Matt Bryant returned to the team's practice field Tuesday and sounded conflicted about his chances of retaining his starting job in 2009.
The Bucs signed 27-year-old free agent Mike Nugent from the Jets to compete against Bryant, who turned 34 last month. Bryant set a franchise record with 131 points last season while converting 32-of-38 FG attempts, including all 27 of his tries from inside the 40.
Nugent, is considered to have a stronger leg, especially on kickoffs.
Bryant has missed Tampa Bay's voluntary workouts while attending to a family medical issue in Texas. He returned to the Bay area Monday evening and participated in Tuesday's practice session.