Schiano Endorses Eric Page
August 28th, 2013
Barring a major, unexpected change, the Bucs will open the regular season with a 21-year-old return man out of the University of Toledo.
That would be Eric Page, who has taken over the job in preseason. He’s looked good, not great. But most important for the New Schiano Order, Page hasn’t fumbled, a problem that cost Preston Parker the job last season, among other Bucs.
“I think [Eric] Page has done a good job. Every game he’s done a better job. He looks very confident back there. He looks like he belongs,” Greg Schiano said today after practice.
Page blew out his knee with the Broncos last season and is 13 months removed from ACL surgery. It’s interesting that Schiano noted that Page is getting better steadily. If you ask Page, he’ll tell you he’s also getting physically stronger with each game.
Page was a hot target of the Bucs last season after coming out of college undrafted, but Page chose the Broncos. However, the Bucs’ interest didn’t subside.
“I’m just glad they kept pursuing me and trusted me to come back,” Page said today.
Joe’s pulling for the kid in a big way. Unless Joe’s overlooking someone, the Bucs don’t have a legitimate returner behind Page.
August 28th, 2013 at 12:52 pm
“Unless Joe’s overlooking someone…”
You’re not.
August 28th, 2013 at 1:31 pm
I think this guy is going to be pretty good for us.
When is demps supposed to get in to Tampa?
August 28th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
I’ve rooted for Page from the start. Demps won’t be showing up at all. I’m beginning to think he never will.
But page is likely the better choice. Michael Smith, when he comes back, may give Page a run for his money if Page isn’t working out. But I suspect Page will get us 3-5 kick returns for TDs per season.
August 28th, 2013 at 1:48 pm
1 day before the final pre-season game. I think its safe to assume Demps wont be here or make the team.
August 28th, 2013 at 2:00 pm
When is demps supposed to get in to Tampa?
I think he’s supposed to get here around the same time Jake Plummer is!
August 28th, 2013 at 2:00 pm
@ Couch….
Safe to say…but all things are possible…
Page fumbles 3 times or is injured tomorrow…..Demps comes in….practices but doesn’t play first game….ready & plays in NO game in Tampa.
Likely….hell no…but possible.
August 28th, 2013 at 2:02 pm
Page looking pretty good so far.
How long will Michael Smith be out with his foot injury? He had a nice return against the pats.
August 28th, 2013 at 2:15 pm
Pretty sure Smith is on the IR… Gone for the Year…
August 28th, 2013 at 2:20 pm
what about Josh Cribbs, he is outthere?/////////////////
August 28th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
Total bullshot. We are just as bad off at returner as we were last year. Maybe worse.
August 28th, 2013 at 4:19 pm
My Mom has got a bad attitude.
August 29th, 2013 at 7:33 am
Wait, our only legitimate returner is a still-injured undrafted free agent with no NFL experience who’s been out for a year with a blown ACL? Fanfriggintastic.
August 29th, 2013 at 9:02 am
@lou I was yelling for him as soon as the browns released him. He would have competed for the third receiver spot and got us a deep threat and been a difference maker on special teams. He was just released by the raiders a few days ago
August 31st, 2013 at 6:10 pm
Eric will surprise a lot of people. Kid has a big heart and great work ethic. He will be helpful to the team.