The other Alex Smith

41. Bucs TE: Alex Smith vs. Jerramy Stevens

If I had an editor, he’d tell me that the top 50 position battles is losing steam. And behind pace. And that readers don’t need all three paragraphs on Jeff King. Perhaps two.

With advice in mind, let’s start rolling through these.

The Tampa tight end battle should matter. Jon Gruden loves to pass, and Alex Smith and Jerramy Stevens are both talented pass-catchers. Unfortunately, the Tampa tight end battle hasn’t mattered throughout the Gruden era because the wideouts and running backs get all the love.

Smith has 76 catches in two seasons and has been a Rotoworld favorite because of his smarts and strength combination. 76 catches also compares well to the first two years of many good tight ends. He had a disappointing second season, but its hard to gauge Tampa’s offensive players because of Bruce Gradkowski. Stevens has been a top-25 tight end the last three years in Seattle. He missed the first five games of last season. After more off-field troubles, he may be on his last chance in the NFL. Anthony Becht is also on the roster, but mostly handles blocking duties.

In the end, the Tampa tight end battle may not matter. If both players make the team, they will probably cancel each other out. If Stevens is cut, Smith is worth keeping a close eye on. Damn, we still hit three paragraphs.