The experiment to move safety Jermaine Phillips to linebacker has ended -- at least for now.

The looming four-game suspension by the NFL of Tenard Jackson for violating the league's substance abuse policy has forced the Bucs to move Phillips back to safety, coach Raheem Morris said Tuesday.

Second-year pro Geno Hayes will start Thursday night against the Miami Dolphins at weakside linebacker, the position manned by Derrick Brooks for 14 seasons.

Morris will use a rotation of Sabby Piscitelli, Will Allen and Phillips at safety.

"(The experiment) is kind of on hold right now,'' Morris said. 

"And it's a shame, too, because of how well he was doing.''

When Jackson returns from his suspension in Oct., Phillips could see more action at linebacker.

"You've got to have three safeties,'' Morris said. "After Will Allen, my confidence drops off putting the next guy in. I'm not as confident putting Donte (Nicholson) in the game.''