Buccaneers embattled WR Michael Clayton said that he understands his roster status is not safe with Tampa Bay. Clayton is coming off the worst season of his career just after receiving a lucrative contract extension prior to the 2009 season.
Last season the Bucs started Byron Leftwich, Josh Johnson, and Josh Freeman at quarterback. During the 2009 offseason and training camp, Leftwich and Luke McCown were battling for the right to start. Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris agreed with Clayton's claim about the quarterback continuity.
Clayton has not produced a 40-catch, 500-yard, or multiple touchdown season in the past five years. Still, the Buccaneers had some very productive receivers in that time.
Clayton, the team's first-round pick in 2004, has never produced the numbers that he was able to generate during his rookie season when he had 80 catches for 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns. Clayton feels that he can have an impact on the roster and earn playing time in 2010.
This offseason Tampa Bay traded for veteran Reggie Brown and drafted wide receivers Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams. Clayton is facing tough competition to get any playing time in addition to making the team. The Buccaneers also have holdovers Maurice Stovall, Mark Bradley, and Sammie Stroughter competing for playing time.
Clayton is just not a dependable fantasy player and hasn't been since his remarkable rookie season in 2004. Maybe a change of scenery would be best, but he'll need to prove himself a few weeks in a row no matter where he is before he's even considered a fantasy starter. He should be on your waiver wire come the first week of the season...
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