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A-Train's Final Stop

Tribune photo by CLIFF McBRIDE

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mike Alstott was honored at halftime of the Seattle Seahawks game at Raymond James Stadium

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By ANWAR S. RICHARDSON

arichardson@tampatrib.com

Published: October 20, 2008

TAMPA - Former Tampa Bay fullback Mike Alstott finally received a sensational sendoff that paralleled his career.

Alstott retired last year due to a severe neck injury, and after a news conference, he had a private retirement party.

The Bucs decided to honor Alstott, arguably its most beloved player, during its game against Seattle on Sunday night. Alstott retired as Tampa Bay's all-time touchdown leader and No. 2 rusher.

"To be able to come out here and thank the fans, it was a closure," Alstott said.

Tampa Bay had video tributes through the evening from players and celebrities.

During halftime, highlights of Alstott's career were played before Bucs executive vice president Bryan Glazer spoke. Glazer presented Alstott with two framed jerseys - his original orange Bucs jersey, which was spelled incorrectly (Alsott), and the last jersey he played in. Afterward, Alstott thanked his fans and family.

"The fans have embraced with such support and love and it's unbelievable feeling to have 60,000-plus to go out there and do that," Alstott said. "I loved playing for them. It was an incredible feeling running out of that tunnel. It helped me to be a better player, and the reason I came to work every Sunday is to win in front of our fans because they deserved it."

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