Buccaneers mini-camp practice: Running backs and quarterbacks

Injuries

Carl Nicks hopes to be ready for training camp. Lovie called that "realistic" in his press conference.

Mark Barron, Dashon Goldson, Da'Quan Bowers, Anthony Gaitor, Russell Shepard, Mike James and Michael Smith were all held out of practice, per Greg Auman and Pewter Report.

Practice notes

It looks like Leonard Johnson, D.J. Moore and Deveron Carr will compete to be the nickel cornerback, according to Greg Auman.

Greg Auman notes that Oniel Cousins, Patrick Omameh and Jason Foster got reps at guard, besides starter Jamon Meredith.

Pewter Report called Josh McCown "razor sharp" and in sync with the wide receivers, and they noted that Doug Martin, Jeff Demps and Bobby Rainey all looked good at running back. They note the offense seems focused on quick throws.

Chris Owusu ran with the first team, according to Roy Cummings, who also notes that Eric Page took most of the reps as a punt returner.

Jeff Demps is focusing on football this year, has gained 15 lbs, and is working as a kick returner, running back and receiver, according to Pewter Report.

Lovie Smith's press conference

Lovie Smith noted that there was 100% attendance, noting that if you want to get better, why would you not be there? There were a few mistakes with the high tempo during minicamp, but Smith praised Mike Glennon's performance today when asked. He also praised the running backs, noting that "all three will get some playing time.

When asked about the defensive performance, Lovie Smith went off on a bit of tangent praising both Gerald McCoy and Lavonte David into the high heavens.