News: The Buccaneers continued trimming their roster Friday in preparation for the regular season and released the following players: defensive linemen Frank Okam and Amobi Okoye; defensive backs Larry Asante, Keith Tandy and Cody Grimm; linebacker Rennie Curran; and running back Mossis Madu.
Analysis: Okoye, a first-round pick at the age of 19, has already been rumored to rejoin the Bears. He had four sacks for Chicago last season. The other players were able to make an early impression in training camp and survive the first round of cuts. However, neither of them were ultimately expected to make a Fantasy impact this season and should be left on waivers at this point.
News: Buccaneers RB Mossis Madu had his most productive game of the season in Week 16 against the Panthers. He gained 20 yards on four carries and caught four passes for 42 yards in the 48-16 loss. Madu finished second on Tampa Bay in rushing behind Kregg Lumpkin (24 yards).
Analysis: Madu saw some extended work on Saturday with LeGarrette Blount benched for most of the first half but does not pose a ton of Fantasy value going forward. Leave him on waivers in the majority of formats with one game left in 2011.
News: Bucs offensive coordinator Greg Olson told reporters Thursday that the team will get RB Mossis Madu more involved on offense. Olson said Madu understands pass protections and could be used as a third-down back.
Analysis: Madu rushed for 25 yards on eight carries in Week 13 against the Bucs, and it apparently was enough to convince the coaching staff he is ready for a bigger role. The Bucs could use a nice changeup option to starter LeGarrette Blount, who continues to struggle for consistency. However, Madu is still not a must-add player and is nothing more than a desperation Fantasy option for Week 14 against the Jaguars.
News: With LeGarrette Blount struggling all game, Tampa Bay turned to RB Mossis Madu more than usual on Sunday of Week 13 in a loss to the Panthers. Madu rushed eight times for 25 yards while Blount rushed 11 times for 19 yards. Madu did not score and was not targeted in the passing game.
Analysis: Madu, a rookie who did not go to college, got his first action of the season on Sunday. Until that turns into consistent Fantasy production Madu will have no Fantasy value. Blount remains the No. 1 back for the Tampa Bay offense heading into Week 14 at Jacksonville.
News: Bucs coach Raheem Morris confirmed Wednesday that RB Mossis Madu was promoted to the 53-man roster in the wake of Earnest Graham (Achilles') going on IR.
Analysis: The Bucs are expecting LeGarrette Blount (knee) to return after the bye and play Week 9 against the Saints, but adding Madu will give the team depth at running back. It's just that he doesn't need to be added in Fantasy yet since he will likely be the third-string RB.
News: With RB Earnest Graham officially being placed on injured reserve Tuesday, the Buccaneers are considering promoting RB Mossis Madu from the practice squad onto the 53-man roster, reports the Tampa Tribune.
Analysis: Madu rushed for 53 yards on 15 carries during the preseason, but was released during final cuts. With LaGarrette Blount still on the mend and Graham now out for the season, the Bucs are desperate to find some bodies in the backfield, which is why Madu could be promoted and see some playing time moving forward. However, Madu wouldn't likely garner much Fantasy value, even if he were promoted to the active roster, so leave him on the waiver wire for now.
