Joe Hawley: Option declined, set for free agency

The Buccaneers informed Hawley on Monday that they would decline his $2.5 million team option for the 2018 season, making the lineman an unrestricted free agent, Tom Pelissero of NFL.com reports.

Hawley saw action in just four games for the Buccaneers during the 2018 campaign and wasn't deemed worthy of retaining in a backup role at center behind starter Ali Marpet. Per Pelissero, the Buccaneers have interest in bringing Hawley back on a cheaper contract, but the 29-year-old will presumably look around and see what kind of market he has for his services before entertaining the idea of re-signing with Tampa Bay.