Stocker Says Bucs Want “All-Around Tight End”
June 4th, 2013
Kellen Winslow wouldn’t block, couldn’t block, or had no interest in blocking. Dallas Clark probably just couldn’t.
And it seems the Bucs have had enough of one-dimensional TEs, so claims Luke Stocker, who is vying for a starting gig in Mike Sullivan’s tight-end unfriendly passing attack.
“My goal this offseason is to build the confidence in the coaches and myself, and use these past two years behind Kellen Winslow, Jr., Dallas Clark, guys that are really established pass catchers, all the small things I’ve learned from them, try to put that in my own game and be the all-around tight end this organization is looking for.” Stocker told Buccaneers.com.
Joe’s always interested to hear from a player about what the organization wants. But can Stocker meet the Bucs needs in his third season?
Perhaps. Rockstar general manager Mark Dominik said Stocker has rocked up to 270 pounds from 250 pounds, and Joe’s always considered a Stocker a solid pass catcher, though he’s not quick, or a big threat up the gut of a defense, by any stretch.
June 4th, 2013 at 9:43 am
I like that Stocker beefed up, he was never going to out race anybody, maybe now he can use that big frame of his to box out defenders and catch some mid range routes.
June 4th, 2013 at 9:52 am
they are just trying to cover up the biggest weakness on offense. Build the strongest run game they can, to take the ball away from JFro. if they limit his mistakes and only set up big play-action passes, is when Jfro has his only success.
June 4th, 2013 at 9:59 am
@the_bucs_realist
So what you’re saying is, it’s not about taking advantage of having one of the best RB’s, it’s about covering Josh Freeman’s ass? That s so stupid. Freeman is definitely NOT our biggest weakness, you’re just his biggest hater.
June 4th, 2013 at 10:10 am
This will be Stocker’s 3rd year, the one in which he should make the most progress. I like him and am hoping for the best from him.
Really, he is developing into a good all-around TE. This year will be the biggest measuring stick.
June 4th, 2013 at 10:15 am
Freeman and Stocker are the biggest question marks on the offense.
A big year from each of them, and we make the playoffs.
Stocker cost us 2 fourth round picks.
June 4th, 2013 at 10:20 am
It’s my observation that this offense uses the TE & FB to of course mainly block, but in the passing game use these guys to just keep the chains moving, not big plays. If its 3rd & short to medium, the tight end & fullbacks are outlets guys to make high percentage receptions. If Stockers can become a good to very good blocker, that will only help him do what Walter suggests & keep the chains moving.
June 4th, 2013 at 10:49 am
Here hoping Stocker blossoms. I think he can. Now, when he catches the ball, I dont think he can go anywhere, but I think he has serious value. Plus, as a good blocking Tight End, he can help make up for the difficiencies in Penn and Dotson’s run-blocking. Clark (as Joe stated) was about as effective a blocker as I was from my couch.
This could lead to even bigger things in the run game.
June 4th, 2013 at 11:25 am
@kalind ~ well said. i truly believe he has serious value as well and IS improving all around. great read and use the force Luke!
June 4th, 2013 at 12:41 pm
I think Crabtree and Stocker will compliment each other well, in this offense. I also want to see what Danny Noble can contribute. He is very athletic, in his second year, and fully recovered from a hamstring tear.
June 4th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Pete hit the nail on the head. This is still Sullivan’s offense and heavy run game to play action is how we well move the chains and score. Tight ends are not the focal point or placed to line up at the newer hybrid spots i.e. out wide or in the slot.
June 4th, 2013 at 3:34 pm
BucDan Says:
“Pete hit the nail on the head. This is still Sullivan’s offense and heavy run game to play action is how we well move the chains and score.”
I don’t think personally that we will be a run-first team. I believe we will be strong in the run game, but I think passing will be the bread and butter. Will have to be in this division.
June 4th, 2013 at 5:43 pm
As usual the JFro comment and nothing more.
June 4th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
If Stocker can become a good in line blocker, and catch a pass 10 yards behind the line of scrimmage dependably- then he will do what this team needs him to do.
Hopefully, he can