With Josh Bidwell's ailing hip sidelining him for at least the Bucs' preseason opener at Tennessee, the Buccaneers have signed 34-year old Dirk Johnson, who worked out for the team Thursday morning. Johnson began his NFL career in 2002, punting for New Orleans in one game. In 2003, Johnson signed with Philadelphia and remained with the Eagles through the 2006 season. He averaged 41.7 yards during his stint in Philly with a 38.1-yard net average.

Johnson punted in one game for Chicago in 2007, averaging 49.8 yards and a 44.3-yard net average. He punted in 12 games last year for Arizona, averaging 41.8 yards with a 35.2 net average.

Over his NFL career, Johnson has a 41.7-yard avg. with a 37.8-yard net average. Johnson has 94 punts downed inside the 20-yard line and 32 touchbacks.

It is unclear who the other punter was that auditioned for the Bucs Thursday morning. PewterReport.com will have more on this story throughout the day.