The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were hoping to make some positive headlines during the offseason as they look to improve on a dismal 3-13 season.

The headline on Sunday wasn't a favorable one for the Bucs, who saw strong safety Jermaine Phillips get arrested at 4:50 a.m. on Sunday, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office website. Phillips is charged with domestic battery by strangulation, which is a felony, of his wife after she confronted him over a number that appeared on Phillips' cell phone. Phillips remained in a Hillsborough County jail on Sunday without bond although he is expected to be released on his own recognizance on Monday.

The 30-year old Phillips, who is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent in 2010 after signing a one-year contract last year, spent most of the 2009 season on injured reserve after breaking his thumb against Buffalo in Week 2.

Since joining the Buccaneers in 2002 as a fifth-round pick, Phillips has totaled 546 tackles, 34 passes defensed, 11 interceptions and three sacks.

The Buccaneers are still investigating the report and issued the following statement: "The Buccaneers are aware of the serious charges against Jermaine Phillips and will monitor the situation closely."