiller RB Clemson - The second fastest time running the 40 yard dash among running backs at the combine is considered the best running back prospect in this year’s draft. Look for Spiller to come off the board with Seattle, Jacksonville, San Francisco or no later than Minnesota.

Jahvid Best RB Cal - Although Best ran the fastest forty yard dash time among running backs, a serious neck injury may have some teams concerned. Not sure that he would be a first round selection, but if so, look for Miami, Minnesota, Houston, New York Giants or San Diego to take him in the first round

Joe Haden CB Florida - Don't let the 40 yard dash time at the Combine foul a team. Haden is a player. Some Mock Drafts have him going as high as # 3 to Tampa Bay! Interested teams would most likely be Cleveland, Jacksonville and San Francisco.

Brandon Ghee CB Wake Forest - Here's a sleeper for you. Not sure if Ghee is going to the draft on day one or day two. Most Mock Drafts have him going late second early third round. Interested teams would be Tampa Bay, Cleveland, Seattle, Baltimore, Houston and Green Bay.

Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State - Okung is considered to be the top OT prospect in the draft. Mock drafts have him slated as high as #2 to Detroit, #3 to Tampa Bay, #4 to Washington and #5 to Kansas City. It is believed that he will not go any lower than Seattle at Pick #6.

Brian Bulaga OL Iowa - Bulaga has been seen all over the Mock Draft place due to his versatility to play OT or OG. Kansas City, San Francisco and Pittsburgh may be a landing spot for him.

Trent Williams OT Oklahoma - Williams have been moving up several Mock boards and in some cases surpassed Russell Okung as the #1 OT in the draft. If Okung is taken, look for Williams to be the next OL taken in the draft. Possible landing spots include Washington, San Francisco, Pittsburgh and Detroit.

Lamar Houston DT Texas - Most Mock Drafts have Houston as a late second round pick. Not sure if he's in New York for day one or day 2 of the draft. Possible destination could be Indianapolis, New York Giants, New Orleans or Baltimore. (Cannot see him going in the first round, but stranger things have happened!)

Jared Odrick DT Penn State - Considered by some so-called experts to be the most Pro-Style ready defensive linemen, better than Suh and Mc Coy due to his technique and balance. Don't be surprised if Cleveland takes him with the # 6 overall pick. Other possible teams include Indianapolis, Baltimore or New Orleans.

Dan Williams DT Tennessee - Williams has been up and down the Mock Draft boards across the internet. Shall we pick a team that may be interested in his services? How about Miami with Jacksonville and Baltimore a good possible landing spot as well?

Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech - Morgan, a speed rusher off the end is coveted by several teams. A place that would be near and dear to his heart would be the Atlanta Falcons. Look for Tennessee, Baltimore, Indiana and Green Bay to look for his services as well.

Demarius Thomas WR Georgia Tech - Thomas will not be able to perform for scouts due to an injured foot. Seem like teams have enough tape on him to make a determination on where he should be slotted. Look for Baltimore, Green Bay, Dallas and possibly Minnesota to add him to the mix.

Eric Berry FS Tennessee - Considered being the most talented player in the draft. Look for Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Cleveland and Seattle to snatch him up within the first hour of the draft.

Here are the sixteen players that have accepted an invitation to the draft April 22-24. Most, if not all, of the players in this report will hear their names called on day one. I may be wrong about a couple, but stranger things have happened on draft day!

You can also see a slideshow presentation of these players at http://bleacherreport.com/articles/377772-welcome-to-new-york-players-attending-draft.

Several days ago I did an extensive Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7 round Mock Madness Draft with at least two picks and a sleeper. With all the recent trades and rumors swirling around mock boards throughout the internet, I have  narrowed down the possible selected individuals to be drafted by the Buccaneers to compete for a roster spot in 2010. Let's get started.

ROUND 1, Pick 3: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma. Ndamukong Suh could also be plugged in here as well depending on the selection of the St. Louis Rams and Detroit Lions.

SLEEPER: Joe Haden CB Florida or Eric Berry S Tennessee. If McCoy or Suh are off the board and the Buccaneers are not able to trade out of this position, look for the Bucs to pick up one of these two players.

ROUND 2, Pick 35: Demarius Thomas WR Georgia Tech or Arrelious Benn WR Illinois. Both are also considered possible first round selections or first pick in the second round by St. Louis. If not, look for the Bucs to pick up one or the other.

SLEEPER: Jerry Hughes LB TCU. Although Hughes is listed as a LB, He would be a great asset coming off the edge as a pass rusher.

ROUND 2, Pick 42: Kareem Jackson CB Alabama. Very good man coverage and tackler.

SLEEPER: Patrick Robinson CB Florida State.

ROUND 3, Pick 67: Dexter Mc Cluster RB Ole Miss. Offensive weapon with some much needed speed.

SLEEPER: Cory Wooten DE Northwestern or Alex Carrington DE Arkansas State

ROUND 4, Pick 101: Sergio Render G Virginia Tech. If Sears is not ready, here is his replacement

SLEEPER: Jacoby Ford WR Clemson. Deep threat that can stretch the field

ROUND 5 Pick 153: LeGarrette Blount RB Oregon. Can also be used as a fullback.

SLEEPER: Micah Johnson LB Kentucky. An all-around tackling machine. Can back-up Rudd.

ROUND 6, Pick 172: Ed Wang OT West Virginia. Will give Trueblood some competition.

SLEEPER: Myron Rolle S Florida State. Good value pick.

ROUND 7, Pick 210: George Selvie DT South Florida. This may be the steal of the draft.

Pick 217:  Any punter who has an average of 40 yards per punt! Bring them in and let them compete.

Pick 232: Vince Oghobaase DT Duke. Underrated, could make the team.

Pick 253: Freddie Barnes WR Bowling Green

Now that I have done the homework, this would be considered an excellent draft for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. You have a mixture of smarts (Rolle), speed, power and instincts that was lacking in last years squad. Even if the Buccaneers pick up a handful of these players, it would go a long way toward having them become more competitive for the 2010 season and years to come. Let's read your responses.

Mock Madness is upon us and due to the amount of mock drafts I have seen, I have decided to do one for my team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. I will pick 11 players and include all seven rounds. There will be some sleepers and some "what was he thinking about" moments, but all—in—all it's just wishful thinking to help turn my franchise around from a 3—13 season to a contender. Let's get started!

Round One, Pick Three: DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska - Unless the draft follows the script of Sam Bradford to the Rams, and Russell Okung to the Lions, this may not be a viable option. The Buccaneers have a 33 percent chance of landing this player.

DT Gerald McCoy, Oklahoma - Gerald McCoy is considered by some to be a better fit for the Buccaneers defense. If the St. Louis Rams do not take a quarterback with the first pick, chances are McCoy will be gone by the second pick.

Sleeper: DT Dan Williams,Tennessee - Dan Williams may be seen as a dark horse but he has quietly been moving up the charts. Look for Dan Williams to be Tampa Bay's possible pick if, with their No. 3 pick Suh or McCoy are taken and are unable to trade out of this spot.

Round Two, Pick 35: DB Devin McCourty, Rutgers - McCourty has been moving up the draft boards and has the possibility to be taken in the first round. Many mock drafts have predicted him possibly going to Baltimore. However, many more mock drafts have him going in the second round. He would be a great Buccaneer pickup.

WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois - Arrelious Benn have been dropping in a few mock drafts with the possibility that he could go to the Rams, who have the top pick in the second round. If he doesn't go to the Rams, he is a real possibility for the Bucs with pick 35.

Sleeper: OL Jerry Hughes,Texas Christian - Speed rusher. Run stopper. Sounds like Jerry Hughes is someone the Buccaneers could use. Although it is possible he maybe drafted in the first round, he may be available to Tampa Bay with the 35th overall pick.

Round Two, Pick 42: WR Demarius Thomas, Georgia Tech - Demarius Thomas' broken foot could be a blessing in disguise for the Buccaneers. I see him doing what Jonathan Stewart did for the Panthers coming off his surgical foot procedure; production at the wide receiver spot. Chances are, he will not be able to run for scouts prior to the draft, which may have contributed to him sliding in the draft.

DB Brandon Ghee, Wake Forest - Ghee is considered to be a very serviceable DB and would be a great choice for the Bucs if they miss out on McCourty.

Sleeper: OL Vladimir Ducasse, UMass - With the uncertain future of Aaron Sears, watch for the Buccaneers to take an offensive linemen to assist in protecting their franchise quarterback. Vladimir Ducasse is an excellent pick. He was an Associated Press All—American and stands at 6'5".

Round Three, Pick 67: DE Corey Wooten, Northwestern - Corey Wooten is considered to be a very good run stopper, currently, a Buccaneer need. At 6'6" and just over 300 pounds, imagine Drew Brees trying to throw over or around him.

DB Akwasi-Owusa-Ansah, Indiana University Pennsylvania - Overall speed is what the Buccaneers need and Ansah has speed to burn, running the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds. Ansah also doubled as a punt and kick returner.

Sleeper: OG Mike Johnson, Alabama - This may be a little high for Johnson, but a majority of Mark Ingram, the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner, runs came with big Mike pulling from his guard position, leading the way.

Sleeper No. 2: WR Jacoby Ford, Clemson - Speed is sorely missed with the Buccaneers and did you see him run at the Combine? He reminds you of DeSean Jackson of the Eagles.

Round Four, Pick 101: OT Kyle Calloway, Iowa - Kyle Calloway, would be an upgrade on the right side of the offensive line. Can we say possible replacement for Jeremy Trueblood?

FB Rashawn Jackson, Virginia - Rashawn Jackson can stay in the pocket for pass protection and catch the ball coming out of the backfield. At 6'1", 239 pounds, the bruising lead blocker who can also get the tough yardage, is what the Bucs need to keep the chains moving. The injury-prone B.J. Askew may be looking for another team if Jackson is available.

Sleeper: FS Myron Rolle, Florida State - With the signing of Sean Jones, the possibilities may be slim—to—none, but Myron Rolle is a great character individual and could not hurt the Bucs.

Round Five Pick 153: FB LeGarrette Blount, Oregon - LaGarrette Blount has passion and fire that was sorely missing from last year's Buccaneers squad. He is also a power back and a definite need in the Buccaneer back field. Say what you want about the Boise State incident, Blout made amends, did his time and is ready to move on.

OG Sergio Render, Virginia Tech - Another mauling guard? You bet! Sergio Render will create competition for Sears, Joseph and Zuttah.

Sleeper: WR Carlton Mitchell, South Florida - Mitchell could go as high as the third round or as late as the seventh round. That's why he's a sleeper here in the fifth round.

Round Six, Pick 172: DL George Selvie, South Florida - George Selvie was double—teamed most of last season and probably the reason why Pierre—Paul had so much success. He could be a steal this late in the draft.

Any Punter Over 40 YPA - The Bucs could really use a punter and consistent kicker on their roster. But will one be found in the draft? Let's bring some in and give them a shot.

Sleeper: DE/DT C.J. Wilson, East Carolina - C.J. Wilson can play tackle or end but versatility will determine if he will compete for a roster spot.

Round Seven, Picks 210, 217, 232, 253: WR Andre Roberts, The Citadel - After showing good hands and body control at the Senior Bowl, Andre Roberts may deserve a look. I consider him to be this year's version of Sammie Stroughter.

ILB Micah Johnson, Kentucky - Micah Johnson may not be available by the seventh round, but stranger things have happened. He is a sideline—to—sideline run stuffer and could be Rudd's back-up.

Best Available Player(s) - At this stage of the draft, it's the best available player(s) left on the board. In this Mock Madness draft, I was heavy DL, DB, OL and WR. Here's hoping some of these players will be available for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers come draft time. Chime in on your thoughts.

Editor's Note:  This content was originally published and created over at bleacherreport.com.  You can find their piece, which is done as a slideshow, right here.  Buc 'Em was contacted by the contirbutor who is the original author.  Please excuse our misundertanding.