TAMPA — Needing to replace one of their most experienced offensive linemen, the Bucs moved quickly Monday to sign tackle Gosder Cherilus, who has played for the Lions and Colts, and has 100 NFL starts.
Cherilus, 31, agreed to terms on an incentive-laden two-year deal worth $7 million. He is expected to replace Demar Dotson, the starting right tackle who sprained his left MCL in Saturday's 26-16 preseason loss at Minnesota. Dotson could miss 8-10 weeks.
The likely in-house replacement would've been Kevin Pamphile, who has only two NFL starts. Tampa Bay already is likely to start rookies Donovan Smith at left tackle and Ali Marpet at right guard.