Tommy Streeter keeps his head, turns others at the same time

TAMPA | Following a full 2½-hour practice Wednesday, Tampa Bay Bucs receiver Tommy Streeter went over to sign autographs for the fans like most players do. Unlike most players, who generally leave after five or 10 minutes, Streeter stayed and continued to sign. When he finished with one section, he would move down to another. It was 30 minutes later and he was one of a handful of Buc players still signing autographs.

It wasn't that the former University of Miami standout felt compelled to stay. He was enjoying himself.

"I take pride in things like that, interacting with the fans," Streeter said. You always have to count your blessings. You could be on the other side when they don't want your autographs. I cherish moments like this. It means a lot to me."

What also means a lot to Streeter is having a chance to make this team.

The 2012 sixth-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens, Streeter has been trying to stand out in what is a very tough competition during this Buccaneers training camp.

Three players are a virtual lock to make the squad — Vincent Jackson and rookies Mike Evans and Robert Herron. That would leave two, maybe three spots for nine receivers.

Streeter, who is tall (6-foot-5), lean (215) and can fly, is trying to stay in the moment and look at the heavy odds weighing against him.

"My mindset is basically to focus on myself," Streeter said. "It's easy to look around and hear coach say we're going to keep X-amount of receivers in the room and start counting: wondering, 'where do I fit in?' Those things are distractions. You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable; trusting in the process and understanding there's going to be ups and downs but always work on your craft day in and day out. Those tough times and tough moments are what define you."

The 24-year-old Streeter has had tough times in his professional life.

First, he was drafted much lower than he anticipated. Afterward, he suffered a foot injury during training camp and was placed on injured reserve, missing the entire season.

He didn't make the squad in 2013 and was working out until being signed to the Bucs' practice squad for the last two weeks of the season.

"It was tough, but I have this mindset that nothing in life happens to you but happens for you," he said. "I look at things different. I take the positive away from everything. Look at everything I learned when I was hurt. Us as people, we have all the expectations and all these things we want to accomplish within ourselves but we have to trust in God's plan."

It must be rubbing off as he has been making plays in practice. Will it be enough? Time will tell.

"For receivers, if you're any good, you get a chance," coach Lovie Smith said. "Odds are, you're going to get balls thrown your way. He has made a few plays. We have seen definite improvement in him."


(theledger.com)