Bucs Sign B.J Askew

Bucs Sign Free Agent Fullback B.J. Askew
By Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. -- Free-agent fullback B.J. Askew signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.

Askew, drafted by the Jets in the third round out of Michigan in 2003, has played in 55 games in his four NFL seasons, all with New York. In 2004, he and Jerald Sowell were the lead blockers for running back Curtis Martin, who led the league with 1,697 yards rushing.

Askew has 102 yards rushing on 27 carries and 12 catches for 73 yards in four seasons while being used mainly as a blocker. He was also a standout on special teams.

Askew recently told The Associated Press that he wanted a chance to switch roles on the field, from fullback to halfback -- something he did while rushing for 1,580 yards and 17 touchdowns in college at Michigan. He also caught 83 passes for 777 yards and six TDs with the Wolverines.

"B.J. enjoyed his time with the Jets, but he wanted an opportunity to utilize all of his talents," said Askew's agent, Scott Smith. "He is much more than a traditional blocking fullback, and now he will be playing in a system that has produced one of the most prolific power backs in history in Mike Alstott."