Tampa Bay Quarterback – Fantasy Perspective

Going into the 2009 fantasy football season, there are many quarterback controversies all around the NFL. One such quarterback controversy will take place in Tampa Bay where the Buccaneers don’t have a clear cut QB at this point.

Sources close to the situation believe that Luke McCown has a good chance of beginning the year as the starter. He has been with the Bucs for the last few years but he doesn’t have much NFL experience. His only on field experience came with the Cleveland Browns in 2004 and the Bucaneers in 2007 and 2008. In total, he has has completed 142 of 238 passes and has nine touchdowns to go with 10 interceptions.

McCown has decent size and has a stronger than average arm. If he holds onto the starting gig, he’ll be a decent fantasy football option. However, going into the season, he’d be best used as a third-string fantasy QB.

Another option in Tampa Bay is Byron Leftwich. After starting his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he never really lived up to expectations. He struggled with injuries and lack of quality wide receiving options didn’t help.

Last year, Leftwich won a Super Bowl ring as Ben Roethlisberger’s backup. In his limited time, Leftwich was impressive. If he wins the Buccaneers jobs, he doesn’t have a high ceiling but he doesn’t have as risk as McCown due to his experience.

Last but not least is Josh Freeman. The Bucs picked him in the first round and he’ll eventually be the team’s starter at QB. The question is when his time will arrive. It might be this season but it also might take a few seasons for him to grow into the position.