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Coyer Feels Reborn As Bucs Assistant

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 6, 2007

TAMPA - At the tender age of 64, Larry Coyer feels born again.

Eleven months after he was fired by the Broncos, Tampa Bay's crusty defensive line coach can't wait to come to work with a group of men who are drawing motivation from Denver's former defensive coordinator.

"I feel rejuvenated around here, but let's be honest - these guys make my day," Coyer said after Wednesday's practice. "It's great to walk into this building and work with guys who want to win. I'm feeling younger just being around 'em and if I get my hip fixed, I'll really be in great shape."

The ax fell on Coyer after the 2006 season when the Broncos suffered a second-half collapse and Coach Mike Shanahan needed a scapegoat. Coyer lasted only a week on the open market before the Bucs hired him to replace Jethro Franklin, who is now with Sunday's opponent, the Houston Texans.

"The man is straight to the point and no-nonsense," said Bucs DE Greg Spires. "Coach Coyer is very detailed. He'll go over something 10 times, which is good."

That attention to detail has impressed DE Kevin Carter, who has learned to appreciate Coyer's methodical approach.

"His preparation is great," Carter said, "and as a former coordinator, he knows every facet of what the other team is going to do. He's full of information and we have to keep everyone tuned in because the man has a wealth of knowledge. Most of all, he works his butt off. He's a little old man, he's achieved so much, and to see him still be so professional day in and day out is inspiring to the rest of us."

With the 8-4 Bucs poised to wrap up the NFC South, Coyer knows he made the right move relocating to Tampa.

"The transition to a new job can be difficult, but these guys have made it so easy for me," he said. "All I can say is they energize me."

INJURY UPDATE: Bucs FB B.J. Askew didn't practice Wednesday due to a sore ankle while Carter (shoulder), Spires (calf), WR Ike Hilliard (knee), RB Michael Pittman (ankle) and QB Jeff Garcia (back) were limited.

Houston QB Matt Schaub dislocated his left shoulder against Tennessee last week and RB Ron Dayne (ankle) did not participate in practice.

With Schaub expected to miss several weeks, Sage Rosenfels is likely to make his fourth NFL start. Rosenfels, 29, has been particularly effective in the fourth quarter this season.

"I think Sage is a really nice guy," said Carter, who played with Rosenfels on the 2005 Dolphins. "He's a really good friend and I think he's very intelligent. He's a talented young quarterback who moves around well. The only thing Sage lacks is experience."

Ira Kaufman

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