Lovie Smith is working to have "his guys" on the roster for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That started by releasing Darrelle Revis and Mike Williams while bringing on Josh McCown at quarterback. Smith has already named McCown the starter heading into offseason workouts over Mike Glennon, but is also seeking a rookie in the draft. McCown, understanding the bigger picture, says he ready to mentor the future starter for the Buccaneers.
McCown understands that he is not going to be the face of the Buccaneers franchise. At 34, he is the oldest player on the roster. However, he serves a big purpose, acting as a stop-gap player so Tampa Bay can develop the next future star of the team. The Buccaneers are busy bringing in all of the top options in this years' draft and McCown is ready to act as a mentor to anyone selected.
"They all seem like nice kids. They look so young," McCown said, via the Tamp Bay Times. "It was cool to say hello to them; just briefly with Johnny (Manziel) and Teddy (Bridgewater) and Jimmy (Garoppolo). Just, 'Hey. How's it going?' and wish them well. It's funny. You look at them, and you think back a few years and remember how fast it can go. This is ... easily the longest year of your career. From combine to the end of your rookie season is just a long year. You're excited, but it can be draining and very emotional."
McCown expects Tampa Bay to draft a quarterback at No. 7 and notes that any one of those players would be a worthy pick. However, just because another quarterback option is coming in does not mean McCown loses his mindset for the season. He is fully prepared to start Week One for the team over Glennon or anyone else. While Glennon is hoping to get considered as a starter for the upcoming season, Smith is prepared to hand the offense over to McCown no matter what.
"He won't get the credit for being the athlete that he is. He brings mobility to the position. He makes good decisions," Smith said. "As I looked at (free agents), I said, 'Who is available that I think can help us win football games?' What Josh displayed last year was that. I know a lot has been said about his leadership, but I'm talking about his play on the football field. I feel pretty good - confident - about the type of play we're going to get from him."