http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80f2ee53&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=trueTampa Bay Buccaneers
2007 finish: 9-7, NFC South champions
2007 playoffs: Lost in NFC Wild-Card Game to Giants
2008 finish: 9-7
Though the Buccaneers finished with the same record for two straight seasons, they went from NFC South kings to third place in the improved division in '08.
Coach Jon Gruden, general manager Bruce Allen and veteran players Derrick Brooks, Warrick Dunn, Jeff Garcia and Joey Galloway were cast out, seemingly stripping Tampa Bay of its nucleus. However, a young and talented offensive line, a solid middle linebacker and a fairly strong secondary provide new coach Raheem Morris some pieces with which to work.
The Bucs' quarterback situation is a huge question mark, as Luke McCown looks to be the heir to Garcia at quarterback. However, adding free-agent running back Derrick Ward to complement Earnest Graham gives Tampa Bay a nice tandem. The team isn't counting on Cadillac Williams to come back from another knee surgery anytime soon.
The Bucs franchised free-agent wide receiver Antonio Bryant at more than $9 million, with hopes that he will repeat his breakthrough '08 season. They also signed wide receiver Michael Clayton to a five-year, $26 million contract, hoping he will find himself after failing to consistently deliver under Gruden.
Tampa Bay must fortify its defensive interior. It lost defensive tackle Jovan Haye to free agency (Tennessee), and someone has to protect middle linebacker Barrett Ruud. Passing on Mississippi defensive tackle Peria Jerry or Missouri's Ziggy Hood with the 20th pick could prompt some head scratching, although adding a cornerback or defensive end could be an option.
