Vincent Jackson had a long process to get to free agency with the San Diego Chargers. He battled with GM A.J. Smith wanting a long term deal. The 29 year old receiver missed most of the season two years ago in a contract dispute, then played under the franchise tag last year. San Diego never signed him long term, and the franchise tag became cost-prohibitive.

Now, Jackson, who has averaged over 17 yards per reception each of the last four years, goes to Tampa Bay in a move that was rumored throughout the day (first reported by Stephen Holder of Tampa Tribune). According to Adam Schefter, the deal is 5 years, 55.55 million, with 26 million guaranteed.

The team is also rumored to be heavily pursuing guard Carl Nicks. The bigger issue in Tampa is the defense that finished 32nd in points allowed last year and completely collapsed. Tampa Bay has been a young team and spent less money than anyone in the last two years.

Meanwhile, the San Diego Chargers then signed former Saints wide receiver Robert Meachem to offset the loss of Jackson. That deal was for 4 years, 25.9 million. Meachem will provide a vertical threat in the San Diego offense and joins Malcom Floyd and Vincent Brown as the likely trio of receivers competing for the starting spots in San Diego.

[photo via US Presswire]