Charles

Sims

Released by the Bucs at final cuts, Sims’ name has not come up much this season. With both Dion Lewis and Derrick Henry healthy, Sims would see precious few snaps were he to get a contract.

They’re very good times for a back considered “ordinary” in some circles. Sims has drawn Matt Forte comparisons for his size (6'0/214) and all-around game. He is the premier pass protector in this year’s running back class, and can now add plus long speed to his resume. Sims is not quite a special talent, but has a chance to play early in the NFL. His on-field “FBI” (football intelligence) stands out consistently on West Virginia tape.

Doug Martin played just a handful of snaps before exiting, and Sims was the next man up to get carries with the first-team offense. As Bucs beat writers have noted, Sims is running lower to the ground this year in an effort to become a more complete back. He’s still more noted for his pass-game work, but Sims would be the man to own in a possible three-down role should Martin ever get hurt. Sims’ touchdown grab Friday night came on a rollout by Jameis Winston, who bought time before finding Sims from three yards out.

Sims was forced to miss the preseason opener, but his ankle injury was never considered serious. He will resume his duties as the passing-game complement to Doug Martin.

Sims has missed the last several practices with an ankle injury, and Jackson is dealing with an undisclosed issue. There is no reason to risk either in a meaningless game. Both should be back on the practice field sooner rather than later.

At the Combine, coach Dirk Koetter called Sims “an every-down back, if need be.” Although he benefited from facing softer sub-package fronts while Doug Martin tangled more with base defenses, Sims made the most of his 2015 rushing opportunities by averaging 4.94 YPC. Cook expects Sims’ increased role to “cut into Martin’s total yardage.” Cook still anticipates Martin being a “focal point of the offense,” of course. Sims is an intriguing middle-round fantasy pick. He offers standalone flex value and could explode if Martin goes down.

It was an extremely disappointing day for Sims on an afternoon where Doug Martin got knocked out early with a hamstring injury. The Bucs fell behind quickly, ruining any chance Sims had for volume on the ground. He drew only five passing-game targets, one of which was tipped and returned for a pick six. Sims will be an RB2 for Week 3 against the Rams if Martin is inactive.

Sims ceded six touches to Jacquizz Rodgers, but slid right into a workhorse role with Doug Martin sidelined. His touchdown, a goal-line carry, came after two failed attempts. It was a gift for Sims’ fantasy owners that the Bucs stuck with him after getting brickwalled. Sims dished out a number of nice cuts, but looked a bit upright and stiff. He’s an extremely useful player, but not about to Wally Pipp Martin. Sims will be a mid-range RB2 against the Broncos’ elite defense in Week 4.

Sims is almost certainly out after missing the entire week of practice. With Doug Martin also out, Jacquizz Rodgers will likely get the start with rookie Peyton Barber perhaps seeing the first carries of his career. It is a situation to avoid if possible, but Rodgers makes for a desperation RB3 play in a tough bye week.

Tampa Bay also listed DT Gerald McCoy (calf), DE Robert Ayers (ankle), and DT Clinton McDonald (hamstring) as doubtful despite the trio missing practice both Friday and Saturday. Ridiculous designations aside, all five will miss Monday night’s game. Jacquizz Rodgers is expected to get the start at running back.