As phase three of OTA’s begin this week, there is already controversy brewing in Tampa Bay.
Disputes with Hargreaves
Cornerback Vernon Hargreaves did not participate in any drills. When asked about it, coach Bruce Arians said: “He has to get his mind right.” When pressed further, Arians said, “you would have to ask Vernon”.
This is not exactly a ringing endorsement. The Bucs just picked up the fifth-year option of his contract for 2020. This will pay Hargreaves nine million dollars.
In one of his opening press conferences, Arians said that he was excited for Hargreaves and thought he would excel in the type of defense the Bucs look to deploy this year.
There is still a lot of time for those two guys to work out whatever differences they have, but it is not starting well. The fact that Arians had three rookies out there in Sean Bunting, Jamel Dean, and Mike Edwards practicing with the first team does not bode well for Hargreaves.
OTA No-Shows
Gerald McCoy was also a no show today but that was expected. The rumor mill continues to link McCoy to the Cleveland Browns in a trade. However, Browns GM John Dorsey has said that ship has sailed and a trade is currently off the table.
Mandatory mini-camp will be held June 4th-8th and Tampa Bay very well could fine McCoy if he does not show up. There have been no discussions surrounding a re-negotiation of McCoy’s contract to play for less than $13 million this season.
Overall, Arians was pleased with the speed and pace of the practice. He had promised to run two practices at the same time. Those words would hold true. The starters along with the first team practiced on one field, while the rookies and second team players practiced on another.
Arians wants to get as much tape on everyone as he possibly can in order to find that diamond in the rough.
Bright Spots
The Winston to Breshad Perriman connection looks like it will be a force on offense, especially with the long ball. Arians had high praise for that duo today noting the chemistry between the two.
Another bright spot was Ronald Jones who actually ran the ball with some authority today. He had a couple of nice catches out of the backfield. Perriman looks to come back from a disappointing rookie season in 2018.
Once again the defense looked to be ahead of the offense as they got the better of them today. Devin White had another interception in practice. Also, the rookie defensive backs Bunting, Dean, and Edwards all had their moments and made some notable plays.
This is still underwear football. No pads allowed, but the offense was able to play against the defense for the first time which seemed to raise the competition level a bit.
