Gary

Gibson

Gibson played just over a third of the defensive snaps in St. Louis last year after starting in 2010. As a former Rutgers star, he has connections to the new Bucs staff. Expect him to play a rotational role on Greg Schiano’s defensive line.

In terms of run defense, it’s safe to say this won’t end well for a team that ranked 32nd against the run last year. The Bucs might have had a prayer of avoiding the league’s run-defense basement had Brian Price turned himself around, but they didn’t bother seeing it through, shipping him to Chicago for a late-round pick. Tampa will be a juicy matchup for fantasy running backs again in 2012.

As was DT Gary Gibson with a right hip injury. Both are questionable to return. Bell is hardly a star, but his loss is not good news for an already embattled Rams’ offensive line. He’s been replaced at left guard by Tony Wragge.

Gibson was a mild surprise at final cuts, but has returned on a (presumably) cheaper deal. He’ll serve as depth behind rookie NT Akeem Spence.

Gibson is getting the nod based on experience, but most expect fourth-round pick Akeem Spence to eventually win the job ahead of Week 1. Gibson, 31, will compete for a rotational spot along with Derek Landri and Andre Neblett.

Panthers beat writers were impressed by Gibson last summer, but he made little impact in 11 games and the team neglected to tender him an offer as a restricted free agent.

Gibson is a four-year vet with a big body. He’s clearly Carriker’s backup, but won’t have much of an impact.

Tough loss for the Rams. He had just gotten over an ankle injury and then immediately hurt his shoulder in the preseason finale. Gary Gibson will start at defensive tackle.

Gibson has seen a rise in playing time this season with Adam Carriker sidelined, but hasn’t made a huge impact. He has 7 tackles through five weeks.

He’s done for the season. Gibson, who would be a practice squad body on most teams, had been starting for the hapless 0-5 Rams.