By Tom Krasniqi
The glow from the 38-10 Bucs win over the Chiefs was marred by the Aqib Talib suspension. Talib began serving his 4-game suspension after testing positive for a banned substance. He’s eligible to return on November 5.
Question is: Will the Bucs welcome him back with open arms? During his Monday press conference, head coach Greg Schiano seemed to indicate that Talib will be back. “Yeah, he’s going to be back with us”, Schiano said Monday. “That’s the plan, yes. We’re going to move forward at that point”.
“Every decision we’re making is strictly for one reason, and that it’s best for the organization”, says Schiano. Schiano went on to say: “We are going to do what’s best for the organization which is going to best for everybody. You gotta just trust us on this one”.
What does that mean at this point is anybody’s guess. It’s possible the Bucs could take a wait-and-see approach over the next month to see if E.J. Biggers is up to the task of playing opposite Eric Wright at cornerback. If Biggers bombs, then the team could welcome Talib back.
In the locker room on Monday, several players declined to comment on Talib’s suspension. When asked, defensive tackle Gerald McCoy just shook his head and that spoke volumes. There was a sense of great disappointment and frustration over Talib letting down the team….again.
News & Notes:
- Expect the Bucs to activate DE Da’Quan Bowers from the PUP list. Schiano says Bowers will practice in some capacity with the team on Wednesday. The team is confident that Bowers will be able to play at some point this season.
- Schiano says he saw “some really good things” from Jamon Meredith at right guard in the Chiefs game.
- Carl Nicks was in a walking boot on Monday but he’s expected to play against his former team next week.
- Gerald McCoy called Saints QB Drew Brees “the King of chess players” in terms of manipulating the defense. McCoy worked out with Brees in the offseason.
- The team is off Tuesday and will return to practice on Wednesday.
