The Buccaneers have announced that free safety Tanard Jackson has been suspended by the NFL indefinitely. Jackson violated the NFL’s substance abuse policy and program. The suspension takes effect immediately, and the fourth-year pro is not eligible for reinstatement until September 22, 2011.

Bucs general manager Mark Dominik released this statement:
“Tanard is a talented young man whom we hope is able to use this year to put his troubles behind him and ultimately return a stronger man and player. It's up to Tanard whether the team and our fans eventually realize his considerable promise.”
Dominik isn’t exaggerating when he refers to Jackson’s “considerable promise”. The former fourth-round pick showed a true knack for playmaking when he first entered the league. He has struggled at times in recent years, namely in reads and decision-making (which, in hindsight, may or may not be tied to his substance abuse), but when he’s right, he’s an ideal centerfielder in a Cover 2 scheme.
Jackson’s absence puts the Bucs in a considerable bind. The second-string free safety is Cody Grimm, who was drafted in the seventh round this past April. Former Bengal Corey Lynch offers more experience, but he’s a limited athlete. And besides, it might be too painful for Bucs fans to see a safety named Lynch take the field without any genuine talent -- especially given that this Lynch even physically looks like Sir John Lynch.
Sabby Piscitelli might seem like an option, but he couldn’t even cover average tight ends effectively last season. The only way he gets back on the field is if coaches decide they’re willing to move starting strong safety Sean Jones into centerfield.
Dominik may want to place a call to Ken Hamlin, who was released by the Ravens on Wednesday.
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