Bucs nearly released Figurs following Jets game

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DECEMBER 22, 2009

Yamon Figurs did nothing to help his cause for remaining with the Bucs two weeks ago against the New York Jets.

Filling in for kick returner Clifton Smith, who was placed on injured reserve after suffering his second concussion, Figurs returned five kickoffs for 105 yards, a 21-yard average, in a 26-6 loss to the Jets . He also returned two punts for 21 yards.

Those numbers are well below what the Bucs felt they should've gotten out of their return game that day. In fact, the Bucs considered releasing Figurs last week but wasn't sure of the status of rookie WR/KR Sammie Stroughter.

Ironically, Stroughter suffered a broken foot against the Seahawks Sunday and was also placed on I.R. But special teams coach Richard Bisaccia feels more comfortable with Michael Spurlock, who was signed to replace Figurs.

Spurlock, 26, returned the first kickoff for a touchdown in franchise history on Dec. 16, 2007 against the Atlanta Falcons. He also would contribute more as a receiver than Figurs.

Posted by at 5:42:09 pm on December 22, 2009 | Permalink | Comments | | Edit Post

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