Josh

Bidwell

The Packers recently signed Travis Dorsch to compete for the job if Bidwell leaves.

The Packers offered Bidwell slightly more money, but the 1999 fourth-round pick chose to play in warmer weather. It’s expected that Green Bay will sign another punter to replace him, although they do have Travis Dorsch as a fallback option.

Tampa is hosting two free agent punters on Thursday. Bidwell, 33, hasn’t missed a game since 2000. Hip surgery would likely cost him the season.

It’s a big blow to a Bucs team that seems certain to struggle on offense. Bidwell, a former Pro Bowler, is coming off a very strong year and was being counted on to keep field position in Tampa’s favor. He’ll be back with just a $1M salary in 2010, but the Bucs may play musical chairs at punter in ’09.

It appears they’re ready to move on from Hunter “The Punter” Smith, despite a standout 2009 season. Bidwell is 34 and coming off hip surgery, but when healthy has been one of the league’s best and most strong-legged punters.

Bidwell missed all of 2009 with a hip injury, and the Bucs must not have been pleased with the former Pro Bowler’s recovery. Also going on age 34, he was due a $1 million salary. Johnson is a borderline NFL-caliber punter.

A Pro Bowler in 2005, Bidwell is now under contract with Tampa Bay through 2011. Bidwell has had a bit of a down year in 2006 with a 36.4 net as opposed to his 37.5 average from a season ago.

“Hunter the Punter” is expected to fill in for Josh Bidwell, who is battling a nagging hip injury. Bidwell now becomes a candidate for injured reserve.