Bucs sign Blount to one-year deal, wait for Barber’s decision

Tampa, FL, United States (4E Sports) – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have re-signed backup running back LeGarrette Blount to a one-year contract asked defensive back Ronde Barber to return for a 17th season.

A league source said the Bucs signed Blount to a $1.75 million deal, including $1.25 million in base salary and another $500,000 in reporting and workout bonuses, before he turned restricted free agent Tuesday.

Blount started in his first two seasons but was relegated to a backup role after the Bucs drafted Doug Martin in the first round last year. Last season, Blount carried only 41 times for 151 yards.

Meanwhile, the Bucs have been encouraging Barber, who has yet to make a decision on returning or retiring.

“Coach (Greg) Schiano and I met with Ronde this past week and expressed our desire for him to return to play another season with the Buccaneers,” general manager Mark Dominik said Saturday.

“He asked us for some time to make his decision and we certainly respect that,” Dominik added.

Presently, the Bucs have Mark Barron as their strong safety while Ahmad Black could start if Barber retires.

Last season, the Bucs had to wait for Barber to make a decision to retire or return for another season.

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