Greg Schiano Press Conference 8/27: Josh Freeman’s Confidence, Danny Gorrer’s Surgery
By Leo Howell
December 16, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Danny Gorrer (36) and middle linebacker Mason Foster (59) are unable to come up with a deflected pass against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been a few days since we got any new news about the Buccaneers from the Head Coach himself, so let’s go over some highlights from today’s press conference with Greg Schiano.
- Safety Dashon Goldson was seen riding a bike today in practice, which usually indicates an injury. But Schiano confirmed that it was more of a rest from constant practicing as Goldson was installed as the leader of the defensive backfield.
- On the injury “good news” front, fullback Erik Lorig was back on the field today, but the Bucs are taking things slow with him. There has already been a setback in his recovery, so they want to be sure he’s ready for opening day by taking things slow.
- And on the “bad news” side of things, cornerback Danny Gorrer had groin surgery, and will miss some time. Schiano did stress it was not season ending, and said he’d be out for “a little bit,” but it was unclear the exact timeline of the recovery.
- Gorrer’s absence obviously puts a dent into the depth at cornerback for the Buccaneers, who suddenly have a lot less to work with as Anthony Gaitor and Danny Gorrer are both sidelined. But Schiano said there’s still enough to work with, and things aren’t yet “dicey.” They don’t have the personnel to handle more losses, but Schiano said that’s all relative. He said it’s not nearly as bad as last year, and that’s partially because the experiences of last season have prepared them for how to deal with a lack of depth at corner.
- The lack of depth at corner will not rush Darrelle Revis back, according to the head coach. He’s on track with his recovery, but the situation is not dire enough to demand Revis to risk a setback just to cover for Gaitor and Gorrer.
- When asked about Josh Freeman‘s confidence, Schiano said he has no reason to believe Freeman lost any confidence after Saturday night’s game. The coach actually praised the way Freeman saw what was going on during the game, saying that the sideline comments Freeman made about what he saw were reflected on tape review. The Bucs’ head coach said the team will help protect Freeman better and help him get rid of the ball, and “he’s gonna be fine.”
- And finally, regarding Gabe Carimi‘s potential move to guard to cover for Carl Nicks, Schiano said it’s “viable,” but they’re still considering other options at the position. Carimi did some things well, but there are things they want to fix as well.