TAMPA — The Bucs have 17 unrestricted free agents after going 9-7 in Dirk Koetter's first season, and the biggest decisions of the next two months will be in choosing which players Tampa Bay keeps before they hit the open market.
With positive momentum — improving from two wins in 2014 to six last year to just missing the playoffs — even the most coveted of the Bucs' free agents say they have personal interests in staying in Tampa.
"I love it here. I've been here four years of my life, built bonds. I love the fans, love all the coaching staffs I've had, love the guys upstairs," said defensive end Will Gholston, a 2013 draft pick who has played for three head coaches in his four seasons with the Bucs.