Free agent middle linebacker Curtis Lofton will reportedly have an aggressive suitor in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Bucs will make a "strong push" to sign Lofton, Fox Sports reporter Alex Marvez tweeted Tuesday morning, citing a source.
Lofton had 147 tackles with a sack, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery for the Atlanta Falcons last year.
Signing Lofton would help the Bucs bolster a defense that has been the worst in the league against the run in two of the past three seasons.
It would also allow linebacker Mason Foster to move to outside linebacker, a switch that had already been considered, according to The Tampa Times.
The Falcons recently signed linebacker Lofa Tatupu and reports indicated he would replace Lofton, but there's no guarantee he will have a smooth transition.
Tatupu did not play in 2011, as he was released before the season by the Seattle Seahawks after he had surgery on both his knees and wouldn't take a pay cut. He had 88 tackles in 2010, far below his normal production, and missed 11 games in 2009.
