With Byron Leftwich now named the starting QB, as expected, if the Bucs can’t find a deal for Luke McCown, look for them to open the season with four passers, according to a team source.

The Bucs had been shopping all quarterbacks other than first-round draft pick Josh Freeman, but the trade market was dry. McCown had struggled mightily at times and looked good in only the second preseason game. Some are speculating that second-year quarterback Josh Johnson could be cut, but a source said, “No way,” when asked about that possibility. The Bucs are high on Johnson and view him as a capable backup now with starting potential.

Both Leftwich and McCown are more stopgap measures as the team looks to create a bridge until Freeman is ready to start.

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