Kevin

Carter

He’s picking between the Bucs and Raiders. Oakland needs him more, but both can offer plenty of money. He wouldn’t be a lock to start in Tampa Bay.

“It was big money he turned down (from Oakland), but he went with heart rather than the pocket,” his agent said. Carter has a chance to be the Bucs’ starting left end in 2008, but he’ll likely come off the field on passing downs.

The Raiders have a gaping hole at right defensive end. Carter is a left end at this stage in his career, but can also play tackle. If Oakland views him as a starter, he could move inside with Tommy Kelly kicking back out to RE.

Carter played on the end for most of his career before moving inside to tackle earlier this year. He played very well Monday night at end, and has some upside at end for IDP owners.

With Jevon Kearse also gone, the Titans now have two defensive end spots to fill. That said, Carter is reportedly been dominating on the inside during training camp. It’s good for Tennessee’s rush defense, but bad for Carter’s stats. He won’t be much of an IDP factor.

If Miami is switching to a 3-4, Carter would be a fine fit.

He’s made enough money, so Carter is likely headed to a winning team in search of a ring. New England, Indianapolis, and Kansas City all seem like fits to us.

The veteran was released this week, but his agent says he’s staying in Tennessee. ''This is not necessarily going to be a case of he goes to the highest bidder.’'

The versatile veteran can play anywhere on the defensive line and would be a valuable addition for a playoff-ready team. His days as an IDP factor may be over.

It’s a very Patriots-like move to sign the versatile and experienced defensive lineman to a reduced salary. Carter is still an effective player, but his days as an IDP force are probably over.