*** DOLPHINS NEWS ***

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Apr 11, 1996: -- Dolphins Sign Backup QB Mike Buck --

The Dolphins announced today that they have signed free agent quarterback Mike Buck, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals. Terms were undisclosed.

Last year, Buck was the backup for Dave Krieg and completed 20 of 32 passes for 271 yards, 1 touchdown and no interceptions. He was also sacked twice. His longest completion in 1995 was 28 yards, and he averged 8.5 yards per passing attempt.

For the 6-3, 227lb QB, this works out to a passer rating of 99.9 for the 1995 season. Before he played with the Cards, he spent 4 years with the Saints as a backup.

His career passing numbers show him completing 54 passes in 92 attempts for 790 yards with 5 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. This works out to a career passing rating of 86.8.

My Comments:

Buck has been around awhile, like McGuire, but has never been able to break the starting lineup on the Saints or the Cards. What little I know about him seems to indicate that he's a steady, if unspectacular performer without a big arm.

However, his statistics are pretty good and as long as he doesn't make mistakes, he could be a competent backup.

I can think of 2 reasons that the Dolphins might sign Buck: either they want to get rid of McGuire or they don't think they'll be able to sign Kosar after all. My guess would be that they want to let McGuie and his $600K salary go, but the negotiations with Bernie may have bogged down.

Related Links:

Sportsline USA:

Dolphins Sign Free Agent Qb Mike Buck

ESPN:

Roundup: Reich joins Jets QB squadron