Robert F. Bukaty/Associated Press

While political conventions these days have a reputation for being overly scripted, next week’s Republican gathering in Tampa, Fla., could have one unpredictable element: a legion of Ron Paul supporters turning out, some of whom will be on the convention floor.

On Monday, the Paul forces signaled one part of their strategy: they will hold what they called a major rally at the University of South Florida’s Sun Dome in Tampa on Sunday, the day before the convention is to start.

Mr. Paul’s supporters say he is going into the convention with roughly 200 delegates, but independent estimates say that number is lower. He still technically remains a candidate for the nomination, and while he is not listed as a speaker at the convention, his son, Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, who endorsed Mitt Romney, is scheduled to speak on the first night of the gathering.