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          NFL Nation

          Bucs heavily invested in defense

          • Pat Yasinskas, ESPN Staff WriterJun 16, 2014, 01:05 PM ET
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            • Previously covered NFC South for ESPN.com
            • Covered Panthers for The Charlotte Observer from 1999-2008
            • Began journalism career with The Tampa Tribune in 1990
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          Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Lovie Smith prides himself on putting together teams with good defenses. That comes with a heavy price.

          The Bucs have $64.7 million of this year’s salary cap tied up in defensive players, according to ESPN Stats & Information. That’s the third-highest figure in the league. Only Buffalo ($66.5 million) and Detroit ($65 million) have more cap room committed toward the defense.

          The Bucs aren’t exactly being frugal on offense, where $55.6 million of this year’s cap room is committed. Ten teams have less money committed toward offense.

          Here’s a look at the top 10 salary cap figures for 2014: