Aaron Brooks agrees on two-year deal with Raiders.

Aaron Brooks can now hold his head up, the former New Orleans starter released last week after the Saints signed Drew Brees, has reached agreement with the Oakland Raiders on a two-year contract.

It is believed that Brooks will be getting close to $4-5 million per year. This is a nice payday for Brooks.

I think the Raiders made the right move. First they released a 33 year old quarterback (Kerry Collins), who was not worth the $9.2 Million they would have had to pay him.

Second they waited on the quarterback situation and did not make any crazy $60 million dollar deals (Drew Brees) to other free agent quarterbacks. Having the seven pick in the upcoming draft, and a real chance at drafting Vince Young, they played it smart.

Brooks, who is 29, is still young enough to have several productive seasons. He is a proven starter, and sure his numbers were down last year, but his goto guy Joe Horn was hurt for most of the season. Brooks may not be one of the elite quarterbacks in the league, but he can run, and can throw a long ball. He has been a starter for a number of years, and now he has Randy Moss. mmmmmmmmm This could be a sleeper pick for quarterback, what do you all think?

That said, he was arguably the best starting-caliber quarterback still available in the free agent pool. I was hoping the Bucs might sign him as a back-up. However, we could not afford the $4-5 million he is getting. Besides Chris Simms is not even getting $4 million this season. Anyway if you play fantasy football and are in a keeper league and you don't have one of the two top tier Qbs, Peyton Manning or a hurt Carson Palmer and by the time you pick the other good name qbs, such as Culpepper, Brady and McNabb are gone, remember Brooks has got Randy Moss, this could be a big sleeper.

Some Bucs, NFL, and Blog Updates.

BLOG NEWS:
I have done some thinking and I have decided that this blog will primarily be a Buccaneer Blog of course. However, I will start include all NFL, and fantasy football news to this blog. I have already changed for 3rd time my blog template. The left side bar will be for the Bucs and the right side bar will be for the NFL and other teams. I am doing this for a few reason:

1. Although I am a huge Bucs fan with season tickets, and my 4th bedroom is a buccaneer room, to include red and black painted walls, I still love the NFL.
2. I am a huge fantasy football guru and this gives me more to write about.
3. Not all my readers care about the bucs, so hopefully you will find stuff on your team here as well and feel more like leaving a comment.

So what do you think about the new blog?

BUCS NEWS:

Free-agent quarterback Brian Griese has agreed to a five-year deal with the Chicago Bears. I am so happy this guy is gone. I have never really been a fan of his. I was not happy when Brad Johnson was benched and Simms came in only to be injured, which gave Griese his moment in the spotlight. Griese could not make it in Miami, and if he was not injured this past season, he was going to be benched by Coach Gruden.

All I have to say is that in 1987, we had a Hall of Fame Quarterback and did not know it. We traded Steve Young to the 49ers and we all know the rest of the story. Now the year is 2006 and we resigned Chris Simms for another season. Maybe this is our Hall of Fame QB, then again maybe not. At least now we can find out.

Bucs resigned Tight End Dave Moore on Tuesday. He is in line to play his 13th season as a Buccaneer, which would be a new franchise record. Dave Moore is another beloved Buccaneer and best friend to Mike Alstott. For those that do not know Dave Moore and Mike Alstott are co-owners of www.islandwaygrill.com which is located just off Clearwater Beach.

It is a very nice restaurant where famous people have been known to eat at, such as Hulk Hogan. Who is also a huge Buccaneer fan and even a season ticket holder.

In other Buccaneer news San Francisco 49ers free agent fullback Fred Beasley visited One Buccaneer Place Tuesday.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Seneca Wallace will visit One Buccaneer Place on Wednesday, according to NFL Network. Wallace, who is a restricted free agent, is entering his fourth season in the NFL. The Bucs can only acquire the 5-foot-11, 196-pound quarterback if they sign him to an offer sheet that the Seahawks refuse to match. In return for Wallace’s services, the Seahawks would receive the Bucs’ fourth-round draft pick.

NFL NEWS:


Commissioner Paul Tagliabue is retiring from the NFL after 16 years in July.

"Paul has been an outstanding commissioner," Bucs owner and president
Malcolm Glazer said in a statement released by the team. "His leadership has
guided the league to unimaginable heights. Most importantly, he never forgot to
remind us that it was the fans and the game that should always come first."

Tagliabue has been in charge since 1989, when he succeeded Pete Rozelle,
Some of Tagliabue accomplishments are:

• Television contracts1990: Four-year, $3.6 billion contract (Inflation Value: $5.35 billion)2006: Contracts with four networks and DirecTV spanning as much as eight years is now worth $23.91 billion
• Gross League Revenues1990: $1.1 billion (Inflation Value: $1.63 billion)2006: $5.8 billion
• Franchise ValueTeam worth the most:1991: Miami Dolphins, $205 million, Financial World Magazine estimate (Inflation Value: $289 million)2005: Washington Redskins: $1.3 billion, Forbes estimate.
• Sponsorship Price To Be An Official NFL Sponsor:1990: $200,000 to $5 million2006: Gatorade pays $45 million per year, Sprint pays $120 million a year.
• Super Bowl CommercialPrice of a 30-second ad:1990: $700,0002006: $2.5 million

Ex-Buccaneer GM Rich McKay is on the short list to replace Tagliabue. Who do you think should be the new Commissioner? Would this spell DOOM for Jon Gruden, since the two did not get along and Gruden is accused of running McKay out of town?


Keyshawn Johnson is once again headed to the BIG APPLE, but this time it is with the Giants. If the numbers are right, he could sign with the Giants. Keyshawn thinks the Giants have a really good team and could contend for the Super Bowl. Besides, he loves the New York stage.


Unrestricted free agent Adam Vinatieri, who provided the winning field goals in two of the New England Patriots' three Super Bowl victories, has reached a contract agreement in principle with the Indianapolis Colts.


The Bills have given wideout Eric Moulds permission to seek a trade, according to Foxsports.com. Moulds has refused the team's attempts to renegotiate his contract several times and would count $10.8 million against the cap next season, which would be the last of his current deal.


The Jets finally got rid of disgruntled defensive end John Abraham on Tuesday. ESPN's Len Pasquarelli reports Gang Green shipped their franchise player to the Falcons in a three-way deal that netted them the 29th pick in April's draft, which had belonged to the Broncos. Denver shipped that pick and two middle-round picks, one in 2006 and a second in 2007, to Atlanta in exchange for the 15th overall pick.


The Jaguars re-signed former tackle Tony Boselli to a one-day contract, after which the five-time Pro Bowler announced his retirement. Boselli left Jacksonville via the expansion draft, but he never played a down for the Texans because of chronic shoulder problems. The Jaguars plan to induct Boselli as the first member of their Ring of Honor this season.

Hilliard Resigns with the Bucs.

Thank You Mr. Allen! Ike returns to us for another season. The Bucs re-signed veteran wide receiver Ike Hilliard and young cornerback Torrie Cox. Hilliard was in Houston today and met with the Texans, but it was the Buccaneers that pulled through and resigned the former Florida Gator to another season. As I said before I am a huge fan of Hilliards. Now Coach Gruden just needs to get him the ball more, because he has the hands.

According to ProFootballTalk.com, Hilliard signed a four-year contract with the Buccaneers.

Is Ike the Next Buccaneer to Leave?

The Houston Chronicle is reporting that Buccaneer Free agent receiver Ike Hilliard will visit the Texans this week. It seems that the Buccaneers are not interested in bringing the sure handed 3rd down receiver back for another year. First they allowed Joe Jurevicius to leave, now they are allowing Ike to leave.

I can not say that I am happy about this, I have met Ike and spent a few hours with him, I even got his autograph. This guys is a very good 3rd down and short yardage receiver, who should have gotten more balls thrown his way last season. It seems that he will get a nice offer from the Texans, and probably take it. So who will we be left with?

W hat The?

Ok now I am a little pissed off. I pay enough for my tickets, and it seems like the Glazers are trying to become the next Daniel Snyder by cashimg in. At least Snyder puts the money back into free agency. It seems St Pete Times found this out:

MORE DEPOSITS: Bucs chat rooms are alive with talk about whether they plan
to charge season-ticket holders another seat deposit when the 10-year commitment
expires after the 2006 season. According to chief operating officer Eric Land,
the issue has not been discussed. "It's two years away and not really on our
radar right now," he said.

This, of course, comes from a team that has raised ticket prices four straight seasons.The Bucs claim to have more than 100,000 requests on their season-ticket waiting list. Charging a new 10-year seat deposit - or perhaps a seat license that is not refundable - would create a windfall of cash for owner Malcolm Glazer. Word is, it's going to happen.

Finally the Bucs Make A Move.

I have been waiting, and waiting for the Buccaneers to make a move, and today was the day. Finally the Buccaneers bring in a free agent that signs and will have a huge impact right of the start.

Guard Toniu Fonoti visited with The Buccaneers today (Friday) and had a deal done before the day was over. He is considered one of the largest players in the league at well over 350 pounds, Fonoti was a Sports Illustrated first-team all-pro selection in 2004.

Fonoti is considered a powerful run-blocker which is great news for Cadillac Williams. This guy has been opening holes for Pro Bowl running back LaDainian Tomlinson, and we all know how good Tomlinson is, specially if you play fantasy football.

Fonoti is listed at 6-4 and 350 pounds, Fonoti entered the league as a second-round draft choice in 2002, taking 39th overall.

I look for last years rookie left guard Dan Buenning to remain a starter and Toniu Fonoti to secure the right guard spot.

Meanwhile, the Bucs continue to negotiate with Tom Mills, who is the agent for New England free agent tackle Tom Ashworth. If we could sign Ashworth, I think our 23rd pick in the 2006 might go wide receiver. ESPN is reporting that Sinorice Moss might just fall into the Bucs hands, which I find hard to believe, but would love.

Bucs Draft Day Party.

This is free Advertising for the Buccaneers, as a season ticket holder and a loyal fan, I miss nothing to do with the Bucs. I go to every fan fest, father and son day, training camp, The Offical Season Kickoff Party by Miller Lite, and the private Super Bowl Book Signing.

As I have mentioned I run a fantasy football league and I throw a huge NFL Draft party, except for last year. Last year I went to this Buccaneer Draft Party at Raymond James. I took my son and wife and we all had a great time. I got pictures taken of my son with the Cheerleaders, Captain Fear, and even Big Nasty was there. It was free, in the air condition, and a load of fun. As always food and Beer was expensive, but you already know that going to a NFL event. It was great to hear the Fans to include myself roar when the Bucs selected Cadillac Williams with the number 5 pick overall as we watched it on the HUGE VIDEO WALLS, what an experience. However, this year I will stay home and hold my annual draft party for my fantasy league. But if you are in the bay area and can go to the Buccaneer Draft Party, it is a must.

Damn It I knew this is where he would go.

This will make every Buccaneer fan happy NOT. I just knew that we would see ME-Shawn twice a year. With the Panthers in need of a number two receiver, and Me-Shawn's hate towards Coach Gruden, the writing was on the wall that we would see this SOB twice a year. Ok sure he is one of the all time great receivers STAT wise. Don't believe me, he just broke into the top 20 all time receivers this past year. Sure the Panthers have the Best Receiver in Steve Smith, and if they add Keyshawn, they could be deadly. However we must remember that we have the NUMBER 1 Defense in the league. So it could also be nice seeing Keyshawn with no stats after he plays us.

Free agent wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson expressed interest on Wednesday in playing for the Panthers. In fact, he told the Fort Worth Star Telegram that he's already spoken with team officials. However, an hour later he told Sirius NFL Radio that he has yet to speak to any teams. Johnson has previously stated that Panthers offensive coordinator Dan Henning is the best offensive coordinator he's ever played for. Plus, the team is less than thrilled with Keary Colbert's lousy sophomore season. If Carolina has the cap space, it wouldn't surprise us to see him end up with the Panthers.

Patrick Ramsey to Visit Bucs.

The Buccaneers have been granted permission to speak to Redskins quarterback Patrick Ramsey, according to the St. Petersburg Times. The Redskins are trying to trade the fifth-year quarterback before the season opens. The Bucs haven't given up on re-signing Brian Griese just yet, but teams such as the Vikings and Ravens are also rumored as having interest. Head coach Jon Gruden has made it known that he would like to re-sign Griese or bring in another quarterback to compete with Chris Simms for the starting job. Apparently, Gruden doesn't believe Tim Rattay is up to the challenge like I do, but then again what do I know. He is the Coach. Either way Ramsey would be a nice back up to Simms

The Buccaneers next Wide Receiver.

Yeah, I know I have been pushing for the Bucs to sign T.O., but after the Cowboys released Keyshawn, I think T.O. will end up in Dallas.

However, my boys need another WR. It seems for some reason the Bucs have not offered anything to Ike Hillard. So who could our 3rd receiver be, reports are coming in that the Buccaneers are interested in signing the Bills Superstar Eric Moulds, who wants to be released from Buffalo. I do not know what their asking price is, but maybe the Bucs could bring him in for a couple years to help mentor Michael Clayton. Remember Tim Brown and what he did for Clayton. Oh well we can only hope.

Some Updates.

As I have stated before, I am a huge fantasy football fan. I currently play in three leagues, but I am thinking about dropping out of one. I currently run a league of 10 owners to include me. This is where I have been putting all other NFL news, and keeping this blog a Buccaneer Blog only. If anyone is interested in my other blog it is www.playmakersffl.blogspot.com , I am currently getting the other nine owners up to date and signing them up on the blog. It is a slow process but I will get it done before the new season.

Ok, I have added a NFL Draft Countdown to this blog, and I am fixing it like it was before. I created other pages to show Bucs info, but it got to be a little much. You see I need the other pages for my playmakers site. Besides this is a very good detailed blog anyway.

I throw a huge NFL Draft party every year for my fantasy league. It usually turns into a Madden (EAS sports) on xbox and PS2 competition. However, it is a good way to have a meeting to discuss our fantasy league.

The picture of Chris Hovan is because he is the only news the Bucs are writting about as of late. He also had a press conference at One Buc Place, which can be seen at www.buccaneers.com He basicly said the Bucs gave him a chance, so he is loyal to them, and he likes the fact that the Bucs are very close to being in the Super Bowl.


Revenge is a dish best served cold. This could not have happen to a better "JERK" then Keyshawn. Dallas cut Keyshawn yesturday, which is believed they are making room for T.O. I hate Keyshawn, and I think this says a lot about Joey Galloway. Now who got the better trade BILL?

Jameel Cook Signs with the Texans.

Well it is a good thing Alstott is back for another year, because the Houston Texans have agreed to a contract with unrestricted free agent FB Jameel Cook. I thought Cook was a good fullback, bigger and a better blocker then Mike. I was some what confused why Coach Gruden used Cook to block for Alstott but not Cadillac. Anyway with Cook gone, and Mike on his last year, the Bucs better find a good fullback or we must pray that Rick Razzano becomes the man fast.

Matt Bryant Resigns with the Bucs.

Well the Bucs did it for a third time on Saturday, they signed another free agent this time K, Matt Bryant (3). This is good news for the Bucs. Matt had a great season last year and really improved the Buccaneers kicking game. Sure he lost us one game, however he won a few too.


I guess this means the Bucs wont be going after the Leagues best kicker Adam Vinatieri. I was kind of hoping Adam would be in a Buccaneer uniform this season. However, I am happy with Bryant, he really did improve the kicking game, maybe this season he will take it to another level.

Number 40 Gives Us Fans Another Year.

As most of you already know the A-Train, Mike Alstott is returning for another year with the Bucs. This is great news for the Bucs, Mike and us fans. As I have said over and over again, Alstott is my favorite all time player. So with this move, I am so looking forward to this season. I know that Mike will not get many carries, which I am ok with.

However, as a fan I am happy, but as a fantasy football owner, who has Cadillac as a keeper in 3 leagues, I am a little worried. I know that the A-Train will rob the Cadillac of the goal line carries, which could cost me over $1200.00. But oh well, I am still keeping Cadillac, and I am glad that Mike will return for one more run. Who knows maybe this is our year and Alstott and Brooks can retire with two rings.

Here is the ESPN story about Alstott new contract.

Bucs Make Their Cuts..........

As the start of the new season is upon us, and the doom for many players as teams have until 12:01 tonight to get under the $102 million salary cap, the Buccaneers made cuts.

No surprise as the Buccaneers cut Brian Griese, offensive lineman Matt Stinchcomb and linebacker Jeff Gooch. All three of these players were rumored to be on the cutting block for weeks. Griese is wanted back by the Buccaneers (WHY). I do not see any reason to bring him back. Simms is the future, and he will get a long term contract during this season. Tim Rattay is who the Bucs need to bring back as the Back up.

However, I heard something interesting tonight. We all know how Jon Gruden loves quarterbacks, and there has been a lot of talk about the Vikings making a trade to a team for Culpepper. First it was the Raiders, who said tonight "NOPE NOT US" and why would it be? Do you really think Randy Moss wants to play with him again? Then there was the Dolphins, who also said "NOPE NOT US" (I think they are interested, but they want Brees, who seems to be heading to New Orleans for a big pay day.) So could this secret team that is making a trade to the Vikings be the Bucs. Is Simeon Rice the trade bait. You must remember that Mike Tomlin was with the Buccaneers for 5 year as the defensive backs coach. Now Tomlin is the Defensive Coordinator in Minnesota. Could this rumor be true? Lets see with Simms only signing a one year deal, and Griese was just cut, and Tim Rattay is a free agent, could Culpepper be heading to Florida but not to the Dolphins? My sources have been right before, so lets wait and see. With Simms as the Starter this season, this gives Culpepper a chance to recover from his knee surgery and fix his love boat troubles.

What are your thoughts?

Today Tackle Brad Hopkins Visits the Bucs...

Former Tennessee Titans left tackle Brad Hopkins is scheduled to visit with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at One Buccaneer Place on Today, Thursday, March 09, 2006.

Hopkins, who has 13 seasons and two Pro Bowls under his belt, turns 36 in September but intends on playing in 2006 and beyond, according to his agent, Mark Bartelstein.

"He's definitely going to play this year," said Bartelstein. "He's healthy as
could be and he had a great year last year. He's looking forward to playing
several more years."
The 6-foot-3, 305-pound Hopkins met with the New York
Jets Wednesday and is scheduled to meet with the Atlanta Falcons on Friday.

As we all know we need to upgrade our offensive line, if we are to be Super Bowl contenders. The Buccaneers will probably lose Kenyatta Walker due to free agency, and are looking at moving Anthony Davis to right tackle. This would leopeningpenning at left tackle, where Brad Hopkins could fill.

Hopkins, who entered the NFL in 1993 as a first-round draft pick, started 188 of the 194 games he played in as a Houston Oiler/Tennessee Titan, including 15 starts in 2005. The rumor is that Hopkins is interested in playing for Coach Jon Gruden, as is most free agents. However, at age 36 is this an upgrade or has he lost a step and will this be another Todd Steussie salary cap problem. Here is what is agent said about the Bucs and Gruden.

"They're real close to being a Super Bowl contender," Bartelstein said of Tampa
Bay. "I think Brad would like to play for Coach Gruden. He played for him in the
Pro Bowl and developed a relationship with him. I think Tampa Bay is definitely
a place he wants to take a good look at."

As The NFL Turns.....

Well at the 11th hour, (of the extended, extended deadline) the Owners voted 30-2 to save the NFL from future doom. Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson along Mike Brown of the Bengals voted no on the NFL Players Association's proposal to extend the collective bargaining agreement.

The NFL agreed to a six-year CBA extension that brings labor peace to the league through 2011.

The salary cap will also increase, which is great news for the Buccaneers. Now maybe we can resign "My Favorite Player" MIKE ALSTOTT. The cap in 2006 will be $102 million, an increase of $7.5 million over the projected $94.5 million cap for 2006. That's a $16.5 million increase from the $85.5 million cap of 2005. The 2007 cap will be $109 million.

Free agency will start in 24 hours or 48 hours, that is still being negotiated. The NFL decided to give teams and GMs more time to work in the extra $7.5 million in cap space.

Over all this is great news for the fans. After all we are the ones who suffer, from a strike and the cost of increased ticket prices. Just ask me my season tickets jumped up well over $100 for the year.

Joey Galloway on ESPN Rapid Fire.

Well I have not commented too much on this great player, number 86, Wide Receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Lets face it, probably one of the greatest trades in Buccaneers history; Keyshawn Johnson to Dallas for Joey Galloway.

Well tonight he was on ESPN's Rapid Fire: Here is the questions and answers from the 15 minute rapid fire.

Q: Better Buccaneer Uniforms, current one or the old orange ones?

A: The old ones.

Q: You get to make the call on T.O. coming to Tampa. Do you say yes or no?

A: No.

Q: If you had not gone to Ohio State where would you have gone?

A: No where else, that it, Ohio State is it.

Q: First thing Chris Simms said to you win Texas beat Ohio State?

A: Where is my money.

Q: Better Ohio State Receivers,Ted Ginn or Santonio Holmes?

A: Santonio Holmes

Q: Quarterback you would draft first, Vince Young or Matt Leinart?

A: Matt Leinart

Q: Who is the toughest NFL Cornerback to get free from?

A: Champ Bailey.

Q: Who is the Cornerback that is the most fun to burn?

A: Shawn Springs.

Q: Who has hit you hard then anybody in your NFL career?

A: Derrick Brooks caught me one time.

Q: Was this in practice or was it in a game, when you were in Dallas?

A: It was in a game, when I was actually in Seattle. I ran a slant and he is fast.

Q: What did it feel like?

A: It was one of those I was running and the next thing I know I was getting up.

Q: You don't remember the hit?

A: No

Q: Has he brought that up to you as a Buccaneer?

A: I don't think he remembers, he's had so many hits, I don't think that one stands out.

Q: The Seahawks sent you to Dallas for two number one picks, who got the better end of that deal?

A: Tampa Bay.

Q: Who did you route for in the Super Bowl.

A: Pittsburgh.

Q: Did you really?

A: I grew up 45 minutes from Pittsburgh. I grew up a Lynn Swann fan.

Q: So Nothing against Seattle, you just grew up a Steelers fan?

A: I grew up a Pittsburgh fan.

If you want to watch it here is the link. Rapid Fire

Buccaneers Resign Chris Hovan.

Well the Buccaneers took a huge step towards returning to the Super Bowl and keeping the NFL's 1st place defense together by resigning defensive tackle Chris Hovan.

Hovan, who is a six year veteran resurrected his NFL career in Tampa this past season. Hovan was a first round draft pick in the 2000 draft taken by Minnesota Vikings, who played right into the starting line-up. However, when Hovan hit free agency, the Vikings did not want to resign him.

The Buccaneers took a chance on signing him for the base salary of $540,000. After one season with the Bucs, he helped the Bucs do something they have not been able to do, that is stop the run. Today Chris Hovan earned his paycheck, and a nice future with the Buccaneers with a 5 year $17.5 million contract.

According to Hovan's teammates:

"Defensive end Simeon Rice and linebacker Derrick Brooks, cited
Hovan's presence as a factor in the improved performance of the front seven."

As The NFL Turns.......

Previously on As The NFL Turns: We last left off with the Labor talks looking promising, according to ESPN. But like most Soap Operas there is always a twist. Today the NFL and its players union broke off talks again Sunday, leaving dozens of veterans in danger of becoming salary cap casualties before free agency begins a minute after midnight Monday.

The problem lies with the EVIL high blood clubs (high revenue clubs) and the blood (revenue) sharing murder (issue). Their refusal to share more blood (revenue) is making it worse for everybody -- players, owners, and fans.
TO BE CONTINUED.......

Join us next week at 1201 am on Thursday, to see if the Dynamic Duo, Paul Tagliabue and Gene Upshaw can save the NFL from the EVIL Nine Blood Owners.


If you want to read a nice blog about the CBA Union Meetings with day by day events as they have happened, check out this official Eagles Blog: Philadelphia Eagles .

Also here is another great ESPN article about what changes will happen in 2006 and the 2007 season. There seems to be some confusion, 2007 still is a CBA contract year, however, there is no salary cap. 2008 is the start of a NO CBA CONTRACT. ESPN

Derrick Brooks Will Retire A Buc....

That is when he decides to retire, because this year he will still be the Captain of the Defense.
Derrick Brooks, the next Tampa Bay Buccaneer Hall of Famer and nine time Pro Bowler restructured his contract on Sunday.

This is great news for the Buccaneers and their fans. Besides Mike Alstott, who's future is uncertain, Derrick Brooks is the other Beloved Buccaneer by the fans.

Brooks reworked deal is believed to come with guaranteed money and an extension past the 2009 season.





According to Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.com: ESPN

"With the Tampa Bay Bucs facing a twice-extended Sunday
deadline for being in compliance with the NFL's spending limit for 2006, nine-time Pro Bowl linebacker Derrick Brooks restructured his contract to open up about $5 million in additional salary cap room.

The reworked deal, confirmed by agent Roosevelt Barnes on Sunday evening, still keeps Brooks well above the minimum salary for 2006. The restructuring also included a four-year contract extension, the details of which were not immediately available."

You can also read about Brooks restructured contract at Pewter Report

As The NFL Turns..........

Well as of Sunday, 12:00 PM, the Labor talks now look promising. According to ESPN:

"The NFL owners and the players' union have until midnight Sunday to agree on an extension to the leagues Collective Bargaining Agreement. And just when the talks looked dead, there might be a glimmer of hope.

Gene Upshaw, the executive director of the NFL Players Association, told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that the two sides are meeting in New York again Sunday and that the two sides communicated via e-mail on Saturday night after face-to-face talks broke down Saturday.In an e-mail to the Washington Post, Gene Upshaw said the two sides
were "now in the area where we will get a deal. I think it may be there. It comes down to a few final points."

This is a stark contrast from how things ended Saturday. Union attorney Jeffrey Kessler, one of the lead negotiators for the NFLPA and part of a small group that huddled with league representatives, termed the negotiations "as dead as a doornail."

Things are looking up if this don't change, it sounds like the NFL has caused some drama for the off-season to keep the NFL interesting, What do you think? Anyway, as long as this works out that is all I care. I think the NFL needs the Salary Cap, Free Agency, the NFL Draft, and any other thing we as fans might have lost without a CBA extension.

Ok, in other news, I caught on to a story about Bruce Allen inflating the Buccaneers Salary Cap figure to the Media, fans, player, and their agents. I was the first Bucs Blog to break the story something smells fishy. Well here it is, An officially reported by the St. Pete Times, Bucs salary cap situation was never as dire as the picture painted by general manager Bruce Allen. If this was not enough for you, here is the Tampa Tribune's article: Bucs general manager Bruce Allen painted a pretty bleak picture of the challenge he faced in preparing for the start of the new league year.
Just remember Pewter Pirates broke the Story first, I try to bring my readers first hand news about the Buccaneers, as I am tuned into the Bucs all day/everyday.
What do you all think? I think he used a tactic to scare the players and their agents. I also think he inflated the numbers so when he crunched them, he would come out smelling like roses. Really, I do not care as long as our star players return, like Brooks, and Rice. In the past we as fans have lost our star players like Hardy Nickerson, Warrick Dunn, John Lynch, Warren Sapp, and Keenan McCardell. I really would love to see Alstott back for another year, but as for now I think that won't happen and as long as he retires and is not wearing a different team jersey, I think most of us can handle it.

The priority to date is getting under the cap, keeping Brooks, and Rice, resigning Chris Hovan, and Matt Bryant. We need to create money for the rookies that we draft, and then have some cash to go after free agent (specially offensive linemen). We might also need a third receiver if the Buccaneers do not resign Ike Hillard. The just offered Bucs receiver Edell Shepherd a one-year tender, avoiding restricted free agency. Terms were not released. Tampa Bay tendered guard Sean Mahan a one-year, $1.55-million deal.

Shepherd said he still is hopeful for a long-term extension.
"If they want me, they can get me," Shepherd said.

Shepherd could very well be our number 3 receiver and eventually a great number 1 or 2 receiver after Galloway retires. Anyway after the NFL Armageddon, things are looking up at least for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Booger McFarland remains a Bucs, he restructured his contract.

Anthony "Booger" McFarland has done it again; He restructured his contract, which ensures he remains a Buccaneer. Derrick Brooks, Simeon Rice and Booger McFarland were the three highest paid players on the team, and with the CBA in turmoil, one or two of these players could be cut. However, it won't be Booger. This is the second time in six months that he has restructured his contract for the Buccaneers.

This is good news for the Buccaneers and Booger. Booger, who replaced our star defensive tackle Warren Sapp has never really lived up to his current contract. Booger has been plagued by injuries.

However, Booger showed signs at the end of this past season of greatness. Booger and Derrick Brooks are the Buccaneers player representives and have been very much involved in the CBA talks. This makes me wonder if Booger knows that the CBA talks has fell through again as ESPN reported Saturday night. Booger knew that he was on the cutting block and with all the free agents that were getting dumped, maybe Booger wanted to feel a little secure. This leaves me with one question, Brooks or Rice, who will it be or both that get cut? I hope that both Brooks and Rice restructure their contracts to remain a Buccaneer, which will keep the Leagues number one Defense together. That is after they residefensiveive tackle Chris Hovan.

According to the Pewter Report:

"It is unknown at this time exactly how much cap room the move saves, but considering the Bucs are approximately $11 million over the NFL-mandated salary cap of $94.5 million, any cap relief helps. The $11 million cap overage takes into account the fact that the contracts for fullback Mike Alstott and tackle Kenyatta Walker will void at the start on the first day of the new league year.

The Bucs restructured McFarland's contract in October in an effort to
free up cap room so that the team could execute the trade with the San Francisco 49ers for quarterback Tim Rattay.As part of his reworked deal back in October, McFarland was given $1.592 million in the form of a signing bonus and his 2005 base salary rate was reduced to $540,000 for the remainder of the season. While his new cap figure in 2005 was $3.512 million, McFarland's salary cap value was scheduled to escalate to $8.098 million in 2006, a figure the cap-strapped Bucs were hard pressed to afford."

pewterreport.com

The Buccaneers have also tendered one-year, $385,000 contracts to four players - tackle Anthony Davis, guard Jeb Terry, wide receiver Edell Shepherd and running back Earnest Graham.

Tight end Anthony Becht has also reworked his contract, which is believed to have guaranteed a $500,000 roster bonus, Which is saving approximately $400,000 in cap space this year for the Buccaneers.

Pittman remains a Buc, He restructured his contract.

Michael Pittman, tagged the unselfish player gives into the Bucs needs again.
according to the St.Pete Times

Pittman, 30, agreed to terms on a contract extension that could keep him in Tampa Bay through the 2009 season.

The deal freed approximately $700,000 of cap room, lowering his
salary-cap value for next season to $1.4-million from $2.1-million. The deal includes a veteran minimum base salary of $675,000 next season, roughly half of it guaranteed.

This is good news for the Buccaneers. Pittman is a team player, and a great back-up running back to Cadillac Williams. The Buccaneers are doing a good job so far keeping last years team together. A great NFL Draft, and if we have the money for free agency, Which GM Bruce Allen, who appeared on the NFL Network Total Access said we would be. Allen said no matter what happens with the CBA, either way the Buccaneers will be very active with free agency. Allen also said the Buccaneers will be fine with or without a CBA in place. Allen gave Gruden and the coaching staff a lot of praise, saying it was one of the best in the NFL. Allen said with Gruden as head coach, a great stadium, and a new training facility many free agents want to play in Tampa.

Free Agency/ 2006 Season Pushed Back...

The breakthrough came with a mutual agreement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association Thursday afternoon.

Maybe just maybe a contract might be getting done. The free agency deadline and the start of the 2006 season has been extended its by three days and resumed talks on the CBA. WOoooooooooooooooooo maybe just maybe, this will get done.



I wonder what the teams like Dolphins, Broncos, and Cowboys think now after cutting some of their stars. I know I dogged Bruce Allen before about the Salary Cap fig, but at least he was smart enough not to cut Derrick Brooks or Simeon Rice yet!

Something Smells Fishy.............

As I reported a short time ago, a breaking story is unfolding. It seems that GM Bruce Allen has told everyone that the Buccaneers are $19 million over the 2006 Salary Cap with NO new CBA. However, this is turning out not to be true. It seems that the NFL, ESPN, the NFL Network and the Buccaneers' very own Radio Network has discovered the figure is more like $8-9 Million over the cap. This is huge! Why would Mr. Allen lie about this number? Was it to scare the top 15 paid players on the Buccaneers roster to renegotiate their contracts? Why did the Buccaneers tell Mike Alstott that they do not have the $1.5 million to resign him that he is asking for, but they offered him a lower price? Was this a way to get more money to sign top free agents, that Mr. Allen and Coach Jon Gruden know might be available after the CBA fell through and big named free agents would be cut and available?

I am kind of pissed about being lied to, however, if there is a plan like they need the money to sign Pro Bowl, Free Agent, Offensive Line men then this might be ok, but they should have told us.. If you do not believe that Mr. Allen is capable of lying read this article.

Misunderstanding
It seems in this article by the St. Pete Times, Anthony McFarland was asked to restructure his contract to bring Shaun King back, which he agreed to do, because he is close friends with King. However, after the Buccaneers had their money they did not bring King back, they signed Tim Rattay instead. Now don't get me wrong, I would much rather have Tim Rattay instead of King, however would McFarland have gave up his money knowing that Rattay was coming instead of King. Do you considered this lying.

Here is the reports I found about the Buccaneers real cap situation:

John Clayton from ESPN, who keeps track of the NFL Teams Salary Cap reported:
espn

By Pat Kirwan FL.com Senior Analyst:
nfl
Kirwan wrote:

Tampa Bay: The Bucs have rebuilt their football team over the past two seasons and seem ready to make a run back to the top of the NFC. If the CBA were extended, they could get a player or two to make a difference on a young talented roster. Instead, they need to create close to $9 million in salary-cap space to be in compliance with the 2006 cap. Terminating two players like Mike Alstott and Brian Griese would get the Bucs under the cap, but it doesn't give them enough room to replace the talent they had in 2005 or give them the flexibility to be aggressive with unrestricted free agent players.

This is just a few that I found on the Net, the NFL Network reported on it this
moring.

NFL Owners Voted Unanimously Thursday to Break Off Talks with the Players' Union

Well its over the NFL is screwed, according to ESPN:

NFL owners voted unanimously Thursday to break off talks with the players' union on a contract extension, leaving the current salary cap in place with the start of free agency looming and possibly forcing the mass dumping of veterans.

"The situation is about as dire as dire can be," commissioner Paul
Tagliabue said.

The owners, who met for 57 minutes Thursday morning, endorsed a
recommendation by their management council executive committee to reject the union's latest proposal.

The breakdown of talks left intact, for now, a salary cap of $94.5
million. The two sides had hoped to add $10 million to $15 million to the 2006 salary cap. Without the additional room, some teams could be forced into wholesale cuts to get beneath the cap by midnight. Free agency starts Friday.

Doomsday is at hand for the NFL and their key star players. The cuts have already started pouring in. The Miami Dolphins already cut four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Sam Madison,cornerback Reggie Howard, safety Tebucky Jones and offensive tackle Damion McIntosh. The Broncos released running back, Mike Anderson.

The Buccaneers have said that they are $19 million over the cap and the NFL/ESPN and NFL Network reported that the Bucs are really only $8 million over the cap. I think Bruce has faked some numbers. Buccaneer radio network also discovered that the Bucs are only $8 million over also. The Rumor is that the Bucs inflated their number to make the veterans redo their contracts.

Anyway we will see what happens and who the Bucs cut today.

Bucs Resign Chris Simms........

Today, the Buccaneers and QB Chris Simms agreed to a one-year contract. This is good news for this year, but next year Simms is expecting his payday. According to ESPN, NFL, and the Tampa Tribune, The Buccaneers made a tender offer to Simms for one year worth $2 million dollars, which would make him a restricted free agent, and if any team tries to sign him they would owe the Bucs a 1st and 3rd round draft pick, not to mention the Bucs have the right to match the offer first. Coach Jon Gruden and Buccaneer.com are saying this is not a one tender, but a one year contract and nobody can sign Simms until next season. So now this won't happen, Simms is a Buc for another season. Maybe next year the Glazers can give him a crazy contract since there will be no salary cap.

Simms and Coach Gruden where available at a press conference at team headquarters which was carried live on Buccaneers.com. Simms said that he was the starter going into the season, with Coach Jon Gruden sitting right there.

"It's great just going into offseason workouts knowing that I am the starter and
the organization is looking to me," Simms said.

I got to listen to Chris Simms interview with the Buccaneers Radio Network, he was promised the starting postion. The Bucs are now his team no matter what Griese does. This is great news, because I think we are better with Simms as our QB then Griese. If you listen the plan sounds like the Buccaneers did not have the money to give him a huge contract, so they offered him a one year deal so nobody could take him, I bet the Bucs plan on paying him huge next year with no Salary Cap to hurt the Bucs.

In other Buccaneer salary cap news, Derrick Brooks' agent has said he will be willing to restructure the linebacker's deal, which has him set to cost $11.7 million against the salary cap. Booger McFarland's agent Karl Bernard also told the Bucs he would restructure. And the Bucs were speaking with Simeon Rice and Shelton Quarles about trying to reduce their 2006-07 salaries.

Salary Cap for all 32 NFL Teams....

This is what ESPN is reporting for March 01, 2006 in the amount of money each team is under or over the $92 Million salary cap. This does not include the salaries of restricted and exclusive-rights players. Here what is crazy, we know that the Bucs are as much as $19 million over the cap so I am not sure if these other figures are correct or not. But like I said this is what ESPN reported.

Under the salary cap Team Cap status (under)
Minnesota Vikings
$24 million
Arizona Cardinals
$21.8 million
Cleveland Browns
$21.5 million
Green Bay Packers
$21 million
San Francisco 49ers
$17.4 million
San Diego Chargers
$17.1 million
Jacksonville Jaguars
$14.2 million
Philadelphia Eagles
$14.2 million
Baltimore Ravens
$11.9 million
Detroit Lions
$10.6 million
St. Louis Rams
$10.6 million
Seattle Seahawks
$9.5 million
Cincinnati Bengals
$9 million
New Orleans Saints
$8.2 million
Chicago Bears
$7.8 million
Houston Texans
$4 million
New York Giants
$3.3 million
Buffalo Bills
$2 million
New England Patriots
$1.5 million

Over the salary cap Team Cap status (over)
Oakland Raiders
$26 million
Miami Dolphins
$21.9 million
Kansas City Chiefs
$20.7 million
Tennessee Titans
$18.7 million
Washington Redskins
$17 million
Denver Broncos
$16.4 million
Carolina Panthers
$12.7 million
Atlanta Falcons
$11.7 million
New York Jets
$11.1 million
Indianapolis Colts
$9.4 million
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
$8.7 million
Pittsburgh Steelers
$7 million
Dallas Cowboys
$1.2 million

Chris Mortensen from ESPN on the CBA.

I found a ESPN Video Motion on the CBA, it is an interview with Chris Mortensen, who spoke with Gene Upshaw after yesterdays meeting between the Commissioner.

Go to the link click on the picture of Gene Upshaw, titles "Talks Break Down Surrounding The NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement."
ESPN