Survivor I - Brian Griese Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	CMP	ATT	PYD	PTD	INT	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	FPT	RANK
2002	291	436	3214	15	15	37	107	1	222.4	20
2003	74	130	813	5	6	5	15	0	56.1	44
2004	233	336	2632	20	12	30	17	0	200.9	23

Positives - Brian Griese is the clear cut starter in Tampa Bay this season after starting last year as the # 3. Brian has the opportunity to return to the top 20 QB he was in Denver from 1999-2002. TB QB Brad Johnson finished at # 9 in 2003, so the possibility under Gruden exists for Griese to put up QB #1 stats. Michael Clayton should improve after his stellar rookie campaign. Pittman should remain the third down back that is involved in the passing game, as well as the addition of TE Alex Smith, who could be the best rookie TE this season. Brian has the tools and players to lead this team into the playoffs.

Negatives - Chris Simms and Luke McCown also want to lead the Bucs, and are both capable QBs. Gruden has not had much success since the Super Bowl win in 02, and may be under pressure to put Brian on a shorter leash. Another WR must step up with Clayton, with Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard not getting any younger. Cadillac Williams will also have to prove a capable RB to take pressure off the passing game.

Draft Strategy - There was a run on QBs in the 11th round, but I was able to get the player I wanted. He would not have made it any further, as two more quarterbacks were selected before I chose again. With 4 RBs, 4 WRs, 2 QBs and a TE at the midway point in the draft, I’m very comfortable with my team and my chances against my opponents.