Top 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers of All Time: Celebrating the Legends Who Built the Franchise
When you think about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, certain names inevitably stand out, each leaving a significant imprint on the franchise’s history. Imagine exploring a lineup that includes legends like Lee Roy Selmon and Derrick Brooks, whose defensive prowess defined an era, or consider the impact of offensive powerhouses such as Mike Alstott.
Are you curious about who else makes the cut in this illustrious list? If you appreciate a mix of talent, leadership, and unforgettable moments, this journey through the Buccaneers’ greatest is not to be missed. See who stands out in the Top 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers of All Time.
Table of Contents
1. Lee Roy Selmon
- Years Played for team: 1976-1984
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 256 lbs
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Lee Roy Selmon was the first-ever draft pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1976 and quickly became the cornerstone of the team’s defense. Known for his strength, speed, and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Selmon was a dominant force on the field.
His leadership and performance were essential in transforming the Buccaneers from a struggling franchise to a playoff contender. Selmon’s most notable moment came in 1979 when he helped lead the team to its first NFC Central title and playoff appearance.
Even after retiring, his legacy endured, cementing him as an iconic figure in Buccaneers history.
- Accolades:
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995
- Six-time Pro Bowl selection (1979-1984)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1979
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor inductee
- Member of the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
2. Derrick Brooks
- Years Played for the Team: 1995-2008
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 235 lbs
Derrick Brooks was a dominant force in the NFL and played his entire career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his intelligence and impeccable instincts, Brooks was the centerpiece of the Buccaneers’ formidable “Tampa 2” defense.
His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in guiding the Bucs to their first Super Bowl title in 2002. With outstanding speed and tackling ability, Brooks wasn’t only a defensive anchor but also consistently delivered vital plays when needed most.
Revered by fans and peers alike, he set a standard for future generations of linebackers.
- Accolades:
- 11-time Pro Bowl selection
- 9-time First-team All-Pro
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2002)
- Super Bowl XXXVII Champion
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2014)
- NFL All-Decade Team (2000s)
3. Warren Sapp
- Years Played for Team: 1995-2003
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 300 lbs
Warren Sapp was a dominant force on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defensive line, transforming the team into a defensive powerhouse. With his explosive quickness and relentless energy, Sapp consistently disrupted opposing offenses, earning a reputation for his intense competitiveness and fierceness on the field.
Notable for his charisma and colorful personality, Sapp’s leadership played a vital role in the Buccaneers’ success, particularly during their Super Bowl XXXVII victory. His exceptional play style and ability to pressure quarterbacks established him as one of the league’s elite defensive linemen, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
- Accolades:
- 7× Pro Bowl selection
- 4× First-team All-Pro
- Super Bowl XXXVII Champion
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1999)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2013)
4. Ronde Barber
- Years Played for Team: 1997–2012
- Position: Cornerback
- Height/Weight: 5’10”, 184 lbs
Ronde Barber was a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defense for over a decade, known for his durability, intelligence, and playmaking ability. As a versatile cornerback, Barber’s skillset allowed him to excel in zone coverage schemes, and he was especially effective in disrupting passing lanes and creating turnovers.
One of his most iconic moments came in the 2002 NFC Championship Game, where he intercepted Donovan McNabb and returned it for a touchdown, sealing the Buccaneers’ trip to the Super Bowl. Barber’s presence was integral to Tampa Bay’s success during the 2000s, solidifying his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
- Accolades:
- 5× Pro Bowl selection
- 3× First-team All-Pro
- Super Bowl XXXVII champion
- Only player in NFL history with 45 interceptions and 25 sacks
5. John Lynch
- Years Played for Team: 1993-2003
- Position: Safety
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 220 lbs
John Lynch was a transformative figure in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ secondary, known for his hard-hitting style and exceptional football IQ. Over a decade with the Bucs, Lynch became a cornerstone of their formidable defense, contributing to their Super Bowl XXXVII victory.
His physical presence and leadership on the field inspired fear in opponents and confidence in teammates.
Lynch’s ability to read offenses and make critical plays authored many unforgettable moments, emphasizing his role in redefining the safety position. His commitment to excellence set the standard for future Bucs defenders.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl Champion (XXXVII)
- Selected to 5 Pro Bowls with the Buccaneers
- First-Team All-Pro (1999)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee
6. Mike Evans
- Years Played for Team: 2014-present
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 231 lbs
Mike Evans has been a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense since being drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Known for his towering presence and exceptional ball skills, Evans consistently dominates opposing defenses with his ability to make acrobatic catches and break tackles.
In 2020, he played a vital role in helping the Buccaneers secure their second Super Bowl title, establishing himself as a clutch performer in pivotal moments. Evans’ impact on the field is matched by his leadership off it, as he remains a fan favorite and a leader in the locker room.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl Champion (LV)
- 4× Pro Bowl selection
- NFL record: Most consecutive seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards to start a career (10)
- Buccaneers franchise leader in receiving touchdowns
7. Mike Alstott
- Years Played for Team: 1996-2006
- Position: Fullback
- Height/Weight: 6’1″, 248 lbs
Mike Alstott, often referred to as “The A-Train,” was a powerful and versatile presence in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ backfield. His bruising running style and ability to gain tough yards made him a central figure in the team’s offense.
Alstott was renowned for his bulldozer forward rushes, breaking tackles and driving through defenders with determination and grit. Significantly, he played a critical role in the Buccaneers’ successful 2002 campaign, which culminated in winning Super Bowl XXXVII.
Mike’s aggressive play and relentless spirit have left an indelible mark on the Buccaneers’ franchise history.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl Champion (XXXVII)
- 6× Pro Bowl selection (1997–2002)
- 3× All-Pro selection (1997, 1998, 1999)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor inductee
8. Gerald McCoy
- Years Played for Team: 2010-2018
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 300 lbs
Gerald McCoy was a formidable force in the interior defensive line for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his explosive burst off the line, McCoy consistently disrupted opposing offenses with his ability to penetrate the backfield.
His tenure with the Buccaneers was highlighted by his leadership and relentless work ethic, anchoring a defensive unit that often struggled for consistency. McCoy’s agility and strength made him a constant threat in both pass rushing and run-stopping situations.
This site uses affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click at no cost to you.
This site uses affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click at no cost to you.
His impact went beyond the field, as he was also viewed as a mentor and pillar of the Tampa Bay community, embodying the spirit and resilience of the franchise.
- Accolades:
- 6x Pro Bowl selection (2012-2017)
- First-Team All-Pro (2013)
- 54.5 career sacks with the Buccaneers
- Named to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Walter Payton Man of the Year Award nominee (2015)
9. Simeon Rice
- Years Played for Team: 2001-2006
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 268 lbs
Simeon Rice was a dominant force on the defensive line for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, renowned for his speed and tenacity as a pass rusher.
Joining the team in 2001, Rice quickly made an impact with his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His remarkable agility and technique contributed to the Buccaneers’ 2002 Super Bowl victory, where he played a pivotal role in shutting down the Oakland Raiders’ attack.
Known for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Rice’s playing style greatly impacted Tampa Bay’s defense, forming a formidable tandem with teammate Warren Sapp and etching his legacy as one of the franchise’s top defenders.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl Champion (XXXVII)
- 2x Pro Bowl selection with Buccaneers
- 69.5 sacks during his tenure with the team
- Named to NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
10. Tom Brady
Years Played for Team: 2020–2022
Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’4″, 225 lbs
Tom Brady transformed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into instant Super Bowl contenders during his brief yet historic stint with the team. Known for his unparalleled leadership, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to deliver in clutch moments, Brady brought a winning culture to Tampa Bay that culminated in one of the franchise’s most memorable seasons.
In 2020, Brady led the Buccaneers to victory in Super Bowl LV, throwing three touchdown passes and securing his record seventh championship ring.
His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, elevating the entire organization and solidifying Tampa Bay’s place in NFL history. Though his time with the Buccaneers was short, his contributions left an indelible mark, making him one of the greatest players to ever wear the pewter and red.
- Accolades (As a Buccaneer):
- Super Bowl Champion (LV)
- Super Bowl LV MVP
- Pro Bowl Selection (2021)
- NFL Passing Yards Leader (2021)
NFL Passing Touchdowns Leader (2021)
