TAMPA — Free agency began with an ending as seven-time Pro Bowl guard Logan Mankins informed the Bucs he was retiring Monday. Though not a surprise, the team began the process of trying to acquire more veteran linemen to protect franchise quarterback Jameis Winston.
Meanwhile, Seahawks guard J.R. Sweezy also got attention from the Bucs and Jaguars. Sweezy, 26, has started at least 15 games the past three seasons for Seattle, the majority at right guard.
The Bucs have $57.4 million in salary cap space, fourth-most in the NFL. The two-day legal tampering period of free agency began Monday.