Some league observers have pointed out that the Buccaneers' payroll could be well below the 2011 salary cap, although it's not clear when free agency will begin or what the cap number will be because of the labor dispute. The Bucs have not been big spenders in free agency of late, but they could have the cap flexibility to land at least one of the top free agents available. GM Mark Dominik said Thursday that he'll take an open approach to free agency. He also made it clear, however, that he wants to follow the example of franchises like the Colts, who generally have built through the draft, re-signed their own players and not aggressively pursued top free agents, but have still consistently competed in the postseason. Dominik would rather "nibble" in free agency than take a big bite, so while the Bucs will consider their options, sources don't expect them to make a big splash in free agency.

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