On Sunday, the Chicago Bears released cornerback Tim Jennings. Today, Jennings will visit One Buc Place to meet with his former Bears and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith.
After spending the last five years with the Bears where he made back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances (2012-13), Jennings’ role was greatly diminished this season, to the point where he was fighting in the preseason to keep a slot corner position.
What makes this move by the Bears more shocking is the fact that the team re-signed the 31-year-old defensive back to a four-year, $22 million contract prior to the 2014 season. However, their loss may be the Buccaneers’ gain.
Judging from the signings of safety Chris Conte and defensive lineman Henry Melton, Lovie has an affinity towards adding his former Bears players, especially those who have a strong understanding of the Tampa 2 scheme.
Before the start of training camp, the Buccaneers were expected to make Leonard Johnson their slot cornerback. However, the combination of injuries and underwhelming performances forced the team to part ways with Johnson as they tried to get the roster down to 75 players. His departure has left the Bucs with a glaring hole at the position. But, it is one which Jennings can fill.
According to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, the visit has come and gone with both sides failing to come to an agreement on a contract.
Just got off the phone with CB Tim Jennings. He said he visited with the #Bucs already this morning. Said he’s resting now.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 1, 2015
Even in his early 30s, the 10-year veteran could provide any team with a serviceable defensive back. Jennings may want to weigh out all of his options before coming to a decision. In a conversation with Anderson, Jennings revealed what he’s looking for in his next NFL team.
"“It’s all going to start up front. I think with a great defensive line that is going to get after the quarterback, that is going to give me the ability to do what I go, which is reading quarterbacks and reading the routes. Being able to dissect certain routes knowing the ball has to come out and use my anticipation and quickness…The style of defense definitely matters, so it is going to be interesting.”"
Does this sound like the Bucs to you?
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