Brooks, Dunn done in Tampa Bay
Posted: Wed Feb 25, 2009 7:44 pm
Linebacker Derrick Brooks, one of the greatest players in Tampa Bay Buccaneers history, was released Wednesday along with four other veterans.
Brooks is an 11-time Pro Bowler and a potential Hall of Famer. Wide receivers Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard, halfback Warrick Dunn and linebacker Cato June were also released.
"Our family and the entire Tampa Bay community owe Derrick an indescribable measure of gratitude for all that he has meant over the last 14 years," Bucs co-chairman Bryan Glazer said in a statement. "His play on the field and leadership in the locker room helped resurrect our franchise and we look forward to celebrating his certain enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame."
With Raheem Morris taking over for Jon Gruden, the Bucs are apparently starting a youth movement and a major change in philosophies. They are also getting away from the Cover 2 defensive scheme that had been employed by former Bucs defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin.
Jim Bates has taken over the defense and is changing the style. In the Cover 2, Brooks was considered the perfect weakside linebacker. He was quick enough to cover the field and make most of the tackles.
He was a first-round pick of the Bucs in 1995 and never missed a game. He had 25 interceptions during his 14-year career in Tampa Bay.
I can't understand how they can release Brooks?!