TAMPA - Defensive tackle Oliver Gibson, who signed Friday, practiced with his new team for the first time Sunday and said he's eager to get acclimated to the defensive scheme.
The Bucs were interested in Gibson during the free-agency period, but the 6-foot-2, 310-pounder signed with the Bills. He was released last week and wasted little time flying to Tampa.
"Strange things happen," Gibson said. "This is where I wanted to be. I love the way these guys play football. They are fast and I always wanted to be on a very fast defense. Also, I want to win a lot of games. I know these guys are a talented bunch."
Vulnerable to the power running game last year, the Bucs tried to add beef to the defensive line by signing Darrell Russell. But Russell was released after failing to live up to the terms of his contract (he later was suspended by the league for violating its substance-abuse policy) and the Bucs have been looking for veteran depth in the middle.
Gibson, who played four seasons with the Steelers and the past five with the Bengals, will get a chance to fill the void.
"He's a nose tackle and a guy we looked at a little bit in the offseason when he was with the Bengals and he chose to go with Buffalo," coach Jon Gruden said. "He's a big guy and has shown that he's a physical presence in there rushing the passer and against the run. So, we'll see. (Tackle) Ellis Wyms has been hurt and (defensive end Greg) Spires has been out and so we'll try to get him some snaps and get him game ready this week."
BACK ON THE FIELD: With two preseason games left, the Bucs got encouraging news about a number of veterans who have been injured.
Running back Charlie Garner, linebacker Jeff Gooch and right guard Matt Stinchcomb returned to practice and likely will play Saturday against Miami. Receiver Charles Lee also returned, though in a limited role. Linebacker Derrick Brooks (left knee sprain) did not practice but could return today.
Gruden said he would like to see Garner get a few carries but isn't worried.
"I've been around him enough to know that the way he practices and the way he gets himself ready is somewhat unique," Gruden said. "When he's ready, he'll get some carries in the preseason. At the same time, I want to see more from Jamel White, I want to see more from Earnest Graham and I'd like to see Mike Pittman take some hits and play because he's going to be gone for a few weeks."
WAITING ON DEESE: The Bucs have been singing the praises of second-year left tackle Anthony Davis, who has been in the starting lineup while veteran Derrick Deese is out. But the plans are to start the season with Deese, who has missed considerable time recovering from surgery for bone spurs in his foot.
"I've been concerned," Gruden said. "He had surgery when he got here. He's had another surgery. I'm confident he'll come back. Dr. (John) Zvijac, who has done a lot of these surgeries, tells me the time is nearing. We have to try to be patient because Derrick will be back here shortly. In the time being, we roll our fists up and do the best we can without him."
