The Bucs begin a mandatory three-day minicamp and Tuesday and it remains to be seen whether LB Barrett Ruud will show.

He hasn't participated in any voluntary offseason workouts for the first time in his five-year career in an effort to reinforce his wish for a new contract. He is yet to commit to attending this week's required event.

He can certainly opt not to come, but that decision could be a costly one. Under the rules of the NFL's collective bargaining agreement, teams have the right to fine players a maximum of $8,000 for missed activities, such as minicamps. The club isn't required to assess any fines, but it certainly has the option. The fines are significantly stiffer for training camp, when a team can fine players up to $14,000 . . . per day.

Coach Raheem Morris said he has been in contact with Ruud and that their relationship isn't an issue. If Ruud skips minicamp, it'll be a business decision.

The team is also anxious to see whether G Arron Sears and QB Brian Griese show. Sears might be excused as he is dealing with an unspecified personal issue while Griese has been disenchanted with his place on the depth chart and expects to be released. Neither has participated in OTAs (organized team activities).