Bucs' Davis signs new deal

By ERNEST HOOPER

© St. Petersburg Times, published July 1, 2000

TAMPA -- The waiting game paid off Friday for Bucs backup linebacker Don Davis when he signed a one-year contract with the team.

Davis became a free agent at the end of the 1999 season, but continued to work out at One Buc Place with the understanding the team would try to fit him under the salary cap before training camp began July 23.

Although he did not have a contract, Davis continued to attend the minicamp and practices by signing a waiver.

The faith he showed in the team was rewarded with the deal he received. Terms were not released, but the contract will keep the fifth-year veteran in Tampa Bay for another year.

Last season, he was second on the team in special teams tackles with 21. He has averaged more than one special teams tackle over his four-year career (49 in 45 games).

Davis played 2 1/2 seasons for New Orleans before being waived five games into the 1998 campaign. He was signed by Tampa Bay and played in the final five games of that season.

© St. Petersburg Times. All rights reserved.

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