Bucs' Simms Has Surgery To Remove Ruptured Spleen

TAMPA, Sept. 24 -- Chris Simms's season is probably over. His career as an NFL quarterback may be in jeopardy.

Simms, who was named the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starting quarterback a few months before the season, had his spleen removed during an emergency operation following Sunday's 26-24 loss to the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. He is expected to be hospitalized for several days.

Simms was hurt during the first half of the game, one in which he was hit hard on several occasions, including while running for a touchdown in the third quarter. Carolina defensive tackle Kris Jenkins delivered a big hit in the first half.

"He underwent a splenectomy this evening and is in stable condition," team doctor Joe Diaco said in a statement. "Chris is doing well and we anticipate a full recovery."

Simms left the game briefly near the end of the third quarter with what the Bucs described as cramps, but it later was revealed he also had suffered from bruised ribs and dehydration during the game.

Simms was loaded into an ambulance immediately after the game and he was admitted to St. Joseph's Hospital. His condition was listed as stable following the operation, Bucs officials said.

Other than to confirm his status, Bucs officials did not comment on Simms following his surgery. Coach Jon Gruden was asked about Simms during his postgame news conference, and said: "He played tough and he showed a lot of grit. He really did. It is a credit to him. He made some big plays when we needed him. . . . He is hurting right now, there is no question. . . . He is a very sore and tired man right now, and I am proud of how he hung in there against a very good defense."

Wide receiver Michael Clayton said Simms's teammates noticed early in the game that something was wrong. "He was in the huddle at times muffling over his words and taking deep breaths in between calling plays because he couldn't talk," he said. "He was definitely dazed a little bit."

Simms dropped to one knee on the field near the end of the third quarter and was walked into the locker room by Diaco. Simms was evaluated and went back into the game. Rookie Bruce Gradkowski relieved Simms for two plays.

The spleen is located in the upper left part of the abdomen, behind the stomach and below the diaphragm. It plays a critical role in fighting off infection.

The normal recovery time is said to be at least six weeks, and it's not unusual for athletes to undergo the operation and return to action.

Simms, a third-round draft pick in 2003, is in his fourth pro season. He became the Bucs' starter in the seventh game last year.

How the Bucs will replace Simms is unknown. Gradkowski likely will take over. The Bucs have two weeks before their next game and time to consider other options.