Cards Expected to Release Edge, He Could End Up With Bucs

Cardinals running back Edgerrin James had a resurgence of sorts during the postseason. The same guy who managed just 514 yards during the regular season racked up nearly half that during the playoffs. Still, given his age and salary, there was a good chance his career with the Cards was over.

That helps explain why he didn't fly back to Arizona with his teammates after the Super Bowl (although having a home in Florida might've also had something to do with his travel plans). Whatever, the question now becomes: where does Edge end up in '09? Commence speculation:

The rumor was started by an ESPN analyst who suggested Tampa would be a good landing spot for James, who is expected to be released by the Cardinals before free agency begins.

James has apparently told folks close to him that he'd like to return to Florida. If so there might not be a better landing spot for him than Tampa, which could use a back of his various skills.

As the Tampa Tribune's Roy Cummings notes, the Bucs have Earnest Graham, but there's not much behind him. Cadillac Williams hasn't regained his pre-blowed-out-knee form, and if nothing else, James would be a part-time player who would be an immediate upgrade as a pass blocker.

Of course, there's no guarantee Edge would be willing to sign an incentive-laden, short-term deal. That said, there's not a team in the league willing to pay him like an in-his-prime NFL back. If he wants to be close to home, Tampa could be a good fit. Assuming the front office doesn't end up taking a running back early on draft weekend.