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FanFest Attracts Record Turnout


TAMPA A record turnout at FanFest greeted the Buccaneers Saturday at Raymond James Stadium, where RB Earnest Graham said he will show up next week for Tampa Bay’s mandatory minicamp.

Graham, who helped the Bucs to an NFC South title in 2007 after Cadillac Williams suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 4, is unhappy with his contract status and declined to participate in the club’s voluntary offseason workouts.

“I miss the guys and I’ll be there Tuesday,’’ Graham said. “I’m confident things will get worked out before training camp.’’

Buc officials estimated the crowd approached 30,000 for the free annual event. Tampa Bay supporters braved searing heat to participate in interactive games, pose for pictures and seek out autographs from their favorite players.

Coach Jon Gruden was introduced amid wild applause after defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin stoked the crowd.

“Winning affects the whole town,’’ Kiffin said. “When we don’t win, restaurants shut down early, our bars shut down early. Isn’t it fun to go to work when the Bucs win?’’

Among the notables who did not attend FanFest were embattled TE Jerramy Stevens and disgruntled QB Chris Simms.

“This is a chance for us to get reconnected with our fans,’’ Gruden said. “This is awesome today.’’

Send Us Your Comments

Posted by  David, Parrish, Fl. on 06/18  at  02:28 PM

When has Gruden EVER connected with the fans?


Posted by  Fred Melinski, St Pete on 06/15  at  01:24 PM

So much for the Big Dawg?
Looks like he might have gotten into a little bit of trouble in the wee hours this morning.


Posted by  MrNegative1, Riverview on 06/15  at  10:44 AM

So much for the big dawg and his constant harping on the Bucs organization and how much they have lost faith with the fans.  Where is the big Jeremy Stevens “uproar”.  What message did the fans send the Glazers about the treatment of Chris Simms and Jeremy Stevens issues?


Posted by  todd, PSJ, FL. on 06/15  at  12:35 AM

Graham needs to get back to practice if he really wants things to workout on his contract. You do not get awarded for sitting out and pouting. He has been going at it the wrong way.


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