Outside linebacker Haason Reddick has been an active participant in the Buccaneers' mandatory minicamp this week, as the team expected. However, the veteran defender skipped voluntary OTAs over the last few weeks, which raised questions from media members and fans about his commitment level to playing for Tampa Bay after signing a one-year deal worth $14 million in March. After Wednesday's minicamp practice, Reddick explained his previous absence. "I know everybody was concerned about me not showing up at OTAs but for me, I definitely made sure to stay in shape," he said. "I don’t think it should’ve been a question, but [I] just had some things to button up on as I get ready to make this transition down here, so that way, once I get here, I don’t have to worry about [anything] back there at home." A year ago, Reddick was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles and was entering the final season of a three-year contract. The Eagles traded him to the New York Jets before the regular season, but he held out until the team gave him a restructured deal, which caused him to miss seven games. Reddick reassured that he never intended to hold out on the Buccaneers. "I don't want [any] distractions...I'm going to focus on football. I'm going to focus on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers," he said. The former first-round draft pick believes the Buccaneers are close to contending for a Super Bowl and that he can provide the necessary boost on defense. Last season, Tampa Bay recorded 46 sacks, but no player had 10 or more. Reddick has recorded double-digit sacks in four of his last five seasons and wants to replicate that in the red and pewter. Head coach Todd Bowles believes his new pass rusher can accomplish that goal. "He has a quick first step and he’s very strong off the ball. He knows how to play football and he knows how to find creases and get after it. He’s a very savvy football player," he said. The Bucs wrap up mandatory minicamp on Thursday. Following that practice, the team will be off until training camp begins in late July.