Running back a priority; Gilmore to sign

The Bucs have begun their pursuit of a couple of free agent running backs.

New Orleans' Aaron Stecker received a phone call after midnight this morning from Jon Gruden and running backs coach Rich Bisaccia, expressing their interest in the 32-year old veteran. Stecker spent his first four seasons with the Bucs before joining the Saints in 2004. No visit has been scheduled and other teams also have inquired about him, but Stecker figures to remain an option until the Bucs make a decision at running back.

They also have an interest in Vikings free agent back Mewelde Moore. The Bucs were engaged in trade talks for Moore prior to the trade deadline in October but opted to deal for Michael Bennett.

In other news, Chicago reserve tight end John Gilmore is expected to visit the Bucs. In fact, the latest news out of Chicago indicates the Bucs have agreed to a deal with him.