Bucs re-sign Barber

By ERNEST HOOPER

© St. Petersburg Times, published June 14, 2000

Cornerback Ronde Barber on Tuesday became the sixth Bucs restricted free agent to re-sign.

Barber signed a one-year deal. Terms were not disclosed, but it is believed he will receive $472,000, the amount the Bucs made as a qualifying offer when the free agency period began in February.

As did all free agents, Barber had until April10 to field offers, which the Bucs had the right to match. After that date, he could negotiate only with Tampa Bay.

The 1997 third-round pick played in only one regular-season game as a rookie. But he played in the division playoff against Green Bay, and his confidence and performance grew.

Since 1998 Barber has started 24 of 32 games, including 15 in 1999, when he had a career-high 74 tackles, 16 passes defensed and two interceptions.

Of seven restricted free agents, only tight end Patrick Hape is unsigned. Hape had foot surgery last week but is expected to be ready to play when training camp begins July23 at the University of Tampa.

© St. Petersburg Times. All rights reserved.

Headlines

Americans Lose in 1st Round of Davis Cup

---