Galloway Out, Clayton to Start in Chicago

This Sunday in Chicago, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Michael Clayton will get his chance. With incumbent starter Joey Galloway doubtful to play with a foot sprain he picked up against Atlanta, Clayton has been promoted to flanker, with Antonio Bryant moving to split end.

In an unlikely twist, Clayton will find himself in the huddle with a guy he had his main success with, quarterback Brian Griese. In 2004, Griese connected with Clayton for 80 passes for 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns. Since Griese left at the end of the 2005 season, Clayton has never regained his rookie form, with only 88 receptions in the last three seasons. His last touchdown was in 2006. However, Clayton is not looking at the negatives.

“ I've been told I will be starting, so we'll see what happens," Clayton said.
"This is one I've been waiting for. It's a tremendous opportunity. I feel real comfortable with Brian Griese being back there and what we can do as an offense." Clayton was the first player drafted by General Manager Bruce Allen, 15th overall in the 2004 draft.

 This season he is in his contract year, has already hinted that he wants to play or will test the free agency market in the off-season. The Bucs, however, need to see the kind of production from Clayton that has been sorely lacking from the receivers this season. Ike Hilliard is 32 years old and is the Bucs leading receiver this year with 10 receptions for 86 yards and one score.

Sunday at Soldier Field may go a long way in determining not just Clayton's season, but also his future. "We've been through this for a while now," Coach Jon Gruden said. "Some guys are going to have to step up...Michael Clayton I'm sure will get an opportunity to slam down the door and re-arrive here. I think he's worked his butt off, and I'm looking forward to seeing him take advantage of this chance."

At 25, Clayton is a at pivotal point in his fifth year in the NFL. How pivotal will be up to him on Sunday against a Chicago Bears defense that currently ranks 6th against the pass and 10th in points allowed. But Clayton is ready. "I've been hungry, man. I've been hungry for five years.

Nothing has changed, my mentality hasn't changed. Opportunity has changed, and I'm looking forward to taking advantage of it."