Q: The Bucs say they haven't released John Lynch, but also say he's not coming back. What is his official status?
A: Lynch remains on the Bucs roster, but has been told he will not be with the team in 2004. He is free to negotiate with other teams, in hopes of arranging a trade between the Bucs and the new team, but it's also possible the Bucs could just release Lynch.
Q: What factors went into this decision?
A: Lynch, an 11-year pro, will turn 33 in September. He recently had neck surgery to alleviate recurring pain and "stingers" that forced him to miss two games last season. There seems to be some disagreement between Lynch and the Bucs about how the injury could affect his future.
The Bucs also are looking for room under the salary cap to sign free agents. Lynch is due to make $4.1-million in base salary in 2004 and $5-million in 2005, the final year of his contract.
Jermaine Phillips, a second-year player who started eight games last season in the Bucs' injury-riddled secondary, is a favorite of Bucs coaches and is expected to take over the strong safety position. Phillips will make $380,000 this season.
Q: What is the status of Lynch's injury?
A: Lynch, who had surgery Jan. 12, has clearance from his doctor and expects to make a healthy return to football. The Bucs seem to have doubts.
Q: How much salary cap money will be freed up when Lynch is traded or released?
A: About $4.16-million.
Q: Who will the Bucs sign with that extra money?
A: Though active during the first week of free agency, the Bucs have several needs, including a big-play receiver. Defensive tackle Warren Sapp remains a free agent, and the Bucs could use the cap space to pursue him.
Q: What will Lynch do?
A: Look for a new team. The most likely suitor is the New York Jets, where former Bucs assistant Herm Edwards is the coach and the team has a desperate need for safeties. Lynch is the godfather to Edwards' only child and, according to ESPN.com, Edwards called Lynch's agent, David Dunn, as soon as he heard the news. Indianapolis, coached by former Bucs coach Tony Dungy, is a possibility. Lynch might want to play for his hometown San Diego Chargers, but said Thursday his priority was finding a team with a chance to win a championship, and the Chargers don't appear to be ready.
Q: What is the timetable for Lynch's departure?
A: According to Bucs general manager Bruce Allen, Lynch and Dunn will lead the way with negotiations. "It's up to him," Allen said.
Q: Why would a team trade something of value for Lynch knowing the Bucs have no intention of keeping him for 2004?
A: Just like the situation with Keyshawn Johnson, who is still on the Buccaneers roster, a team interested in Lynch could gamble the Bucs will release him, but that would make Lynch a free agent. The best way for an interested team to ensure it gets Lynch is to avoid free agency and make a trade.
Q: Lynch was the defensive captain. Who will replace him?
A: The likely candidate is linebacker Derrick Brooks, a nine-year pro and seven-time Pro Bowl selection. But that will be determined by a vote of the defensive players during preseason.
Q: Statistically, where does Lynch rank all-time for the Bucs?
A: Lynch played 173 games for the Bucs, second only to Paul Gruber's 183. Lynch also ranked third in tackles with 856, trailing only linebackers Brooks (1,378) and Hardy Nickerson (1,028). Lynch's 24 career interceptions are fourth, seven behind leader Donnie Abraham.
