Josh Freeman: “I Know Who I Am as a Player”

Jul 29, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman (5) throws the ball during training camp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Freeman held a press conference today after practice to meet with the media formally and answer questions about the preseason, and about recent comments made by Fran Tarkenton which spoke down on the Buccaneers’ quarterback.

Here are some of the highlights from his time at the podium:

Freeman addressed the comments by Tarkenton (which he had not heard before) by saying that Fran’s career speaks for itself, but that “The important thing is that myself and the people in this building have faith and know who I am as a player.”

Josh was asked about his command in huddle this preseason, as there have been reports that he’s been more in command of his teammates this summer. He said that his knowledge of the offense and formations have increased, which has led to more comfort and familiarity. He said this offseason they have worked on blocking calls, reads, and other things, and he feels that he has a better chemistry with the linemen, backs, and everyone else included.

Aug 16, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman (5) warms up prior to a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

In regards to the upcoming preseason game against the Miami Dolphins, Freeman said his goals are to protect the football, have a “clean operation, and to push the tempo. When jokingly asked about Mike Williams’ prediction of nine touchdowns in the game, he laughed and said “Let’s do it!”

Freeman was then asked about his lack of snaps because the team has yet to convert on offense while he’s been on the field. He responded that it’s frustrating to have negative plays, and there was specifically frustration against the Patriots. He did say that he liked his command of the offense against the Patriots, and wishes he could have better handled the pass rush on one of the sacks, because during film study he saw a release valve he could have thrown to.

Josh also discussed his mistakes over the past couple of seasons, and said that it usually comes from trying to force things, or from dealing with edge pressure and losing track of a safety or something of that sort. But he did say there is no one thing that you can point to and say “Do this and never throw another [interception] again…”

Freeman also said that he’s quickly developing chemistry with Kevin Ogletree, because he’s such a smart, hard-working player. That makes it easy to get on the same page with his new receiver.