Tampa Bay Buccaneers DT Brian Price Will Play in Week 1 Despite Hamstring Injury

After missing one preseason game and a handful of practices with a hamstring injury, second-round draft pick Brian Price will see the field in the Buccaneers’ season opener against the Browns on Sunday.

"He's been well," said head coach Raheem Morris. "He’s been at practice full-time, full-go, and full-bore, so we have to let him get out there a little bit and play himself into his best shape for where he can be and how great he can be...he's been awesome since he has been back.”

Price was the second defensive tackle taken by the Buccaneers in April’s draft, behind third overall pick Gerald McCoy, who is also poised for meaningful action.

“I think the preseason went well,” said McCoy. “I learned a lot in the few snaps that I played. You see the change in the game, just from being in camp practices to the actual preseason games, you see a big difference, so I think I learned a lot. Not necessarily learned everything I need to know, but enough to be ready for Week 1.”

McCoy and Price were drafted to bolster a defensive unit that ranked dead-last against the run in 2009, allowing 158.2 yards per game. They also finished 27th in the league in total defense, allowing 365.6 yards per game.

Price spoke about his and McCoy’s roles in sparking the struggling defense after Thursday’s practice.

“The sky’s the limit,” said Price. “It’s pretty fun playing the zero technique nose guard position, because the quarterback is right there. I like the challenge on myself trying to split the double-team. And Gerald McCoy, he’s a great athlete, so I think we can be a great tandem one day.”

Defensive line coach Todd Wash and Morris implemented a 3-4 defense this offseason, and Price and McCoy’s ability to handle the zero technique will play a vital role in the scheme’s success.

The Buccaneers face former division foe Jake Delhomme and the Browns Sunday at 1 p.m. EST.

This article can also be found at www.footballnewsnow.com.