TAMPA, Fla. (AP) _ Tampa Bay star receiver Keyshawn Johnson was declared inactive for the rest of the season Tuesday, a team source said on condition of anonymity.
The Buccaneers planned a late-afternoon news conference with general manager Rich McKay to discuss the status of the two-time Pro Bowl selection.
Johnson, acquired in a trade with the New York Jets in 2000, was the Bucs' leading receiver the past three seasons and helped them win their first Super Bowl in January.
The eight-year pro, who is midway through a $56 million contract that included a $13 million signing bonus, has been unhappy with his role in coach Jon Gruden's offense during a disappointing 4-6 start for the defending champions.
Johnson put his Tampa home up for sale last week and has been dropping not-so-subtle hints in the locker room he does not wish to remain in Tampa Bay beyond 2003.
Johnson is the second-fastest player to get 600 catches in a career, behind only Indianapolis' Marvin Harrison. He is the Bucs' third-leading receiver this season with 45 catches for 600 yards and three touchdowns.
Telephone calls to Johnson were not immediately returned.
(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APTV-11-18-03 1440EST