Posted on Jul 24
Tampa Bay Buccaneers dealing with absence of Randy Gregory, coach Todd Bowles addresses the situation internally.
u/alex •
TAMPA, FL -- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers find themselves grappling with the absence of outside linebacker Randy Gregory, who has failed to report with the veterans and has been placed on the reserve/did not report list. His absence raises concerns for the team as they navigate the challenges of training camp and prepare for the upcoming season.
Gregory's unexcused absences during mandatory minicamp resulted in a hefty fine of $101,356. This penalty was imposed by the Buccaneers following the guidelines set forth in the NFL's collective bargaining agreement. The league also warned Gregory that failure to report to training camp would incur a daily fine of $50,000.
In an unexpected turn of events, Randy Gregory has filed a lawsuit against the NFL and the Denver Broncos, alleging discrimination. Gregory claims that he was denied access to a prescription drug necessary for managing his social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. The lawsuit adds an additional layer of complexity to his absence and raises questions about the impact it may have on his future with the Buccaneers.
Although Randy Gregory was not slated to start for the Buccaneers, his absence leaves a void in the team's rotational role plans. The Buccaneers had selected outside linebacker Chris Braswell in the second round of the NFL draft to compete for the starting job, but Gregory's absence creates uncertainty within the linebacker corps.
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles addressed the situation, stating that the team would handle Gregory's absence internally. When questioned about the impact of Gregory's absence, Bowles expressed confidence in the depth at the position and the ability of the players present to step up and perform.
"We're going to talk about the players that are here. He's not here. We'll deal with that internally. And obviously he's on the do not report list, and we'll go from there," said Bowles in response to Gregory's absence.
Bowles further emphasized, "Well, we never had him to begin with. He hasn't been here, so we've been OK with the depth we've got. We've got some guys that can play, and we're going to get 'em ready to play."
As the situation unfolds, the Buccaneers will continue to monitor Randy Gregory's absence and make decisions in the best interest of the team. The impact of his unresolved legal matters and ongoing absence raises questions about his future with the organization. The Buccaneers, however, remain committed to focusing on the players present and preparing for the upcoming season.
It remains to be seen how this absence will affect the team's defensive strategy and overall performance. As training camp progresses, the Buccaneers will adapt and adjust, seeking to maximize the potential of the linebackers at their disposal.