Usually team decision-makers are on the same page when it comes to their quarterback, publicly if not privately. So it's a little surprising to read that while the Bucs' front office is behind Josh Freeman as its franchise quarterback, head coach Greg Schiano isn't.
This story in the Tampa Bay Times says "everything you've read and heard about the Bucs looking into quarterbacks in free agency and the draft has been driven almost exclusively by Schiano." Thus far the Bucs haven't added anyone of note, which the story indicates is because GM Mark Dominik is fully on board with Freeman as franchise quarterback.
What does this mean for Freeman? Sounds like the GM has his back and is willing to be patient with him, and the head coach isn't particularly optimistic and wants to have another option on hand for if/when Freeman struggles this season.
The article suggests the Bucs will end up using a mid-round pick on a quarterback. With no sure thing signal-callers in the draft, there might be a decent one available in the middle rounds -- somebody with potential, but a lot of question marks. It sounds like if it's up to Schiano, the Bucs will use a pick on that player sooner rather than later.
What is clear is that Freeman needs to perform this year to keep his job. And the split between the general manager and the head coach on his future is one that could end up growing wider, depending on the 2013 season.
--Andy Richardson