Buccaneers Send Jacquies Smith to IR, Sign Jacquizz Rodgers to Active Roster
The Buccaneers added to their stable of running backs, signing Jacquizz Rodgers to a one year contract.
There had been some question about the Buccaneers‘ running back depth chart. At one point it was just two with Doug Martin and Charles Sims, and even when Peyton Barber was added to the group, people had noted the lack of depth. An injury would have left them fairly barren at the position.
Well, there is an injury, but at defensive line, as Jacquies Smith is headed to injured reserve, and that left a roster spot available. According to Marc Sessler of NFL.com and Zach Shapiro of the Pewter Report, the Bucs are signing running back Jacquizz Rodgers to a one-year deal, adding him to the stable of running backs at the disposal of Dirk Koetter.
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Rodgers comes to Tampa with some experience, having played in Atlanta in 2011-2012 when coach Koetter was the offensive coordinator. He was primarily used as a third down, change of pace back, but did post 72 receptions for 590 yards out of the backfield, and set career-highs in both categories during Koetter’s tenure. He also added 567 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 151 carries.
He also gives an added dimension in the kick return game. In his career between Atlanta and Chicago Rodgers has returned 50 kickoffs and averaged 23.8 yards per return. If desired, the Bucs can change things up and add some variety on special teams as well.
All in all, it’s a good move. The Bucs needed more bodies at the running back position. Three was simply not enough. Per Jenna Laine of ESPN, the contract is only for one year, and since he was signed after week one, they will not be required to pay Rodgers any termination money if he is released.
Good low-risk high-reward move by Jason Licht and company.