Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Griffin gives Bruce Arians needed assurance

Ryan Griffin gives the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and head coach Bruce Arians assurance in light of the injury to Blaine Gabbert

Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert suffered a shoulder injury against Cleveland. Gabbert was projected to be the backup quarterback to Jameis Winston heading into the regular season. However, Ryan Griffin gives Bruce Arians assurance that they have a quality backup to Winston.

Griffin has caught the attention from Arians with his play in the preseason, especially late in the game.

Scott Smith of Buccaneers.com quoted Arians on Griffin’s performance.

"“Griff has gotten better and better,” said Arians. “And I don’t care who you’re playing with – when you do the things he’s done in two-minute [drives], it’s noteworthy.”"

Griffin played collegiately at Tulane. He signed with New Orleans as an undrafted rookie in 2013. The Buccaneers acquired him in 2015, initially, where he has struggled to stay on the roster. He has not given up in his quest to play in the NFL.

There are no career passing statistics for Griffin at Pro Football Reference. There is absolutely nothing that gives any indication that any team covets his ability. However, if you look deep inside, there is that burning passion to play the game.

Griffin stands 6-5, weighing 210 pounds. His physical appearance matches the classic pocket passer. He has just needed the opportunity to show Tampa Bay his heart and soul. How has he fared? Very positively, if you ask Arians. How about statistically? He leads the NFL in passing yards with 652 through three preseason games.

In fact, he has completed 51 of 81 passes for 652 yards with three touchdowns and zero interceptions. He has a QB rating of 100.4. Remember, he is not playing with the Tampa Bay starters.

The Buccaneers should have the positive assurance that Griffin is their backup quarterback. Unless they acquire another quarterback after training camp cuts, Arians should be satisfied with his quarterback situation. Even with Gabbert out, Griffin is offering a reason to be confident in the Bucs backups.