Simms:"I don't think I lost my job"

   Chris Simms expected the Bucs to sign at least one veteran quarterback in the off-season. He wasn't shocked when they acquired two.

   Despite the Bucs signing of Jeff Garcia and trading for Jake Plummer, Simms believes it will be an open competition for the starting job in training camp.

   Simms, who signed a two-year contract extension in Dec., broke his silence Wednesday about the Bucs sudden glut of quarterbacks. With the addition of Garcia and Plummer, the Bucs have five quarterbacks under contract.

   Appearing on the Dan Patrick Show on ESPN radio Wednesday, Simms said he had not yet spoken to coach Jon Gruden but believes he has not been replaced - yet.

   ""I don't think I lost my job, I'm not going to say that,'' Simms said. ""But I knew there was going be a competition during training camp, that's just the way it's going to be this year.''

  Simms was reminded that with Garcia age 37, the Eagles free agent did not come to Tampa Bay to be the backup quarterback.

   ""Maybe not. I don't know. But I haven't been told anything different,'' Simms said. ""I don't know if he has. But from what I know right now, nobody is the starting quarterback. I haven't heard coach Gruden come out and say anything or Bruce Allen. So right now, I just think it's an open job.''

   Simms said he was kept informed of the Bucs plans over the weekend by general manager Bruce Allen. But Simms said he can't fight the perception that he's not a proven starter in the NFL. Simms went 0-3 last season before rupturing his spleen and finishing the year on injured reserve.

   ""I have complete confidence in myself,'' Simms said. ""But at the same time, I try to be real with myself and the perception out there is that I haven't proven myself yet. I understand that. You know me, I welcome all challenges, always.''

   Simms was asked if he thought the Bucs were done stocking up on quarterbacks?

   ""Who knows with us,'' Simms said. ""They might draft Brady Quinn.''

 

      

Comments

[John McNeilly]

Phil didn't raise no fool. Until Chris proves himself (and Christ, he hasn't been in the league for all that long!), he's not going to get pulled into a pointless QB controversy. He's 25 and Garcia is 37...that alone probably gives you an idea of Simm's mindset and confidence level going into next season.

And that competition will be very good for him.

We've all seen that sweet long ball he throws -- he get's that together and we're in good shape!

[John McNeilly]

Forgot to mention: his comment about Brady Quinn at the end of the piece: a gratuitous shot at Gruden?

Pretty funny....