Keyshawn Johnson to sit out rest of season

TAMPA, Fla.-- Tampa Bay star receiver Keyshawn Johnson was deactivated for the rest of the season Tuesday, a team source said.\nThe Buccaneers planned a late-afternoon news conference with general manager Rich McKay to discuss the status of the two-time Pro Bowl selection, the source told The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity.\nThe eight-year pro, who is midway through a $56 million contract that included a $13 million signing bonus, has been unhappy with his role in coach Jon Gruden's offense during a disappointing 4-6 start for the defending champions.\nHe put his Tampa home up for sale last week and has been dropping not-so-subtle hints in the locker room he does not wish to remain in Tampa Bay beyond 2003.\nJohnson, acquired in a trade with the New York Jets in 2000, was the Bucs' leading receiver the past three seasons and helped them win their first Super Bowl in January.\nJohnson reached 600 career catches in less time than any other receiver except Indianapolis' Marvin Harrison. He is the Bucs' third-leading receiver this season with 45 catches for 600 yards and three touchdowns.\nTelephone calls to Johnson were not immediately returned. He told WFAN radio in New York that he learned of the deactivation from his agent.\n"No one's explained to me why," Johnson said. "No one's told me anything. I'll know more later on.\n"I go out and try to play and play my butt off and try to win football games. I don't know what's transpired along the way."\nAs for any feud with Gruden, Johnson took a diplomatic approach.\n"I've had a great run in Tampa and won a Super Bowl under his direction," he said. "Now I look forward to the rest of my career.\n"I'll just get ready for next year and hopefully someone will want these services"