The Checkdown

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Posted 02.27.09 | 2:02 PM

Bucs' off-season odessey rolls on

Winslow trade lastest move for Tampa Bay
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By Anthony May
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First, they fired Jon Gruden and promoted Raheem Morris. Then they went scissor-happy, cutting Derrick Brooks, Warrick Dunn, Joey Galloway, Ike Hilliard and Cato June. They franchised Antonio Bryant and now, they've traded for Kellen Winslow... and it's not even March.

It makes me wonder, "Do they even have a plan in Tampa?"

Sure, the acquisition of Winslow brings a potentially potent weapon to their offense, but the oft-injured, occasionally-troubled former-Brown is only one piece of Tampa's puzzle. Jeff Garcia is still going to be the one throwing to him, or will it be Luke McCown? And the rest of the receiving core? Maurice Stovall? Dexter Jackson?

And what about their backfield; the departure of Dunn leaves just Cadillac Williams and Earnest Graham, who both spent chunks of last season hobbled.

They haven't announced which picks Cleveland will be receiving as compensation (probably a second- or third-round choice), but they've definitely faired better in this deal; They've rid themselves of a Winslow's routine distractions, secured an extra draft pick or two and they've created an opportunity for second-year TE Martin Rucker, who they took with their fourth pick in the 2008 draft.

Look for the analysts to pour over Winslow's short career, contrasting his tremendous potential with the problems he's encountered (or created). Also, look for talk on how the Brown's new leadership - namely GM George Kokinis and coach Eric Mangini - are re-tooling their team. 

Thoughts on what the Bucs will look like next year? How will Winslow react to the change in venue? How 'bout the Browns? Get your comment on.
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