Tampa Bay Signs Running Back Crockett

Tampa, FL (AHN) - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers banged-up backfield received some reinforcement on Wednesday with the signing of 13th year pro Zach Crockett. The Bucs, in need of help at running back due to recent injuries suffered by Carnell "Cadillac" Williams and Michael Pittman, will turn to a player who has played for Indianapolis, Oakland and Jacksonville.

Crockett, 34, has rushed for 1,701 yards and 36 touchdowns in 61 career starts. He also played for Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden, when the latter led Oakland earlier this decade.

The short-yardage specialist piled up 28 of his scores from 2000-03 and fumbled just twice over that span.

To make room for Crockett, the Bucs placed disappointing quarterback Chris Simms on injured reserve as he has been slow to recover after surgery to remove a spleen.

Tampa Bay (3-2) is in a first-place tie with the Carolina Panthers in the NFL South heading into Sunday's game vs. the Tennessee Titans.