Top 25 Buccaneers of All-Time: Number 6 – John Lynch

Submitted by Syndicated sources on July 12, 2012 - 1:16pm

6. Safety John Lynch: Played for the Buccaneers from 1993-2003. Considered one of the “Most Feared Tacklers” in league history by NFL Films, Lynch made the Pro Bowl nine times (five with the Bucs). Sixth in organization history in interceptions (23) and fourth in tackles (787), Lynch now makes his living as a color commentator for FOX Sports.

Why is Lynch No. 6:
Lynch was a crucial part of the physical defensive unit that brought the Buccaneers to the NFL forefront in the late 1990's. A destructive hitter with uncanny skills in coverage, Lynch’s skills allowed Tampa Bay's corners to take more chances in coverage. The results were more turnovers, and Tampa's defense was top three in the league over the last three seasons of Lynch’s run with the team.

Lynch’s legacy with the Buccaneers:
Any Bucs fan can remember the day that John Lynch was stunningly released in a salary-reducing move. Lynch went on to four straight Pro Bowl appearances in Denver and many Bucs fans have still not forgiven the front office.

What Lynch can really be remembered for is his part in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Super Bowl campaign of 2002. The physical nature of Lynch and the attitude that he brought to the Tampa defense was contagious. Lynch had the power to lead, and when he spoke, people listened. Same is the case today.

Sure, Lynch has more interceptions than any other safety in team history. Sure, he also has more Pro Bowl trips, more tackles, and more concussions caused. But more than anything else, John Lynch was a team leader.

Be sure to check out other great articles at Sports Media 101.