Bucs QB Josh Freeman, who was intercepted five times here last season, remains bothered by a right thumb injury. Freeman is so protective of his right thumb that he doesn’t shake hands and also has learned to operate his film machine with his left hand. The Bucs are extremely pleased with Freeman’s progress, especially considering how much practice time he’s missed because of the thumb injury.
Bucs CB Aqib Talib, who missed last week’s game because of an NFL suspension, will shadow Panthers WR Steve Smith.
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