Last month, the Buccaneers dipped into the college ranks for a head coach, hiring the man who has presided over a mediocre-to-average Rutgers program for 11 years. Last night, the Bucs resorted to the NCAA level again, hiring an assistant from one of the better college football teams in recent years.
LSU defensive backs coach Ron Cooper has joined the Tampa staff, according to PewterReport.com.
The report doesn’t indicate Cooper’s title with the Bucs. Currently, the team’s online roster of coaches identifies only the head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and senior offensive assistant. Presumably, Cooper will be the defensive backs coach.
Cooper’s presence will give the Bucs extra insight regarding LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne, who is one of the top prospects in the 2012 draft -- and whom the Buccaneers could nab with the fifth overall pick in the draft.
(Photo credit: LSU Athletics Publications)