Kellen Winslow in the loop

Tight end Kellen Winslow is missing voluntary workouts as he recovers from knee surgery, but is still in the loop.

Tight ends coach Alfredo Roberts said he is in constant contact with Winslow this offseason and keeps him informed about changes to Tampa Bay's offense.

"I try to keep him updated on what we're doing, just the things we've talked about in the room that might be a little bit different," Roberts said. "Make sure he's up to date and keep him current. He works so hard when he's in the building.

"He's one of the guys who are early in and late out. He's a big film watcher. This is my fourth year with him, and not to be complacent, but I'm used to the things he does."

Roberts has spent most of this offseason watching tight end Jerramy Stevens fill in for Winslow, who had 77 receptions for 884 yards and five touchdowns last season.

Stevens, a nine-year veteran, said he has spent this offseason bonding with his teammates and is trying to gain quarterback Josh Freeman's trust.

"The grind is competitive after nine years and it can get old, but you need to be here," Stevens said. "It's more for the team building than anything else. If you're a vet, you can pick up the offense. You know how to play football. It's about being around the guys.

"(Coach Raheem Morris) does not need me to be here everyday. (Offensive coordinator Greg Olson) doesn't need to be here everyday, but I'm here because I like being around the guys."

Click here to order Kellen Winslow's proCane Rookie Card.



(tbo.com)