Michael Pittman to the Broncos

Just got confirmation from agent Drew Rosenhaus that former Bucs running back Michael Pittman has agreed to the terms of a one-year contract with the Broncos.

Pittman became a free agent in February and said at the time he hoped to play elsewhere in 2008. But he did not find a big market for his services, at least in part because of his age (32). And with Tampa Bay addressing its running back stable with the addition of Warrick Dunn and the re-signing of Michael Bennett, there was little room left for another veteran.

Pittman leaves the Bucs after six seasons with the organization. He is coming off a 2007 season in which he missed six games and played sparingly in several others because of a high ankle sprain. He finished with 286 rushing yards and caught 26 passes for 191 yards.

In his best season with the Bucs, Pittman rushed for a career-high 926 yards in 2004. But he might best be remembered in Tampa Bay for his 124-yard performance in the Bucs' Super Bowl XXXVII victory against Oakland.

Pittman was looking for an expanded role, and Denver is a place he at least has a chance to accomplish that goal. Incumbent starter Travis Henry is recovering from a hamstring injury, perhaps giving Pittman a chance to shine in the offseason.

[Brian Cassella, Times files]