In ranking the NFL’s top middle linebackers, RealScouts via SportingNews.com ranks Bucs disgruntled middle linebacker Barrett Ruud as the No. 9 middle linebacker in the league.

9. Barrett Ruud, Buccaneers. He has improved every season and is a tenacious and versatile linebacker who never comes off the field. He is a tough-minded player who plays hurt and probably is the best player on a good defense.

Joe doesn’t have anything against Ruud except for the fact he goes into the witness protection program after Thanksgiving each season. If Ruud, who is in the last year of his contract and may hold out until he gets a better deal (the Bucs have little leverage), can just play in December at 75 percent of the ability he shows off in September, Ruud would be an All-Pro.