Gene Deckerhoff to Retire as Tampa Bay Buccaneers Announcer After 2025 Season
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have announced that Gene Deckerhoff will retire as their radio play-by-play announcer at the end of the 2025 season. After 37 seasons with the team, Deckerhoff has become an iconic voice, recognized for his memorable calls during some of the franchise’s most significant moments.
Gene Deckerhoff’s Last Season
Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, Deckerhoff will step away from the microphone. He has been the voice of the Buccaneers since 1989 and will have called over 800 games by the time he retires. His signature call of touchdowns has occurred more than 1,100 times.
Legacy and Recognition
Deckerhoff’s tenure ranks as the third-longest for play-by-play announcers in NFL history, alongside notable names like Merrill Reese from the Philadelphia Eagles and Brad Sham from the Dallas Cowboys. His ability to forge a deep connection with fans has made him a beloved figure in Tampa Bay sports.
- First season with the Buccaneers: 1989
- Total seasons announcing: 37
- Games called: Over 800
- Touchdown calls: More than 1,100
Memorable Highlights
Throughout his career, Deckerhoff has called transformative moments in Buccaneers history. He famously described Derrick Brooks’ game-winning interception in Super Bowl XXXVII, declaring, “There it is! The dagger’s in! We’re going to win the Super Bowl!”
Other highlights include calling Rondé Barber’s iconic 92-yard interception return and Micheal Spurlock’s record-setting kickoff return touchdown in 2007. Each moment is cemented in the memories of Buccaneers fans, thanks to Deckerhoff’s exuberant style.
A Career Beyond the Buccaneers
Beyond his work with the Buccaneers, Deckerhoff was the voice of the Florida State Seminoles from 1979 to 2021. His contributions to sports broadcasting have earned him considerable accolades, including the Florida Sportscaster of the Year award 16 times and induction into several Hall of Fames.
Awards and Honors
- Florida Sports Hall of Fame: 2000
- Florida State University Athletics Hall of Fame: 2002
- Florida Community College Activities Hall of Fame: 2004
- Florida Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame: 2024
- Chris Schenkel Award: 2013
As he approaches retirement, Deckerhoff reflects on his honored career, expressing gratitude to various colleagues, fans, and the Glazer family for their support. His voice has defined countless moments, and as he completes his journey with the Buccaneers, he leaves behind a lasting legacy in sports broadcasting.
As Gene Deckerhoff himself would often say, “Fire them cannons!” His farewell marks the end of an era for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their loyal fanbase.
