We've learned WR Michael Clayton's knee sprain will sideline him for a week or two.

The exact nature of the injury isn't yet clear, but it will almost certainly cause him to miss Sunday's trip to Charlotte where the Bucs will take on the Panthers. Clayton was injured on the first offensive play of the game last Sunday at Atlanta. The fact that he has not been placed on injured reserve is a good indication that the timetable is indeed short. Look for Maurice Stovall to start and see extended action while Clayton is out.

Also today, the Bucs signed punter Sam Paulescu as a replacement for Dirk Johnson. Paulescu, who will wear jersey number 2, was released by the Washington Redskins in November after appearing in one game this season. He has appeared in 12 career games with Denver, Dallas and Washington, totaling 61 punts for 2,584 yards (42.4 avg.) with a long of 70 and 15 punts placed inside the 20-yard line.

Johnson was placed on IR on Monday after suffering a hamstring injury against the Falcons.