The Tampa Bay Buccaneers today released former University of Hawai'i star Chad Owens, according to the team's Web site.

Owens, originally drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguards in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL draft, signed with the Buccaneers during the offseason.

He was one of nine players released by Tampa Bay.

NFL teams must trim their roster to 75 players by tomorrow.

The released players were wide receiver Jovon Bouknight, offensive lineman Jonathan Clinkscale, defensive end Tim Jones, offensive tackle Jabari Levey, center Nick Mihlhauser, defensive end Jeremy Pittman, wide receiver Kyle Smith and fullback Zach Tuiasosopo.

By Saturday, all NFL teams must reduce their roster to the regular-season limit of 53 players.

"It's always hard, but you've got to do it," said Head Coach Jon Gruden. "You've got to reduce your roster when it's time to reduce your roster. We've made some tough decisions today, and it doesn't mean that these guys' careers are over. I think there's a chance some might come back; some might move on elsewhere. But it's always tough. You spend a lot of time with these guys, and you want them to do well."