Graham's season in jeopardy

Bucs running back Earnest Graham's season "could be in jeopardy," coach Jon Gruden said during his news conference Monday at One Buc Place.

Graham sustained an unspecified ankle injury on his first carry of Sunday's 19-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

"Earnest Graham's ankle looks to be a serious injury," Gruden said, "and his status for the rest of the season is very much in question right now."

Graham landed awkwardly in a pile, Gruden said. Gruden said he "didn't have the exact medical terms right now," but expects to get final test results on the ankle in the next couple of hours.

"He means a lot to us," Gruden said. "He's done so much for us the last couple of years. He's a key reason why we are where we are (7-3)."

With Graham out, the Bucs will have to lean even more heavily on Warrick Dunn, who carried 20 times for 53 yards and caught four passes for 65 yards on Sunday, and Clifton Smith, who fumbled for the third time in three games. Fullback B.J. Askew might have to carry the ball as well.

It also means Cadillac Williams, who was activated from the physically unable to perform list last week but was inactive on Sunday, is one step closer to returning to the lineup.

"We brought Cadillac up with the understanding he was ready to go," Gruden said.

Rookie linebacker Geno Hayes, formerly of Florida State, left with an injured knee. His season also "could be in jeopardy right now," Gruden said.