Cornerback Davis among four signees
The Bucs on Tuesday signed cornerback Sammy Davis, a first-round pick (30th overall) of the Chargers in 2003 who was traded to the 49ers last season.
By RICK STROUD
Published March 14, 2007
TAMPA - The Bucs on Tuesday signed cornerback Sammy Davis, a first-round pick (30th overall) of the Chargers in 2003 who was traded to the 49ers last season.
Davis, 26, played in 13 games with one start last season, totaling 30 tackles and six passes defensed. He joins a long list of signed cornerbacks, including Ronde Barber, Brian Kelly, Phillip Buchanon and Torrie Cox. With Kelly expected to return from a turf toe injury next season, there should be a good battle for the nickelback spot with Juran Bolden, who also could be asked to move to safety.
The Bucs also announced the signing of 49ers free-agent defensive tackle Lance Legree, former Raiders defensive tackle Kenny Smith and receiver Levon Thomas, a member of the Saints practice squad the past two seasons.
Meanwhile, former Titans guard Zach Piller, a St. Petersburg native, visited the Bucs on Tuesday but was not offered a contract. Pillar has started 58 of 87 games. The Bucs have expressed an interest in Broncos guard Cooper Carlisle, but no visit has been scheduled, according to his agent, Frank Murtha. Tampa Bay is looking for a guard to replace Sean Mahan, who signed with the Steelers.
Carolina free-agent linebacker Chris Draft is scheduled to visit Thursday. The Bucs could be looking for a middle linebacker to replace Shelton Quarles, who might be forced to retire because of health concerns.
The Bucs might want to cross one free agent off their list. Seahawks tight end Jerramy Stevens, who visited the Bucs last week, was arrested Tuesday in Scottsdale, Ariz., and charged with driving under the influence and possession of marijuana.
Fired Bucs defensive backs coach Greg Burns has been hired to coach the same position with Kansas State.