TAMPA — George Johnson has waited a long time for this moment.
The Buccaneers’ 27-year-old defensive end is on the brink of his first NFL start Sunday, when Tampa Bay and Tennessee meet at Raymond James Stadium.
Acquired from the Lions in an April 15 trade, Johnson is expected to open at right end. next to Pro Bowl DT Gerald MCoy, as the Bucs try to contain speedy rookie QB Marcus Mariota in the season opener.
“It means I’ve come a long way,’’ said Johnson, who has played in 27 games with Tampa Bay, Minnesota and Detroit without a start.