The news keeps coming....

There's a report on the web indicating Philadelphia cornerback Lito Sheppard visited with the Bucs on Wednesday. We've heard from two separate sources that no visit has taken place, but we can tell you there have been preliminary trade conversations involving the Bucs aimed toward bringing Sheppard to Tampa Bay.

Sheppard, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, has long been said to be available via trade. But nothing substantial has come to light in terms of possibilities until now. The aforementioned report, by Foxsports.com, says a trade is likely by Saturday. We're told it's too early to say that, but that's not to say it's impossible. There also are believed to be other teams holding discussions with the Eagles.

If the Bucs were able to orchestrate a trade for Sheppard, it would have a significant influence on their draft decisions as cornerback is currently seen as a primary need.

The Eagles' acquisition of Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel in free agency made the 27-year-old Sheppard a logical trade target. The draft might provide their best opportunity yet to unload him.

STEPHEN F. HOLDER, Times Staff Writer