We've learned the Bucs have expressed an interest in 2004 Pro Bowl return specialist Eddie Drummond, who was released Thursday by the Detroit Lions.

Drummond had been an electrifying return man for the Lions, but he contributed little on offense as a receiver. He told the Detroit Free Press today that he felt that was the major reason for his release.

Drummond also is drawing interest from at least two other clubs, but the Bucs may have the greatest need considering their inconsistency in the return game. Drummond is equally adept at returning kicks and punts, and Jon Gruden has consistently said he wants one player to perform both duties.

Neither Mark Jones nor Chad Owens have really opened eyes during the preseason, so it's plausible the Bucs could look elsewhere to address their need.

Drummond has six return touchdowns in his five NFL seasons, though he hasn't scored one since 2004, when he scored four times.