A Conversation With Maurice Stovall The Bucs' biggest offseason need was to add offensive playmakers, but after passing on most receivers during free agency, it became apparent they felt a player currently on their roster could solve their dilemma. Maurice Stovall is one player expected to improve Tampa Bay's offensive productivity this season. A third-round pick in 2006, Stovall has 17 receptions for 188 yards and one touchdown in two seasons. He established himself as a special teams standout with 18 tackles, plus deflected a punt, last season. Stovall broke his right arm against San Francisco and was placed on injured reserve late last season and he missed the season finale and playoff game. He spent time talking about his physical and mental status during last week's organized team activity workout. How are you doing health wise? I'm just taking it day to day. I'm limited in practice in what I'm able to do. I'm trying to follow the schedule the trainers have me on. I can do certain things in the weight room. I can't lift a lot of weights, but I can definitely feel it getting stronger every week. When do doctors say you will be back at 100 percent? They really didn't give me a timetable. I just kind of play it by ear each week. I do check up with doctors and surgeons to get x-rays, and they just go off that to see how the healing process is going and they tell me what I am able and not able to do. What can you do right now? I'm not allowed to go against defensive backs. I'm allowed to run routes. I can do wide receiver drills with Coach Richard Mann. I'm not allowed to go against anyone physically, but I am allowed to catch balls and run routes. Since Tampa Bay didn't sign a big-name receiver in free agency, how much do you need to step up this year? I always see myself as a guy who has the step up in any aspect, whether it's on special teams, kickoff, kickoff return, punt return or our offense in general. Anytime you're out there in the field, there is a chance for you to make a play and make a difference. Why haven't the other receivers on this team been able to contribute on Joey Galloway's level? I don't have that answer. I can only control what I do. When I am on the field, I can only control what I do and put it on tape. When I am on offense, just play my role no matter what it is, whether it's catching or blocking or running any route. When I'm on special teams, it's the same thing. Anytime you are on the field, you have an opportunity to contribute and you have to make the most of the situation. Do you think you've had a successful NFL career or are you disappointed? I think as a player, I always have high expectations for myself, whether it's on special teams or offense. I want to be the greatest wide receiver to ever play in the NFL. On special teams, I want to be the greatest gunner to ever play in the NFL. You need to always have high goals and expectations for yourself, whether you reach them or not. You've established yourself on special teams, so isn't the next step to establish yourself as a receiver? A receiver and a better special teams player and as a leader on the team. Anwar Richardson, The Tampa Tribune 28 May 2008