TAMPA — The Bucs had their first full-squad offseason practice Monday, and just as notable as what happened on the field were those who weren't on it.
As expected, CB Darrelle Revis was a long way from joining his teammates, with the All-Pro still working with the training staff as he recovers from left knee surgery last fall.
Local media got the first glimpse of Revis' rehab routine which revealed he's coming along slowly, though the team says he's on schedule to play when the season opens. After a long ride on a stationary bike, Revis began his on-field rehab, doing straight-line running and some lateral exercises.
He has been with the Bucs for a month, and coach Greg Schiano has grown more comfortable with his health situation.
"I felt good a month ago, but (now) I have more knowledge now, hands on, being in the same building," Schiano said.
Revis is plenty busy, according to Schiano.
"Darrelle is learning the system," Schiano said. "He's watching certain things then he's doing other things with (the trainers). It's all aimed at having him ready at the beginning of the regular season, yet he's got to learn the scheme, he's got to learn the verbiage and the techniques.
"I think we're in a good place. We've got a long way to go, but I think he'd tell you he's feeling better every day, he's doing more every day and step by step is how we'll get there."
Among the players on injured reserve last season, DE Adrian Clayborn (knee) is furthest along. He's participating, though he isn't cleared to take part in full-team portions just yet. G Davin Joseph (knee) and G Carl Nicks (foot) aren't back. Joseph, Schiano said, is about two weeks away, but Nicks might not return until training camp.
"Carl is on schedule but we planned that it would be a lengthy (timeline)," Schiano said. "… I think they're both on schedule for when we need them, and that's come training camp. If we get something more than that, then that's a bonus."
EASY DOES IT: The Bucs had a typically fast-paced practice at One Buc Place, at times struggling to work within the limitations placed on offseason practices by the collective bargaining agreement. The rules call for no contact or pads, but the Bucs, like all teams, push the limits while minding the line.
"It's very tough," Schiano said. "It's not only for safety but it's mandated by the rules."
Rookie DT Akeem Spence got into a fight with C Jeremy Zuttah for being a bit too aggressive.
MISC.: Schiano said attendance was perfect for the voluntary workout. … LB Dekoda Watson worked with the first-team defense on the strong side, where he'll compete with newcomer Jonathan Casillas. Quincy Black, released because of a neck injury, started last season. … With Revis out, the top three cornerbacks were Eric Wright, Leonard Johnson and second-round pick Johnthan Banks. Wright played slot cornerback in the nickel. Look for Banks to eventually overtake Johnson.
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Information from Times wires was used in this report.