Robert Ayers, Buccaneers agree to three-year deal

Free agent defensive end Robert Ayers has agreed to a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Free agent defensive end Robert Ayers has agreed to a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team announced.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports the deal is worth $21 million over three years, with $10.5 million guaranteed. Ayers reportedly visited the Jaguars on Friday but will sign with the Buccaneers on Saturday.

Ayers was regarded as one of the top available pass rushers in free agency after recording 9 1/2 sacks last season for the Giants, the most by any free agent entering the off-season. He recorded sacks in five straight games to end the season.

“Robert is a versatile pass rusher who can play a variety of positions along the defensive line and has been successful both from the interior as well as the edge,” said Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht in a statement. “He has posted 20 sacks over the past three years, is coming off the best season of his career and is an ideal fit for our 4-3 defensive system. Experienced pass rushers who can provide consistent pressure and disrupt an opponent’s passing game are critical to our defensive success and Robert will do all those things, along with providing veteran leadership.”

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In 96 career games with the Broncos and Giants, Ayers has made 204 tackles, 41 tackles for loss and 26.5 sacks.