Abraham winds up with Jets, Edwards

TAMPA -- Former Bucs cornerback Donnie Abraham agreed to a six-year, $18-million contract with the Jets.

"I'm relieved to get this over with because the market this year was tough and things were kind of close," Abraham said Monday. "Now I can move on."

The Bucs released Abraham on March 15 rather than pay him a $500,000 roster bonus.

Abraham, a Pro Bowl player in 2000, had 31 interceptions the past six seasons, more than any active NFL player. But he lost his starting job last season to Brian Kelly, who was re-signed as an unrestricted free agent.

Despite the demotion, Abraham finished with six interceptionss and led the team in passes defensed. Kelly did not have an interception.

Abraham will be reunited with former Bucs secondary coach Herm Edwards, now head coach of the Jets. Despite interest from the Lions and the Colts, Abraham said being with a coach who wanted him mattered.

"It definitely helps to be with somebody who knows what I can do and who essentially helped groom my career," Abraham said. "I had some visits and interest from other teams, but to be back with Herm was an easy decision."

Terms of the contract were not released, but about $5-million is guaranteed in the deal.

FREE AGENTS SIGNED: The Bucs signed 12 free agents, including four linebackers. The additions: former University of Miami and Dixie Hollins defensive back Markese Fitzgerald, Florida defensive back Bennie Alexander, Missouri and Tampa Robinson running back Zain Gilmore, Virginia punter Mike Abrams, Oklahoma guard Howard Duncan, Georgia long snapper Andy Hogan, UCLA linebacker Ryan Nece, Southwest Texas State linebacker Sterling Rogers, N.C. State defensive end Corey Smith, Indiana linebacker Justin Smith, Memphis safety Glenn Sumter and Kentucky linebacker Jamal White.

-- ROGER MILLS, RICK STROUD