The Tampa Bay Buccaneers filled a big void on their offensive line by signing tackle Gosder Cherilus on Monday, the team announced. The contract is for two years and $7 million, according to ESPN's Ed Werder. The 6'7, 316-pound tackle was brought in following the injury of Demar Dotson in the first preseason game against the Vikings.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers sign OT Gosder Cherilus to a 2-year deal
The Bucs added a seasoned vet to help protect quarterback Jameis Winston.
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Cherilus was a two-year starter for the Indianapolis Colts, but was released a month ago because of salary cap issues. The Colts signed Cherilus to a five-year deal worth $35 million back in 2013, making him one of the highest-paid tackles in the game. He played through knee and groin issues throughout the 2014 season, and spent the offseason recovering from knee surgery after missing the playoffs. He's said to be healthy and could quickly be a starter for his new team in 2015.
Cherilus is reportedly receiving $2.5 million for this season and $4.5 million next year.
The seven-year veteran has been a starter ever since he was drafted in 2008. The Bucs are hoping for leadership for a young tackle group that includes mostly one- and two-year players. Adding someone with 100 NFL starts could be a huge boost for Tampa Bay.
Cherilus took a visit to Tampa Bay and decided right away that was where he wanted to sign. Cherilus also made visits to Detroit and Buffalo before agreeing to the deal.
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