Report: Bucs almost traded McCoy before release

Not to continue to beat the dead horse here, but at least this is better than just talking about Gerald McCoy as if he’s still here.

Many wanted something in return instead of just flat out releasing the veteran defensive tackle and it looks like the Buccaneers tried to do so right before they parted ways. At least that’s what Pewter Report’s Mark Cook is reporting.

Per Cook, the Bucs were close to a trade involving McCoy and picks in return but something happened that eventually led to the team just releasing him.

A league source told PewterReport.com that Tampa Bay and an undisclosed team were very close to a trade deal that would have sent McCoy to that team for a draft pick or picks, but the deal fell through in the 11th hour. The Cleveland Browns, which are hosting McCoy on his first free agent visit, had been the most linked team to McCoy this offseason in terms of interest, but PewterReport.com can also confirm it was not the Browns that the Bucs were dealing with in regards to a possible trade.

So there you have it. The Bucs tried, for what it’s worth. It’s unclear what the demands were but at least they were exhausting all possibilities before they just let him go for nothing.

As for McCoy’s next move, BucsNation.com expects his new deal to be in the $8-million range with incentives and Cleveland may be the team that gives it to him. Previous reports of “offers” north of $10-million seem to have been leaked by his agent to drive up his price and negotiations.

For those still interested in the former Buc, his visit with the Cleveland Browns went “great” and is still committed to visit the Ravens on Tuesday.