Buccaneers sign CB Robert McClain to one year deal

The Buccaneers added some depth to the cornerback corps by signing former Falcon and Panther Robert McClain.

It’s another player familiar with Dirk Koetter and Mike Smith, but the Buccaneers adding Robert McClain to the roster is a solid depth move that was made today, the first day teams can sign free agents that don’t count against compensatory draft picks.

Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times was the first to report it;

McClain, a seventh round pick in 2010, fits the “Bucs mold” of corners – short, athletic players with speed and quickness. Over his career with the Panthers, Falcons, and Chargers, McClain has 23 starts, 228 tackles, four interceptions, four fumble recoveries, and twenty-three passes defended.

McClain was certainly excited about the next chapter in his story;

With Brent Grimes and Vernon Hargreaves cemented as the starters, McClain will compete with Jude Adjei-Barimah and Javien Elliott for the nickel corner position as well as provide depth behind Grimes and VHIII. His experience under Smith – especially at nickel corner – bodes well for his chances of making the team as well as getting playing time.

Fifteen of McClain’s twenty-three career starts came under Smith in Atlanta who found the best way to utilize and maximize his talents during their three seasons together. McClain marks the eighth former Falcon to join the Buccaneers from the Smith/Koetter era, joining Brent Grimes, Joe Hawley, Jacquizz Rodgers, Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Sean Renfree, and James Stone.

Though he hasn’t had a stellar career, he’s made the best of his opportunities including going from a free agent in December 2015 to being a starter in Super Bowl 50 with the Carolina Panthers. McClain also has a pick-six off Jameis Winston under his belt.

Next: Buccaneers UDFA Profile: Jonathan Moxey

McClain was added to the spot vacated by the Buccaneers waiving Greg Mabin on Monday after rookie mini-camp was completed.