The Buccaneers have reached an agreement on a contract with Mike Jenkins, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, who reports (via Twitter) that the free agent defensive back will sign a one-year deal. Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports reports (via Twitter) that the agreement, which has now been confirmed by the Bucs, will be worth $1.5MM, with another $500K available via incentives.
Most of the reported interest Jenkins received this week came from the Cardinals and Buccaneers, so it makes sense that he’d land in Tampa after the Cards agreed to terms with Antonio Cromartie. Jenkins, a longtime Cowboy, spent last season in Oakland, starting 15 games for the Raiders and piling up 65 tackles to go with a pair of interceptions.
Jenkins ranked in the middle of the pack among cornerbacks last season, according to Pro Football Focus’ metrics, due to a subpar grade in pass coverage, but the Bucs may view him as a good fit for their defensive scheme under new head coach Lovie Smith. The team has also added cornerback Alterraun Verner since free agency opened, parting ways with Darrelle Revis.