Bucs OC Tedford to resume duties next week

Barring setback, Jeff Tedford could be calling plays for the Bucs by Week 4. (USATSI)

The Buccaneers are hopeful Jeff Tedford will return to full play-calling duties in Week 4, according to league sources.

Tedford, Tampa Bay's new offensive coordinator, has yet to call a full game and partake in all normal game-day duties as he recovers from a medical procedure he underwent six days before the start of the regular season. He will not have his full role Thursday night, either, but is on track for a full return next week barring any unforeseen setbacks.

The Bucs' offense has struggled through two losses thus far and Tedford has been able to do more each week but is still on the mend. He and quarterback Josh McCown were developing a strong bond in the offseason and given McCown's particular individual role in devising and implementing the system, the team is obviously excited to have him back in a full capacity soon.

NFL Hot News

Jets hopeful WR Eric Decker will play in Week 3



New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker appears optimistic about his ability to play Monday night against the Bears despite a hamstring injury. "Well, it's one day, my mentality is to take it one day at a time," Decker said. "I would love to play, so I am just making sure that we take the right steps. Don't do too much, but do enough to feel it out and make a decision once that day rolls around."When discussing Decker and CB Dee Milliner, head coach Rex Ryan seemed to convey optimism on their statuses. "Both of those guys, we will see how they progress," Ryan said. "They were not practicing [Wednesday], but we will see how they do. We're confident that they will be ready. We know that they are going to work to get out there. I'm confident, we'll see how it goes during the week, but I should say I guess I'm hopeful that they will play."Decker has nine catches for 137 yards through the first two weeks and caught his first touchdown in Week 2 versus Green Bay.



Decker was drafted by most fantasy players this summer as a WR3 and continues to be rated as such. With the right matchup, he could be a reach WR2. This week could be one of those games. The Bears' defense has been good, but with the loss of cornerback Charles Tillman, their secondary will be a little more susceptible than usual.Decker's participation in practice Friday and Saturday will be the best indicator of whether he will play on Monday night. If he's not a full participant later in the week, he'll probably be considered a game-time decision, and owners should find another option.