Team stands behind embattled Boston

In statement, Bucs support receiver who was charged with driving under the influence.

By STEPHEN F. HOLDER, Times Staff Writer
Published August 26, 2007

MIAMI - David Boston's fate ultimately will be decided by the legal system. But as for his employer, the Bucs appear convinced the receiver, arrested Thursday and charged with driving under the influence, will be exonerated.

Boston, 29, was found asleep at the steering wheel of his Range Rover, its engine running, at a Pinellas Park intersection. Awakened by police, he told them he was on his way from Orlando to a Tampa International Airport hotel and thought he was in Hillsborough County.

After looking into the matter the past few days, the Bucs released a statement from general manager Bruce Allen that showed wholehearted support of the embattled player.

"We have investigated the David Boston situation and feel that we have an understanding of the facts," the statement read. "At this time, we have seen no objective evidence to support the charges that were brought against him."

The statement was quite different from the sort the Bucs typically release when a player has legal trouble. Normally, the position of the franchise would be to support a player but to reserve judgment until all the facts are known. In this case, the Bucs seem unusually confident that charges will be dropped.

After his arrest, Boston took a Breathalyzer test that found no alcohol in his system. But police administered a urine test, presumably to check for illegal substances.

After the game, Boston refused to speak with reporters.

But on Saturday, his troubles seemed nonexistent. He didn't factor prominently in the 31-28 victory, but the one time he did touch the ball, he made something happen. In the second quarter, Boston took a handoff from Michael Pittman on a reverse and dashed 18 yards for a first down.

But as he continues his fight to resurrect his career after nearly two years away from the game, Boston didn't get much playing time. Many of his snaps went to Michael Clayton, though it's possible that was by design to allow the Bucs a chance to see the fourth-year receiver.

Still, Boston, who was cut by the Bucs just before the start of last season as he attempted a comeback from knee surgery, seems to have made enough plays in practices and games to have secured a place on the roster. The Bucs have several receivers jostling for positions, but Boston appears to be among those fighting for a starting job, not just a roster spot.

About the only thing that could derail him is a negative outcome to the DUI investigation.

Stephen F. Holder can be reached at sholder@sptimes.com or 813 226-3377.

[Last modified August 26, 2007, 01:26:08]