The Bucs are returning all 22 starters from their Super Bowl-winning team, and also some of their key reserves as well.

Bucs CB Ross Cockrell – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

PewterReport.com confirmed the Buccaneers have re-signed defensive back Ross Cockerell to a new two-year deal. Cockrell who was fourth on the corner depth chart in 2020 after signing as an unrestricted free agent last offseason. He is expected to fill the same role this season behind starters Jamel Dean, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Carlton Davis.

Cockrell, now in is eight season in the NFL, was originally drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fourth round in 2014 before playing two years with Pittsburgh and a season with both the Giants and Panthers.

He spent the 2019 NFL season with the Carolina Panthers, starting in 11-of-14 appearances and recording 62 tackles, eight passes defensed and two interceptions.

The former Duke Blue Devil has played in 80 career NFL games, including 12 last season with the Buccaneers.  Over his career in the NFL, he’s totaled 207 tackles 45 passes defended, one forced fumble and seven interceptions. A veteran presence in the locker room, Cockrell is currently the oldest and most experienced cornerback on the Bucs’ roster.

He has played in nine career postseason games between Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay, recording 19 tackles (one for loss), one pass defensed and one fumble recovery. The Duke University product is a native of Hazlet, New Jersey.