TAMPA — The old man of the Buccaneers is acting like a rookie.
Logan Mankins, a six-time Pro Bowl guard for New England who ranks as the oldest Bucs player at 33, is approaching a new season with renewed gusto.
“I’m much more settled, much more comfortable,’’ Mankins said after practice at mandatory minicamp, which wraps up after this morning’s session.
“It’s nice to have a full offseason with the team. Family-wise, personal-wise and job-wise, everything’s a lot smoother right now. I’m feeling great and it’s been a good spring for this football team.’’
After nine accomplished seasons with the Patriots, Mankins refused a pay cut and was traded to Tampa Bay on the brink of the 2014 season opener for tight end Tim Wright and a fourth-round draft choice.