TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -Mike Alstott brought the Tampa Bay crowd to its feet one more time.
The former Buccaneers fullback, one of the most popular players in the franchise’s history and its career leader in several categories, was honored with a ceremony at halftime of Tampa Bay’s game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday night.
He sat out all of last season after a neck injury during training camp, then retired in January.
Alstott was the final person to run from the tunnel when the starters were announced, and served as an honorary captain, wrapping Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden in a bear hug shortly before kickoff. The Bucs’ cheerleaders all wore No. 40 jerseys for the game, as did thousands of fans, and two huge flags bearing Alstott’s number swayed at midfield for the halftime ceremony.
ay-by-play voice Gene Deckerhoff said. “And it was a thrill every time I was able to say, ‘Al-stott! Up the gut! Touchdown, Tampa Bay!”’
Alstott was presented with two framed jerseys – including the very one he wore in 1996, in the team’s former creamsicle-orange color scheme that had his name spelled “Alsott” on the back. The other jersey was from his last game with the Buccaneers.
He was also feted with several taped tributes played on the video screen throughout the evening, including ones from former teammates, along with stars like Terrell Davis, Marshall Faulk and Cal Ripken Jr.
“You’re a great player and a great man,” Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said.
Alstott choked up during the ceremony, stopping his speech after only a few seconds because of cheers from the crowd.
“You guys are the best,” Alstott said, after composing himself.
A six-time Pro Bowl selection, Alstott retired this year after a 12-year career.
He was one of the mainstays of the team that delivered the franchise’s only Super Bowl championship, and set career club records for touchdowns (71), TDs rushing (58) and Pro Bowl appearances by an offensive player. In 12 seasons, he rushed for 5,088 yards, plus caught 305 passes for 2,284 yards and 13 TDs.
“I love you and I will miss you,” Alstott said, closing his remarks.
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