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- Bucs Q & A: Tribune sports columnist Martin Fennelly
- Camp Q&A Recap: Roy Cummings
- Q&A With Roy Cummings: Aug. 8
- Camp Q&A With Roy Cummings
- Q&A With Roy Cummings
- What About Petitgout?
- Caddy Back On The Road?
- A Frustrating, Anxious Time
- Bucs Will Lean On Clayton, Stovall
- Bucs Love Flacco
- Fitzgerald Staying In Arizona
- Focus On The Draft
- Kelly's Likely Destination: Detroit
- June Will Eventually Replace Brooks
- Speed Is Bucs' Top Draft Priority
Monthly Archives
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Note: This Q & A session is now closed.
Sumbit your questions for the next round here.
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Q: Granted, Garcia will be our starting quarterback this year: however, if he has not shaken off his rust will Gruden play the player most likely to lead the Bucs to victory, regardless if it offends Jeff Garcia?
-- Dean Meinert, Port Charlotte
A: Absolutely Gruden would switch. Hey, he was willing to switch from Garcia to Favre after Garcia helped save his and GM Bruce Allen’s job. The guess here is Brian Griese. Actually, it’s not a guess _ count on it if this team breaks from the gate 1-3 or something like that, a real possibility.
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Q: What is up with our kicking game? Teams like Kansas City are parading around three kickers, while we stick with Matt Bryant. The guy can’t make a field goal over 40 yards, and is questionable everytime he is up. Kicking decides many games and think this is something that needs to be addressed. At least bring in somebody to challenge him.
-Frustrated Buc Fan, Plant City
Dear Frustrated: I’ve always wanted to write that—Dear Frustrated—it brings out the Dear Abby in me. Anyway, I’m with you. This team is putting way too much on this guy. It’s been a while since he booted the Bucs past the Eagles with that memorable Tom Dempsey impersonation—a long while. It’s taking a chance, especially given the fact that this is looking, to me at least, like a field-goal offense. You’ll see audtions—quickly—if is wide left or right or short early.
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Q: Why do the Bucs not use Graham as starting fullback and Dunn as starting tailback, like a 1,2 punch?
-- Bruce Valentine, Lakeland
A: Because Dunn might not be ready to haul the mail 15 to 20 times a game anymore, at least in Gruden’s mind (at least in the Falcons’ mind, too). I wonder, too, just how much he has left. Graham, so long as he holds onto the ball, should be the 15-touch guy, with Dunn coming in at 8 to 10 (Gruden loves him as a receiver) and Mikey Bennett good for 4 or 5. But Dunn will get his shot if Graham slips, even a little. And he should.
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Q: Will the Bucs home games be televised if they are not sold out?
-- Sandra Ulmer, Pinellas Park
A: Sandra, why are you always trying to stir things up? Just kidding. What a delightfully innocent question. I don’t think the question applies anymore _ the Bucs are sold out, so the 72-hour rule isn’t effect (if a game isn’t sold out 72 hours before the game, NFL rules dictate that TV can’t show it). But just how many of those sold seats will have fannies in them will depend on how this team breaks from the gate.
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Q: I am a Bucs Fan 4Life. My question is, Why is it that in Coach Gruden’s offense the Bucs frequently find themselves in third-and-6 situation, and the answer to this is a 5-yard pass? With the improvment of the O-line shouldn’t we be able to give enough pass protection for, say, a 7-yard pass?
-- Coach Kerry Bender, Tampa
A: Wow, a seven-yarder—you really want them to air it out, don’t you? Sadly, a six-yarder is tall cotton for Gruden’s offensive genius. Part of the problem is that even with protection, I’m not sure Clayton and Stovall will be open, or hold on to the ball. That goes for Antonio Bryant, too, and Dexter Jackson. Yes, protection might improve, but I don’t see the third-and-6s going away anytime soon, unless the team carves out big yardage on the ground. By the way, to me at least, vet Ike Hilliard is still the man on third down—and that’s scary.
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Q: Off the wall here, but I’ve always wondered ... what happens if a player on the field has to go to the bathroom?
-- Wendy, Orlando
A: I checked the rule book on this one. According to league rule 415.23 (section III, paragraph 2), “Any player, or players, needing to go potty, should do so.” Actually, Wendy, I’ve talked to players who’ve wet themselves rather than come out, as well as players who’ve wet themselves, period. Bruce Gradkowski comes to mind. Seriously, usually a player will hold until relieved. NFL games are like cellblock riots—there’s no time to think, much less, well, you know. They wait until halftime usually. Gives new meaning to “We’re No. 1,” doesn’t it?
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Q: As A Florida State Fan, where do you see Geno Hayes in the future with the Bucs?
-- D.J. Webb, Clearwater
A: Spot duty, here and there. He’s in Ryan Nece mode right now
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Q: Last year a rookie player went down with a serious (season ending) injury in the preseason, during a game. All the players went to speak to him while he was lying on the field and the comentators mentioned that was because not only a respect thing but also because he was so well liked and talented. I do not remember the name but am curious as to what his name is, what team he is with and how is doing this year.
-- Rick, Lakeland
A: Say a prayer. His name was Paris Warrren and he was released last week. Great kid, terrible timing. He was going to make the team, but this year the field was crowded at wideout, so he’s gone. The NFL is a tough racket.
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Q: What ever happened to Dre Moore? Does he still exist? Or was he a figure of our imagination?
-- Thomas Wiesenfeld, Longmont, Colo.
A: A figment, completely.
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Q: Please tell me it’s at LEAST being discussed… Bolden to Tampa for a first-round pick.
-- Charles Pruitt, New Orleans
A: At last, a thinking man’s thinker. I’ve wanted a receiver to backstop Joey Galloway forever. I’d rather have that than Brett Favre; it’s what this team needs. Have heard no talk of talk about Bolden. There should be.
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Q: I’m a bigtime Gaines Adams fan. What should we realistically look for sacks from him this year ? Is he a 12-18 sack DE or around 8-10 ?
A: I can’t see 12 to 18 sacks—I can’t see that at all. But 10 would be a great goal. The kid’s learning curve was great last season, and teammate and sack veteran Kevin Carter thinks Gaines should own some games this season. I tend to agree.
-- Joseph C. White, Port Charlotte
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Q: I’ve noticed for the second straight year that Monte is experimenting with a 3-4 defensive scheme with various blitz packages. Is Monte just sending smoke signals here or is he truly interested in changing things up at times in the regular season? Also, if they did go with that alignment, who would be the three down linemen? Many of their players don’t seem to carry enough weight for such a scheme.
-- Fred Thompson, Valrico
Q: I think they’d like White, Hovan and Adams, at least that’s the word. I find it hard to believe Kiffin will do much 3-4 _ you go with got you here, and the Bucs defense has gotten there again and again over the years.
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Q: Its amazing when we read about the young WR’s and the potential that exists in Tampa, yet one name seems always absent from the discussion, Dexter Jackson. Is this an indication that the Bucs prefer to see him as a kickoff or return specialist as opposed to a WR? I remember on draft day hoping they would select Limas Sweed who was still available and will be curious to track his season comparatively. Are the Bucs hoping Jackson will be their Devin Hester? Thanks as always!
-- Frank Stazzone, Long Island, NY
A: I wonder about this kid. I do. He doesn’t seem to run many kicks back. His size is a question, and if there’s a Devi Hester inside waiting to get out, I haven’t seen it yet. On the other hand, I have seen the other receivers—and this kid should definitely be in the mix. Anyone should. I think WR is the weak link on this offense.
Q: Roy, how is Ben Troupe doing in camp? Will he be playing in any of the preseason games?
- Calvin Jones, Nashville
A: Ben Troupe missed a couple days with a concussion and is now nursing a sore foot. Looks like he’ll miss this weekend’s exhibition against New England. He should return for next week’s game against Jacksonville, but there’s no guarantee of that.
Q: In the backup QB race, it looks as if Griese is entrenched and Johnson almost has to be kept based on his potential. This leaves Simms and McCown. Who stays and who goes? Would it be a mistake to let Simms go? McCown could never hurt us on another team, but Simms just might. Your thoughts???
- BigBucFan, Sarasota
A: I’m not sure that McCown could never hurt the Bucs playing for another team. He’s very athletic and if he ever figures out how to sense the rush he’s going to be dangerous. I still think he wins the backup job out of camp, but who plays behind him is really anyone’s guess. The Bucs won’t take a chance on placing Johnson on the practice squad, but I’m not sure they can afford to keep him as a third. My guess is that Simms goes, but he hasn’t played any worse than anyone else. This is clearly the most difficult decision the Bucs will have to make when it comes time to cut the roster down. Because of that I think they’ll wait until the last minute to make a move and hope the move is made for them ... if you know what I mean.
Q: Hey Roy, thanks for letting me pick your football brain for a minute. I’ve been wondering how Paris Warren is doing after the bad injury he suffered last preseason?
- Rocky, St. Petersburg
A: My pleasure; now, as for Paris, he hasn’t really had all that impressive of a camp. He does appear to be healthy, but he really hasn’t exploded onto the scene the way Jon Gruden likes. The Bucs are expecting him to shine brighter in games but he’s only got three more chances and the pack of players ahead of him has been very impressive.
Q: Roy, what has been holding Maurice Stovall back from really making an impact? Is it route running, dropped passes, something else?
- Joseph C. White, Port Charlotte
A: I think Maurice just needed a little more time to adjust to the NFL. He needed to pay a little more attention to details such as route running and that kind of thing and now that he’s done that he seems fine. He also seems a lot more confident.
Q: Roy, with Jeff Garcia inching ever closer to the Big 4-0, Tampa should probably be thinking about who’s next. So, is that guy already on the payroll, or are we still looking? McCown, maybe?
- Shawn Golan, Los Angeles
A: You’ve got to say at this point that McCown is the QB of the future here. Josh Johnson is probably next on that list, but he has a long ways to go to be an NFL caliber player. You also have to factor in the fact that Jon Gruden’s offense is best run by an experienced player. It doesn’t have to be a 35-year-old veteran but something along those lines is what usually works best for him. Having said that, the Bucs QB of the future is probably a player who will be cut sometime between now and the start of free agency next year.
Q: Didn’t the Cowboys release WR Terry Glenn? Although he has had a couple of knee surgeries, what’s the likelihood of him coming to the Bucs? If so, will that be a wise move? Thanks.
- Ray, Houston, TX
A: We have asked several times about Terry Glenn, and the response has always been rather cool. I really don’t get the sense the Bucs are interested. I’m not sure what it is the Bucs don’t like about Glenn, but I have a hard time believing he’ll be a Buc.
Q: How do you think Dexter Jackson is panning out, and what is his most likely role? Also, who do you think our top two tight ends are right now? Thanks!
- Sean, Orlando
A: Dexter Jackson is having a nice camp. He should be an option in the return game, and if he does that the Bucs will work with him on his receiving skills. The problem is that he’s very small, so he’ll have to work outside the numbers. The Bucs will have to come up with some plays that are designed specifically for him. By that I mean they will have to come up with plays that get him into situations in which he can excel. He’s not going to win any physical battles, but if the Bucs can get the ball in his hands in an open area and let him use his legs, he can be a weapon.
Q: I know Jon Gruden has said good things about C Jeff Faine, but could that be partly because they paid him so much to come here? Have you seen a lot to think that he’s going to make the difference that the Bucs seem to expect?
- Kevin, Peachtree City, GA
A: As far as Faine is concerned, I’ll put it this way: I haven’t seen anything that makes me think he won’t be an impact player. He’s an upgrade over John Wade, who was a darned good center. He works well with the two guards here and he’s mean. When a guy like Chris Hovan hates playing against you, that’s a sign you’re pretty good.
Q: What’s happened with Eugene Wilson? The guy played for a championship team, but looked like a rookie out there some of the time against the Dolphins. I know he’s changing positions, but he may only be good at safety.
- ref813, Memphis
A: Wilson has not had a particularly impressive camp. It may be that he’s pacing himself, but I have heard that he was barely hanging on to his job in New England for several years before being let go. I doubt that he gets cut in the end but he definitely has to step his game up to keep pace with the younger DBs. My regards to the Mid-South and Beale Street.
Q: The Bucs sure took a lot of heat for picking up Jerramy Stevens, but he seems to be at least saving his actions for the field now. What’s your take, Roy? Do you think he’ll end up being a distraction? To me, it seems so far, so good.
- Andy, New Orleans
A: As long as Jerramy Stevens stays out of trouble and plays hard he will not be a distraction. One thing to keep in mind with him is that all the information that came out about him this past offseaason was well in his past. He’s not real happy that all of his past mistakes are dredged up again, but that’s what happens. Those things tend to follow you.
Q: What have coaches said so far about Aqib Talib’s development and do you think he will challenge Buchanon for a starting spot any time this year?
- Khedric, Orlando
A: Buchanon’s contract is up after this year so it’s possible Talib takes over for him very soon. My guess, though, is that the Bucs will stick with Buchanon at least through this year. As long as Buchanon is playing well the Bucs can take their time and develop Talib. That’s probably the best approach.
Q: Roy, I hear great things about the O-line, but I am concerned about the defensive line. They are on their 4th coach in 4 years. Outside of Gaines Adams, they haven’t invested many high picks on the line, and I am not sure that he is going to live up to being the 4th overall pick. If you can’t beat out Kevin Carter, how good can you be? Is the line the weakest unit on the defensive side? Are we going to see more blitzes from linebackers and safeties to produce pressure?
- Niraj, Newark, DE
A: Well, we did see a lot of blitzes against the Dolphins, didn’t we? I know for sure that Monte Kiffin would rather not blitz and my gut tells me he wont’ have to. I think Adams will be fine and I think the Bucs D-line will really hum once Jovan Haye gets back in there. I;m a little concerned about Greg White’s ability to make a go of it on the left side but I believe the Bucs have done a good job adding pieces to the line. Jimmy Wilkerson and Marques Douglas are not slouches. They’ll push others to be their best.
Q: You guys are probably tired of hearing about this, but I was wondering what had Ira so confident about Favre the other night? Did the Bucs “tip him off” with some information that was sketchy at best? He’s taking a lot of heat (probably from fans who wanted Favre here) but Ira’s been at this a long time and I’m just wondering what happened? Surely he must have been told something.
- Greg Gilbert, Birmingham, AL
A: I can’t get into specifics, but I can tell you this: the feeling at certain levels of the Bucs organization that night was that Favre was very close to agreeing to come to Tampa Bay. He had talked to Coach Jon Gruden at that point and that had gone very well. There were people inside the organization who felt it was close to happening and that it would not go the other way. That’s what made Ira so confident. And don’t feel bad asking. We have to be accountable to our readers for what we report and print.
Q: Roy, anything new on LT Pettigout? How is he ?
- Joseph C. White, Port Charlotte
A: We’re seeing Luke just about every day at camp, but that’s no different than last year when his back was out. The Bucs plan fis to re-evaluate him next week. He could be back at practice sometime next week, but don’t be surprised if he takes another week or so to get right. That’s a tough knee operation he’s coming off of.
Q: Hey guys. It doesn’t seem like too long ago that the Bucs defense was classified as old. Now in the blink of an eye, 8 of 11 probable starters next year are 30 years old and under, and this does not include Talib and Piscitelli. After last year’s success, can we expect to watch this young core grow together towards becoming the consistent future NFL force that Buc fans expect from their team’s defense? Your thoughts? Thanks!
- Frank Stazzone, Long Island, NY
A: Good observation Frank. Bruce Allen has done a very good job of injecting youth and talent to an aging defense. Derrick Brooks and Ronde Barber are still the leaders there, but Barrett Ruud, Gaines Adams and Tanard Jackson are making big impacts. This group should continue to stay strong with all that young backfield talent. The young linebackers are good, too.
Q: Roy, it seems like everything we hear about the OL is positive; they’re the best, maybe, in the history of the team, etc. I know it’s hard to tell too much until the pads and lights come on, but do you think people could be right? Some of them (Sears, Joseph etc.) sure do look impressive at times!
- Dave Sharrer, Manhattan Beach, CA
A: It’s hard to find a negative with the OL. The starters are solid, if not potentially spectacular, especially inside. The depth is a bit of an issue, but Dan Buenning, Anthony Davis and Jeremy Zuttah are very versatile players. All could start somewhere else. The fact that most everyone here is very young is a bit of a concern, because these guys still have a ways to go to be at their best. They’re also not the best pass-protecting group in the league. Most of them are excellent run blockers, however, and if the Bucs lean a little more on the run this year they’ll continue to earn praise.
Q: Do you think that the Bucs will wear throwback uniforms this year? As crazy as it seems, I do miss the old colors!
- Will Parrott, Mount Pleasant, SC
A: I haven’t heard anything about wearing the throwbacks, but I’m with you. I’d love to see them do it one day. We’ll check into that for you and let you know what we hear.
Q: Regarding the Favre saga, I believe the Bucs are better off. We already have a Pro Bowl QB in Garcia plus adequate backups. I DO feel that now the Bucs should give Garcia a new contract; after all, they did him out of a $1 million bonus last season by holding him out the last two regular season games. What do you think will happen there?
- Jim Wright, Clearwater
A: First off, let me say I agree with you on the Favre issue. It would have been fun and exciting to have him here, but I’m not sure he would have made the team better. As for Jeff Garcia, I do think the Bucs will start to talk to him about some kind of extension but I;m not convinced a new deal is just around the corner. Bruce Allen said yesterday that there’s still plenty of time to do a new deal before Jeff reaches free agency. Earlier in the year he was saying there’s plenty of time before he has to go to camp. It seems as though they keep pushing the deadline. It could be they just wanted Garcia to right the ship and save their jobs and they plan to move on next year (or later this year) with someone else. I’m starting to get that feeling.
Q: Roy, there’s really a lot of back and forth today about what Bruce Allen was saying. You can tell that politics are in his genes! But do you think he actually got it right? Sure the Bucs have to play nice to Garcia (and Simms, Griese etc.) after the fact but I got the sense listening to you that this team is ok as-is and didn’t Favre as much as maybe he needed them? Just curious about your views the “day after”. Thanks!
- Paul Anderson, Atlanta
A:The Bucs always felt that Brett Favre was a luxury, not a necessity. If you’ve seen me do any reports for Channel 8 you’re probably sick of hearing me say that, but it’s the absolute truth. I always felt the same way, so I don’t really think Bruce was trying to fool anybody. He’s always evasive but yesterday was evasive to the extreme. Look at the TBO blog we did with the Q and A with Allen and compare the answers to the questions. That was so Bruce. He’s a master at not answering your question. We really have to formulate them carefully or he’ll find a loophole out that allows him avoid the point. That said, I do believe the Packers had no intention of moving Favre to the NFC. The only way that would have happened is if no other suitor had emerged.
Q: I really like Chad Pennington, although he doesn’t have a big arm. His arm is perfect for our system. I’m not sure he should/could win the starting job, but I think he can be a very good option backing up Garcia. Do you know or have you heard anything about the Bucs interest in Pennington? What are your thoughts?
- Matthew Charles, Oakland, ME
A: Bruce Allen was asked about him yesterday and was (get this) evasive. I doubt the Bucs are really all that interested. His history of injury problems is something they’re probably trying to avoid.
Bucs beat writer Roy Cummings takes a break from the heat and thunderstorms to answer your questions from training camp.
Q: How is rookie Geno Hayes progressing? Do you think he will make the team?
-Russell Clark, Lakeland
A: Geno changed his number from 45 to 54. That’s probably the most significant thing he’s done here. Don’t be alarmed, though. He’s doing fine and should make the team, but he’ll have to stand out on special teams to do it. That’s where the loss of Torrie Cox helps him.
Q: Do you see any possible scenario where Chris Simms could stick around? I was thinking in my mind that it would be great for Simms to excel in camp. If he and Gruden can bury the hatchet, he could still be that QB that they have been looking for. If he can grow up a little and he and Gruden can let bygones be bygones. That would be a real great story. I guess my friends think I am crazy but I think Simms has all the necessary tools to be a successful QB in whatever systems he plays in. Am I completely bonkers?
-Thomas Bowery, New Port Richey
A: I like your scenario. I believe it’s very possible that could come to fruition. I’ll say this, no quarterback here has looked any better than Simms. He’s doing very well, actually, but we have to see him in a game to get a real read. He could get some time against Miami. I would think the Bucs would want to do that. Better to move him early if they don’t want him, than to move him late. And no, you’re not bonkers. Simms is very skilled and very capable of playing in the NFL. That’s why three teams (at least) are after him. And that’s why the Bucs are holding on to him. He’s far from done.
Q: Do you think our chances with Garcia is better than Favre on us going to the big dance since Garcia knows the playbook better? And do you honestly think Favre would be able to pick up on it rather quickly?
-Todd, Port Saint John
A: First, off, let me say this: I think the Bucs are just fine with Garcia. I’ll use last year as the best evidence of that. Now, I also believe that Favre could come here and be successful, but why bother. He doesn’t know anyone here and that could mess with the chemistry. The Bucs are concerned about that, and rightfully so. They’re also concerned that Garcia won’t hold up physically and that’s a legitimate concern. If he were to blow out a knee or something then it would make a lot of sense to go after Favre. If that were to happen, the Bucs would come up with a dozen or so plays that Favre feels he knows and can execute best and that would become the playbook for the first four games. After that they’d start adding more. So, yes, it could work with Favre. But how much better would the Bucs really be. My guess is not much.
Q: After watching some of the position drills, does Todd Wash appear to be a heavy motivation type of coach in the mold of Rod Marinelli or is he more the soft spoken type? It’s my belief that the job he does this year is going to strongly determine how far this team goes.
-Fred Thompson, Valrico
A: He doesn’t seem to jump out at you the way Rod did or the way Raheem Morris does. But he’s good, believe me. He’s sharp and the players respect him. I could see him climbing the coaching ladder here quickly, just like Rod, Mike Tomlin and Joe Barry.
Q: Give us an update on some of the defensive guys from last years draft...Peterson, Black, Hayward. Are they looking like guys who are developing or guys who will be one and done...like the next Ellis Wyms without the injuryies of course?
-Marc, Halifax, NJ
A: Quincy Black was one of the players we told fans to watch here because he had as good an offseason program as anyone. He’s really caught on to the system and is playing with much more consistency. He’s at a point already where I think the Bucs would feel comfortable playing him in place of SLB Cato June, should June go down or need a blow. Hayward is a step behind Black right now, but he’s solid on special teams. He should make the team. Peterson is behind Jovan Haye and Ryan Sims at under tackle. He’s learning. It’s a slow process but the Bucs always knew they would have to invest some time in him. If they’re patient, the patience should pay off.
Q: Q: We have heard a lot of how Clayton has looked good, but how has Stoval looked so far?
-Michael Singleton, Laguna, CA
A: Stovall has looked very good, but he hasn’t flashed the way Clayton has. He made a couple of one-handed grabs that were really impressive but he still needs to run better routes and do a little better job getting open. He looks a lot better than he did this time last year, when he pretty much went into a shell after learning he was the odds-on favorite to win the starting flanker job.
Q: My How do you think the carries will be split up among the running backs percentage-wise? I was thinking of drafting Graham in fantasy but don’t want to waste too high of a draft if Bennett and Dunn will get 50% of the touches.
A: Drafting Graham makes sense. He’s going to get the bulk of the workload. I really think Bennett will be filtered in here and there. Dunn will get a lot of work, about 15 touches per game, maybe more. He’ll be used a lot as a pass catcher. Can’t go wrong with either him or Graham, but I’m not sure I’d make either one my top back.
Q: Do you have any update or opinion on Josh Johnson? I’m curious on how the rookie QB is doing so far?
-Paul, St. Petersburg
A: Johnson has a very strong arm and seems to be pretty smart. I think he’s picked things up quickly here. There’s no hurry with him, though. He’s not expected to play at all this year, so don’t get too worked up if he has a good outing or a bad one in exhibition games. The Bucs, I think, have learned their lesson from the Bruce Gradkowski fiasco. That kid was thrown in there way too soon. The Bucs won’t (shouldn’t) make the same mistake with this guy.
Q: How is Dexter Jackson looking as a backup wide receiver and more importantly as our starting Kickoff return man? Also how about Antonio Bryant, is he going to be another free agent pickup bust or is he looking like the real deal at WR???
- Nick Perkins, Melbourne
A: Go back through our site and find Anwar Richardson’s story on Jackson from July 31. It was a very insightful piece about how his size is a big problem that he may not be able to overcome. I’ll put it to you this way. There was an 11-on-11 drill in which Brian Griese threw him a pass. Jackson ran a curl route and was quickly surrounded by three defenders. Griese threw the ball high to avoid a pick and Jackson couldn’t get it. A player like Michael Clayton or Maurice Stovall would have made that catch. What it says is, Jackson will have to work outside the numbers to be successful. That limits what he can do and how he can be used. The Bucs are going to have to be smart with him. They’re going to have to find matchups that work for him and he’s going to learn to take full advantage of the speed edge he has.
As promised, Roy took time out of the Brett Favre watch here at Disney to answer your questions. We’ll try to have another session later in the week:
Q: After reading Peter King’s MMQB article, it seems that Favre is waiting for someone to “convince” him to join their team. It’s one of those rare opportunities the Bucs shouldn’t pass up. Why haven’t the Bucs made any attempts to contact Favre directly? If the reports are accurate, why are they waiting for him to file his reinstatement papers? Bruce Allen needs to step up and make contact for this to happen. Thanks for keeping us folks up to date on Bucs camp. You’re my lifeline out there! - Kim Sabo, Tampa
A: Though theyr’e doing a rather poor job of it, the Bucs are actually trying to distance themselves from the Favre issue because they’re concerned about the way it will affect Jeff Garcia’s psyche. They have to keep in mind the possibility that a deal for Favre never happens and that Garcia remains their quarterback.
Q: Do you believe based on his performance in training camp so far that Michael Clayton will actually do something this year? - Kenneth, Tampa
A: We haven’t seen enough to make a judgment yet but Clayton’s comments about this being his contract year in the story Anwar Richardson wrote says a lot. Look for Clayton to have a big year.
Q: Roy, How has Parris Warren looked so far? Does it look like he is favoring his ankle? - Terry, Greensboro, N.C.
A: Paris doesn’t seem to be favoring his ankle at all. He hasn’t splashed onto the scene here yet, but he has plenty of time to do that.
Q: Hey guys, I have one question. The Bucs have taken a PR hit with the re-signing of Jerramy Stevens to a position that seems to be well-stocked already. Why wouldn’t they consider signing a guy like Chris Henry, previously of the Bengals? They both have off-the-field issues, but Henry would at least give us a proven commodity in a position of need. - Nick, Newport News, Va
A: Good point about the pr hit; I get the feeling though that Henry is someone these guys just don’t want in their locker room.
Q: Roy, long time no talk. The most interesting position to me this camp is WRs. I’ve heard about Bryant all offseason (hoping its not the David Boston hype from the last 2 seasons) and Clayton’s refocus. In your opinion who is looked the best so far in training camp? - Ash, Tampa
A: Clayton. He really looks like he’s determined to have a turn-around season.
Q: Roy, being that the receiving corps is the area that pretty much could make or break our run at the Super Bowl, do you think the fellas in the front office have thought or currently trying to get WR Eric Parker or WR Terry Glenn?? Both receivers have proven they can do it before, and and they both are speedy receivers who would excel in the flanker position, so why not? - Shawn Sudler, Greenville, NC
A: The Bucs have no interest in Parker, primarily because he’s still hurt. Glenn is someone I think they will consider but we’ve heard nothing along those lines yet.
Q: Roy, With the Bucs having their first practice in pads today, how did they split reps at QB? We have heard a lot of how Clayton has looked good, but how has Stovall looked so far? - Michael Singleton, Laguna Niguel, CA
A: Jeff Garcia got most of the reps this morning; Luke McCown got the second-most it seemed. They’ll split them so that it all evens out. This battle for the backup job won’t shake out until near the end of camp. Chris Simms is actually getting more reps than I thought he would. And you know what, he looks as good as Griese, McCown and Garcia. Stovall has looked good, too.
Q: Hi Roy, Who do you think has looked the best so far in the battle for the #2 WR spot? - Jason Schultz, Lewiston, PA
A: Michael Clayton. He just seems to have more fight in him.
Q: Hi Roy and Ira. Was wondering who has been playing at the first team under tackle and left end spots on the defensive line? - Fred Thompson, Valrico
A: Good question; Jovan Haye has been at under tackle; Kevin Carter has been with the first-teamers at LDE.
Q: How is Warrick Dunn looking out there? - Todd, Port St. John
A: He’s getting a lot of reps and looks very good.
Q: How is Dexter Jackson’s progress? Have you seen anything that “wowed” you in practice? - Justin Evans, Wilmington, NC
A: Not really; the biggest concern is his size. He had one ball thrown to him over the middle here that the QB had to throw high to avoid throwing an interception and Jackson couldn’t make the leap to make the catch. He’s going to have to work outside the numbers and the Bucs are going to have be creative to get him matched up properly. Bottom line: he’s awfully small for a wideout. He could still make it as a return man, but this is looking like a risky pick.
Q: How do you see the RB situation playing out? From the number of snaps with the first team, who looks like they have the advantage so far and are they trying to work Bennett into the offense a little more? Maybe having him line up in the slot? Having his speed on the field can only help keep a defense honest. - Bill, Scranton, PA.
A: Bennett is getting a lot of reps, but I wouldn’t reach much into that. The Bucs know what they have in Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn. Bennett still has to prove he knows the playbook. I think he’s doing that and he could give them a real explosive element if he can stay healthy.
Q: In recent years the Bucs have invested heavily in high draft picks and free agency in the offensive line. It appears that investment is about to pay off. My question is what is the status of Luke Petitgout? He was playing very well before his injury. If he could return to that level it would be a huge boost to both the starting unit and the depth of what might be the best line in their division and one of the better ones in the NFC.
Fredrick, Tampa
A: Petitgout didn’t participate with the team during the offseason workout program. He worked out on his own, so my guess is that he will still be limited when camp opens. He’s going to have to battle for the starting spot with Donald Penn, but I believe the Bucs see Penn as a better swing tackle (capable of playing both right and left side) so Petitgout will get the nod on the left side if all things are equal. We really won’t know his status until camp starts, so he bears watching.
Roy C.
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me how Cadillac is doing, and do you think he will ever play again if he cant this year? I hate to see such a talented, and nice persons career over soo early.
Jonathan Van Pelt, Tampa
A: Jonathan, Caddy seems to be making good progress in his comeback attempt, but we really won’t know how much progress he’s making until we get to camp and see him working out on a daily basis.
We’ve speculated for weeks that the likelihood is that Williams will wind up starting the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list. That will give the Bucs another six weeks to evaluate him and make a decision.
My guess is that he winds up on IR after that. And the only reason I say that is because I believe it’s the right way to go with him.
Most players who suffer the injury Cadillac suffered never return from it. Those that do are usually a shadow of their former selves. For Cadillac to have the best chance to return at all he has to be 100 percent healthy. The best way for him to reach that status is to spend all of this year rehabbing and make a go of it next year.
Roy C.
Q: I can’t figure out why the Bucs haven’t been players in the bidding for WRs. Clearly they have the money to have matched the contracts offered to Hackett and Bryant Johnson. Do you think they’re content now to get their WR playmaker (someone like a DeSean Jackson) in the draft? Or are they waiting for some experienced veteran to become a salary cap casualty?—Paul Rybinski, Lawrenceville, N.J.
A: It’s clear the Bucs weren’t knocked out by the WR talent available in free agency. They had plenty of money to pursue Hackett or Johnson or Berrian, but they never put the full-court press on. It’s difficult to know in advance who will be available at pick No. 20 and many first-round choices take a few years before contributing significantly. At this point, the Bucs have done little to address their expressed need for speed on the flanks and in the backfield. It’s a frustrating and anxious time for Buc fans at the moment.
Q: Ira or Roy, do you guys see the Bucs possibly looking at bringing in Reche Caldwell or Tampa’s own Darrell Jackson since Bryant Johnson signed with the 49ers and Hackett isn’t showing a real interest with the bucs? Thanks.—Patrick Dotson, Tampa
A: That could happen but I really believe the Bucs plan is to lean more on Michael Clayton and Maurice Stovall and draft heavy for that position in April.
Q: Roy or Ira, with all the QB trouble the Bucs have, not happy with McCown’s progress or Bruce Gradkowski’s and we don’t know if Simms will ever be healthy again, do the Bucs like the QB from Delaware, Joe Flacco? And would they take a chance on him if still available in the second round? He has a big upside, has a big arm is mobile and he could learn from Garcia for a couple years.—Joseph C. White, Port Charlotte
A: The Bucs love the QB from Delaware. They especially love his arm. So does everybody else. I have been saying for weeks now that the Bucs will probably draft a quarterback this year and I’m sticking to that prediction. The good news is that a lot of the quarterbacks in this year’s draft are dropping because of lack of need and fear of paying too much. That means the Bucs may have a shot at a guy like Flacco, possibly in the third round. He’d be a good acquisition there. And don’t buy into that theory that the Bucs aren’t interested because Coach Jon Gruden didn’t attend his pro day. Gruden saw Flacco at the Senior Bowl and the combine. Between that and the tape he saw enough to make a judgment on him.
Q: Hey Roy. I hear all this talk about Larry Fitzgerald being unhappy in Arizona and the possibility of a trade. What do you think it would take to snag him? Is this year’s first-round pick enough? (It would seem like a no-brainer on the Bucs’ part to use the pick for a known quantity at receiver rather than take a chance on a young guy.) Or would it require the pick PLUS someone else? Would the pick plus Chris Simms be attractive enough?—Paul Rybinski, Lawrenceville, N.J.
A: I think that first-round pick would be very attractive. The problem is Fitzergald’s salary and cap number are not attractive at all. Fitzgerald is due to earn $14.6 million this year and $17.4 million in 2009. Throw in the proration on his original signing bonus and you’ve got a cap hit of $20 million. It’s just too much. That and the fact the Cardinals really aren’t interested in trading Fitzgerald is why no one will get him in a trade. He’ll be staying in Arizona.
Q: If the Bucs do not sign a veteran cornerback soon, what are the chances of re-signing Brian Kelly? Has he visited with any other teams? What would the terms of the contract likely be in regards to length and money?—Sean Pearce, Orlando
A: Although Kelly is the best fit for the Bucs out of the remaining free agent cornerbacks, it’s unlikely he’ll return to Tampa. Look for him to land with the Lions, reuniting with former Buc defensive coaches Rod Marinelli and Joe Barry.
Q: Hey guys. With the Bucs’ inability to secure answers to some glaring holes on their team, along with plenty of salary cap space still available, what if they were to target their focus on the draft? If they were to package some picks/players and get another pick in the first round and grab their WR and CB through that means, they would clearly have the money to pay for them and we continue to get younger. I see this as a great response to the lackluster offseason so far. What do you think? Thank you as always!—Frank Stazzone, Long Island, N.Y.
A: To get another first-round pick, the Bucs would have to be both creative and daring. They don’t have much to dangle that other teams would covet. Also, two first-round picks are no guarantee in terms of instant impact. You don’t want to go into any draft with huge needs that could lead to selecting a lesser player just because he plays a position you crave. Acquiring additional picks is a smart strategy, but adding a first-rounder will be a challenge for GM Bruce Allen.
Q: Roy or Ira, are the Bucs going to be looking for another LB in the draft for when Derrick Brooks does retire, or is Quincy Black the answer?—Joseph C. White, Port Charlotte
A: The plan is to move Cato June to the weak-side LB spot when Brooks retires. Brooks had a good season in 2007, but he can’t go on forever and June fits Tampa’s defensive scheme as Brooks’ successor. Although coaches like Quincy Black, still unproven at the NFL level, they figure to add a LB or two in the offseason, especially a backup in the middle behind Ruud.
Q: At the combine Antonio Cromartie’s cousin, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, was the star of the secondary, running a 4.33 and showing footwork few cornerbacks have shown in years. Should the Buccaneers pencil Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in at No. 20 in the draft? Or will he already be long gone by the 20th pick?—Joel Schaffer, Belleair Bluffs
A: CB is definitely a need position, with Brian Kelly moving on to another team, but my best guess is the Bucs draft for offensive speed in the first round—either WR or RB. That’s their No. 1 priority and I think they feel they can get a decent nickel back later in the draft or in free agency.
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