Bucs Sign RB Michael Bennett

The Bucs ponied up a conditional 2nr round pick for Bennett, a guy known as one of the fastest players in the NFL, and someone that burned the Bucs on an 85 yard TD run back in 2002. During that year, when he was the Vikings' primary back, he rushed 255 times for 1296 yards, 5.1 per pop. He's typically been a guy that consistently gets good yardage, then pops a big one. He's a home run hitter who can also receive, as evidenced by his 145 career receptions for 1164 yards in 6 and a quarter seasons. His career rushing numbers are 769 carries for 3426 yards (4.45 yards/att).

Bennett will bring the Bucs a guy who has good vision and burst to the hole. Graham had some problems getting to the hole quick enough to eek out some yards, allowing the quick Titans' defense to close the hole before he could get started. Bennett provides that high speed 0-40 time that allows him to squirt through brief holes and still pick up yards. When he gets into the secondary, he's tough to stop, and even tougher to catch from behind. Now, Graham believes that he's shaking off the rust, and he'll likely get more chances to prove that, but Bennett will provide the Bucs with the threat they need in the running game, especially the type that will burn an overly aggressive defense on draws and screens. That will help slow the rush down and keep Garcia alive. I like the pick-up and look forward to seeing him on the field. The big question now will be how soon can he get integrated into the Bucs' offense? We shall see.