Buccaneers say they’re after Law

Thursday, June 30, 2005 | 10 a.m.

SUN WIRE SERVICES

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are trying to make room for another veteran cornerback with a Super Bowl ring.

Three of them, to be exact.

Patriots cornerback Ty Law has received a contract proposal that was faxed from the Bucs.

General manager Bruce Allen did not specify what role he envisions Law, 31, would play in Tampa Bay.

"He's one of several free agents we're looking at," Allen said Wednesday night.

When asked how signing Law would affect Bucs starting cornerbacks Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly, Allen said, "He's just one of many. We're looking for players at every position."

The courting of Law comes at a time when the Bucs are trying to clear about $6-million from the payroll for their rookie salary pool to sign 12 draft picks.

And with all the concerns the Bucs may have heading into the season, the cornerback position doesn't appear to be one of them.

Barber, an All-Pro last season, has expressed dissatisfaction over being the 27th highest-paid cornerback when free agency began. He has two seasons remaining on a six-year contract that averages $3 million and will earn $3.75 million in 2005.

Kelly, who has four years remaining on his contract, is scheduled to earn $2.4-million in base salary. The Bucs also signed Jaguars free agent Juran Bolden to be their nickel back.

Despite coming off a serious injury, Law may be seeking a deal in excess of either Bucs starting cornerback.

Law says the Jaguars, Jets, Dolphins, Chiefs and Colts also have expressed an interest.

"Tampa Bay faxed me an offer," Law told SI.com recently. "Indianapolis is in it. I got an offer, sight unseen, for $2.5 million for one year. If I wasn't ready, I'd just take it. But I'm going to be ready to play and that's not the kind of contract I should get."

Law suffered a fractured left foot against the Steelers last Halloween, which eventually healed late in the season. He played seven games and recorded just one interception before being released in February, ending a 10-year relationship with New England. Law was scheduled to make more than $10 million in salary and incentives this season.

"I wasn't shocked when I heard the verdict," Suggs said Wednesday. "You all have watched me grow up here. I've never once been in trouble."

Suggs, who left Arizona State early, was the No. 10 pick in the 2003 NFL draft.

He said accuser Jeryme Cook was trying to lay the groundwork to sue for damages.

"That used to be my best friend, so why -- unless he did something to me -- would I try to harm him?" Suggs said. "We played on the Arizona Swat team, basketball team, we spent the night at each other's houses. He walked one path, and I walked another."

The Maricopa County Superior Court jury acquitted Suggs of one count of aggravated assault. Another felony assault count was filed after the incident March 29, 2003, but it was dismissed last week.

Edwards entered the pleas Wednesday to the two misdemeanor charges, the court said today in Southfield, Mich. Because of the pleas, a felony charge of resisting and obstructing police was amended to the disorderly charge.

46th District Court Judge Shelia Johnson sentenced Edwards to the probation, to be served through the Oakland County First Offenders program, the court said. He also was ordered to pay $820 in fines and court costs.

archive