 The Bucs started off the season 0–3, with QB Chris Simms throwing only 1 touchdown to 7 interceptions.In the third game of the season, a last-minute loss to the Carolina Panthers, Simms's spleen was ruptured, and he was placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season.After their bye week, the Bucs elected to start rookie quarterback Bruce Gradkowski, a 6th-round pick from Toledo.