Bucs/NFL

GM lauds Gruden: 'He's a good football coach'

By Rick Stroud
Published November 21, 2006

TAMPA - Facing a possible third losing season in four years, coach Jon Gruden got a vote of confidence from general manager Bruce Allen.

"The NFL coach's life has really changed in the last few years," Allen said while pinch-hitting for Gruden on his weekly radio show. "Within the last two football seasons, we've changed 50 percent of the coaches. The good thing here is we don't need a change. I look at facts. Coach Gruden is one of the three head coaches who has won a division title four of the last six years. Andy Reid and Bill Belichick are the others. He's a good football coach."

BOLDEN HURTING: Cornerback Juran Bolden walked slowly to his locker Monday, trying not to put weight on his injured leg.

Bolden suffered a bruised fibula in Sunday's 20-17 win over the Redskins when he was hit by Bucs defensive end Jovan Haye.

Normally, Bolden would have six days to recover for the next game. But the short week may prevent him from returning for Thursday's game at Dallas.

"It's a really deep bruise on the fibula," Bolden said. "I think it was more of me being more nervous about it (because) I'm of age now and you get a shot like that around that area, I was more concerned about whether it's going to be the way I go out.

"You're never going to be 100 percent during the season. I'm just going to give it my best effort and see what I can do."

Bolden planned to walk on an underwater treadmill Monday.

He has been starting at right cornerback in place of Brian Kelly, who is on injured reserve with a turf toe injury. With Bolden out, the Bucs would turn to Torrie Cox as the starter and Phillip Buchanon as the nickel corner. Rookie Alan Zemaitis, who has been inactive all season, may also have to play.

The Cowboys already provide a tough test with receivers Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn.

"I'm not counting myself out," Bolden said. "It's only Monday. I've got until what? Thursday?"

INJURY UPDATE: Tight end Alex Smith has a high ankle sprain and is expected to be out. Dave Moore and Doug Jolley would split time at tight end. Defensive end Simeon Rice plans to have shoulder surgery and be placed on injured reserve. Defensive tackle Ellis Wyms (ankle) and linebacker Shelton Quarles (knee) are likely questionable.

[Last modified November 21, 2006, 01:50:24]