Typically day one of the league year aka the opening of the free agency period typically generates a big yawn from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fanbase. Afterall, they've been trained to know that while other teams will go after the big names in free agency, the Bucs management usually pick up the leftovers.
Not tonight.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a huge splash in the 2012 free agency class, signing the top offensive player not named Peyton Manning available, former San Diego WR Vincent Jackson.
The Bucs dispelled any myth of cash flow issues, delivering a 5 year $55,555,555.55 ocho cinco deal to the outstanding receiver. The crazy fives were a nod to QB Josh Freeman who sports number five. This was clearly a move to surround their young quarterback with talent.
That's not all that involved the Bucs on day one, though.
Rumors are rampant the Bucs not only will part ways with veteran center Jeff Faine, but they apparently shopped TE Kellen Winslow, Jr. as well.
It's possible, since the Bucs have been connected to Bucs DE Michael Bennet's brother, TE Martellus Bennett as well as Seattle TE John Carlson.
In addition, the rumors were rampant the Bucs had completed a deal with MLB Curtis Lofton but it appears something drastically changed during the negotiation process. Word on the street is Lofton requested a $9 million dollar deal. If Lofton doesn't lower his demands, the Bucs will likely move on. Stephen Tulloch and David Hawthorne remain options.
Meanwhile, Saints All-Pro guard Carl Nicks is believed to be in Tampa and could sign with the Buccaneers as soon as tonight. His signing could lead to Faine's release, as Jeremy Zuttah would move to Center.
The Bucs have also been connected with Lions CB Eric Wright, Chargers RB Mike Tolbert and Cincinnati safety Reggie Nelson.
Another player the Bucs were connected to, Titans CB Cortland Finnegan, signed with the Rams, ending hopes for a "dream team" signing on Monday.
In the end, Bucs fans have to happy with today's developments. For the first time in a very long time, their team's ownership is showing a desire to spend some money to bring a winner back to Tampa Bay.