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Bucs Place RB Graham, LB Hayes On Injured Reserve

Tribune photo by JAY CONNER

Bucs running back Earnest Graham sits on the field after injuring his ankle on his first carry Sunday against the Vikings.

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By ROY CUMMINGS | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 19, 2008

It's official. Earnest Graham's season is over. The Bucs placed their top running back on the injured reserve list on Wednesday, along with linebacker and special teams player Geno Hayes.

The Bucs signed RB Noah Herron and LB Matt McCoy to fill the roster spots vacated by Graham and Hayes.

Graham started all 10 games this season and leads the Bucs with 563 yards rushing on 132 attempts (4.3 avg.) and four touchdowns. He also had 23 receptions for 174 yards. He left Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings after the second play with an ankle injury.

On Monday, Bucs head coach Jon Gruden said the injury appeared serious but did not go into specifics, except to say that Graham probably would not play again this season. Today's move confirmed that.

Hayes, a sixth-round pick in the 2008 draft, has played in nine games this season and has eight tackles on defense. He left the Vikings game with a knee injury.

Hayes is tied for fourth on the team with seven special teams tackles. He also has one blocked punt, which he returned for his first career touchdown against Carolina.

In his fourth NFL season, former Packers running back Herron has 273 career rushing yards on 85 carries with three touchdowns. He also has 29 receptions for 211 yards and two TDs.

McCoy played in three games for the Buccaneers this season before being released on Oct. 18 after being arrested on a DUI charge.

For his career, McCoy has 86 tackles and three fumble recoveries. He also has 40 career special teams tackles.

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