Josh Freeman is a free man. The conclusion to weeks of drama surrounding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback has finally been drawn up and ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Freeman has officially been released by the team. The solution was predictable and truly the only option to satisfy both parties.
For those that need a quick recap of the events that led to the release, try to follow along. Freeman failed to get a new contract in the offseason as Tampa Bay wanted him to play out the final year of his rookie deal and earn bigger money. As insurance, they drafted Mike Glennon, leading many to believe Freeman's time in Tampa was done before the season even starter. Then he failed to get voted captain, causing head coach Greg Schiano to be accused of tampering with the votes. The bad relationship between Freeman and Schiano escalated from there with a war of words. Freeman was bench. Schiano reportedly leaked confidential drug information. The Buccaneers searched for a trade and now Freeman is release. Catch all that? In the words of Ron Burgundy, "That escalated quickly."
The Buccaneers are 0-4 and in desperate need of shaking things up. Many blamed Freeman for the winless start, but it is clear the entire organization needs a makeover. While Tampa Bay works to shake things up, Freeman is now left doing the same thing.
This situation favors the quarterback because he is now in control of his own destiny. Freeman has had stints of success. In 2010, he threw 25 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He broke franchise records. However he followed that up by tossing 39 picks between 2011 and 2012. This season has not looked that much better. Some believe the Buccaneers were creating a smear campaign against Freeman. In an interview with NBC's Pro Football Talk, tackle Donald Penn was concerned the quarterback's reputation has been tarnished.
"It's just real tough. I feel bad for Josh being put in this situation," Penn said. "You know, the stuff that came out yesterday [regarding Freeman's status in the league's substance-abuse program]and stuff like that, it's like they're really trying to bring him down and Josh is a great guy. Josh is a very humble spirit. He's a very good guy. He's a very good person and he really cares about him teammates and cares about his team."
So where does Freeman land? The obvious option is Jacksonville. Blaine Gabbert is not the quarterback of the future, nor is Chad Henne. If the team drafts offensive linemen, Freeman could help turn the team around. Another option is Cleveland. Brian Hoyer and Brandon Weeden are the best options for the team right now and that is not saying much. They have a decent line and Freeman has a strong arm that could fit.
The issue will be Freeman's contract. Right now, the Jaguars are obligated to pay him over $6 million at the end of the season. Team's must be willing to take on the salary, something that is highly unlikely. There is a good chance Freeman does not play the remainder of the season, but could see someone pick him up come next year. Either way, he is free from Tampa Bay and the drama is over.
