In just a few weeks, a player from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will score the last touchdown of the 2025 season. It’ll be a bittersweet moment for fans, marking the end of an era. For nearly 40 years, Gene Deckerhoff’s voice has been the soundtrack of Buccaneers football.
On Wednesday, the team announced that Deckerhoff will retire after this season, wrapping up 37 seasons as the Buccaneers’ radio announcer. He’ll have called over 800 games and celebrated more than 1,100 touchdowns. His iconic calls have become a cherished part of Buccaneers history.
Buccaneers Owner Bryan Glazer praised Deckerhoff, saying, “His passion and unmistakable voice have created memories for countless generations.” Deckerhoff’s connection with fans is unique. His tenure is the third-longest in NFL history, behind Merrill Reese of the Eagles and Brad Sham of the Cowboys. He’s been there for every high and low faced by the franchise since he joined in 1989, including both Super Bowl victories.
Deckerhoff reflected on his time with the team: “Calling Buccaneers games has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I’ve built meaningful relationships with players, coaches, and fans around the world.” His gratitude extends to the Glazer family and his long-time broadcast partner, Dave Moore.
Many of Deckerhoff’s calls have become legendary. For instance, when Derrick Brooks sealed the Super Bowl XXXVII win, Deckerhoff shouted, “There it is! The dagger’s in!” That unforgettable moment had fans leaping from their seats. He also passionately cheered on Joe Jurevicius during a pivotal play in 2002, saying, “You go, Joe!”
His most iconic moment might be Rondé Barber’s 92-yard interception return for a touchdown, punctuated by the phrase, “Gone! Coast to Coast, Rondé Barber!” When Micheal Spurlock made history with the first kickoff return for a touchdown, Deckerhoff simply exclaimed, “Run, Micheal, run!”
But Deckerhoff’s influence goes beyond the Buccaneers. He was the voice of the Florida State Seminoles from 1979 until 2021 and played a vital role in the local sports community. His accolades include 16 Florida Sportscaster of the Year awards and induction into multiple sports halls of fame. In 2013, he received the prestigious Chris Schenkel Award for excellence in broadcasting.
As the 2025 season wraps up, so does a remarkable broadcasting journey. Gene Deckerhoff will be missed, but his legacy will live on. “Fire them cannons!” will forever echo in the hearts of Buccaneers fans.
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