So sorry to see Mike Alstott go. 

Not because of bullish touchdowns ..

Not because of the way he could close out games running over opposing defenses.

Not because of the way he could bring Raymond James Stadium to its feet.

I'll miss Alstott because he cared.

Alstott cared so much about the game of football.

Alstott cared so much about his team.

Alstott cared so much about the fans of this area.

Alstott cared about our kids.  Did you ever hear a story about Alstott not signing an autograph?

I truly believe Alstott may have been the best overall player on the Bucs roster.  If the NFL had two-way players, I believe Alstott could have played both offense and defense.  Couldn't you see Alstott lining up at linebacker?

By the way, if you ever got to the stadium early enough you could see Alstott throw a football.  He may have had a better arm than any Buccaneer quarterbacks that he played with as a Buccaneer.  And that is not a knock on the quarterbacks.  His favorite game was to nail the crossbar on the goalpost with a pass.  He'd start at the 20 yard line ..and move back.  He'd nail the goalpost before every game.

And to think he was able to stay here for his entire career.

One quick story.  Years ago, my family was on a flight.  My young son just happened to be wearing an Alstott jersey.  Mike just happened to be on that same flight and when he saw my son wearing his jersey, he pulled him over and talked to him for a few minutes.  My son didn't ask for an autograph.  He didn't need one.  That memory will stick with him forever. 

Mike...all the best. 

And we all thank you.

Al Keck