Sports - New Orleans Saints

Friday, Feb. 27, 2009

Bucs could be after WR Henderson, too

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers flirted with wide receiver Devery Henderson before Henderson decided to re-sign with the New Orleans Saints for a one-year deal last offseason. The Bucs are thought to be interested in Henderson once again as the Saints receiver hit free agency last night, according to two agents. Yet it's not known if the two sides have been in contact. Tampa Bay has already cut ties with Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard, while Michael Clayton wasn't re-signed before the start of free agency. The Bucs did hang onto one wideout as they franchise tagged Antonio Bryant. Henderson started in 13 of his 16 games in 2008 catching 32 passes for 793 yards and three touchdowns. Henderson easily led the NFL in yards per catch last season averaging 24.8 a reception, which makes sense considering his blazing speed and deep-threat ability. The Bucs are considered a big player in the free agent market as they sit around $60 million under the salary cap. There are several reports also linking the Bucs with middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma. Vilma is the Saints' top priority in free agency where new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams hopes Vilma can anchor the defense for the next several years.

Read more in Saturday's Sun Herald.