39 Days: Stocker Emerges as Top BlockerJustin Pawlowski @CommishOnlineJul 07, 2015
As we countdown the days until the Bucs' 1st preseason game, we discuss a different Bucs player at length.I get it. Talking about a blocking tight end isn't the most exciting topic as we are now less than 40 days until the Bucs' first preseason game. However, Luke Stocker was drafted to be a big time blocking tight end, and I feel he became that in 2014.As a result of his play in 2014, Stocker was rewarded with a new 3-year contract. Stocker's contract will see him make $1.5 million in 2015, $1.6 million in 2016, and $1.7 million in 2017.It was just about a year ago when Stocker's name was being mentioned as one of the more expendable players on the Bucs' roster. He had dealt with numerous injuries that stunted his growth as a player through his first few seasons. In 2014, Stocker stayed healthy and made the most of his opportunity.Stocker became the Bucs' most reliable blocking tight end during the preseason of 2014, but really shine during the regular season. Playing along an offensive line that was among the worst offensive lines in the NFL last season, an argument could be made that Stocker was the Bucs' best blocker on the team last season.While he is known for his play as a tight end, Stocker also helped fill the void at full back when Bucs starting full back Jorvorskie Lane went down with a season-ending injury.Stocker's versatility, emergence as a top blocker, and new contract have him set for a nice role in the new Bucs' offense in 2015 and beyond.link
