The Buccaneers lost 18-17 to the Jets on Sunday in their season opener, a loss that had a lot to do with their total lack of discipline -- 13 penalties -- than their lack of an Olympic track star on the roster but they may be adding one of the latter on Monday all the same.
According to Scott Reynolds of Pewter Report, Jeff Demps will be reporting to the Bucs on Monday. Demps was acquired from the Patriots in an offseason trade for LeGarrette Blount, but has spent the time since then concentrating on his track career. Per the report, the team will get a one-week roster exemption to see how Demps fits with the roster and decide if they want to activate him.
If Demps does stick, he’ll challenge for a role behind Doug Martin on offense in addition to kickoff return duties well suited for a player with his speed. The Bucs didn’t hand the ball to any back other than Martin in their opener. Reynolds also reports that the team is believed to have a package of offensive plays for Demps that would use him as a “Tavon Austin-type” threat.
Demps will need to earn a spot on the roster to make that happen. If he can go five minutes without getting a penalty, it will be a good start on that front.