Bucs Continue Steussie Pursuit
By IRA KAUFMAN
ikaufman@tampatrib.com
Published: Mar 14, 2004
TAMPA - The overhaul of Tampa Bay's starting offensive line is expected to be completed this week with the addition of durable left tackle Todd Steussie, recently released by the NFC champion Panthers in a cost-cutting move.
Even as the Bucs announced the signing of free-agent punter Josh Bidwell on Saturday and attempted to finalize contract terms with ex-Ravens cornerback Tom Knight, General Manager Bruce Allen kept Steussie in his sights.
``I'd be very surprised if Steussie ended up anywhere else but Tampa,'' said a rival NFC executive. ``The Bucs are in the driver's seat.''
Steussie, 33, has missed only one game in his 10-year NFL career with Minnesota and Carolina. Although other teams are interested in the 6- foot-6, 308-pound veteran, Tampa Bay is considered the front-runner.
If Steussie signs, as expected, the Bucs are likely to feature four new starters along the offensive line, with center John Wade returning as the only holdover.
Tackle Derrick Deese and guard Matt Stinchcomb have already been added as free agents and the right guard spot, formerly held by Cosey Coleman, is expected to feature competition between Jason Whittle and new free agent addition Matt O'Dwyer.
Although Steussie's play has dropped from his former Pro Bowl level and holding penalties are beginning to creep in, he fits the mauler profile preferred by offensive line coach Bill Muir. His addition likely would signal the end of the Kenyatta Walker era in Tampa after three seasons.
Neither Allen nor Bucs coach Jon Gruden could be reached for comment.
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