Bucs headed in a 'new direction'

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

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Derrick Brooks went to 11 Pro Bowls as a Buccaneer, the most recent being this season.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- It appears a new era has begun for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In a sweeping move, the team has released veterans Derrick Brooks, Warrick Dunn, Joey Galloway, Ike Hilliard and Cato June.

In a cost-cutting move that signals the likely beginning of a rebuilding phase, the team has released the veterans.

Four of the five players were starters last year. All are in their 30s, except June, who is 29.

"There's never an adequate time to make these types of decisions. Unfortunately, we've been put in a role as decision makers and we've made a big one today," said coach Raheem Morris, at a news conference Wednesday afternoon at One Buccaneer Place.

The move appears to be a continuing of team's new start. Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen were fired last month as coach and general manager, respectively.

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Former Buccaneer defensive backs coach Raheem Morris was hired as coach and longtime front office worker Mark Dominik was promoted to general manager.

"All these guys are rare talents," Morris said. "They mean a lot to everyone in this building. We're thankful to everything they've given us. I wouldn't be in the position I am in today without these players."

Dominik said Wednesday that the move is part of the team's plan to give its younger guys a chance to play.

Brooks, who turns 36 next month, was a first round draft pick of the Bucs in 1995. He played in more games than any other Buccaneer and never missed a game in his NFL career.

The 2002 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Brooks played in 11 Pro Bowls, including the most recent all star game held on Feb. 8. Brooks is widely considered a future Hall of Famer.

Meanwhile, Dunn's second tenure with the Bucs ends after just one season.

"I am thankful for my Tampa Bay Buccaneer experience - in its entirety,' said Dunn, who played for the Bucs from 1997 to 2001 before coming back last season. "It all started here and now in my second term I know I have been blessed to be a Tampa Bay Buccaneer in the NFL. I am thankful for the ownership, coaching, every teammate and especially the fans who have been with me through the highs and lows.'

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