Today is Day 3 of the 12 Days of BucMas! The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Simeon Rice in free agency in 2001. Little did they know he would end his career with the second most sacks in franchise history. 

A name heard plenty nowadays, Simeon Rice was a force in Tampa Bay. Signed in 2001, he was a crucial member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense through 2006. 2002 was a memorable year for all of us fans, but also for Rice. His best year in Tampa, he totaled 15.5 sacks in 2002.  Also in 2002, in the biggest game of his career, he tallied two sacks on the way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers super bowl win. While he is most remembered for his super bowl win, in the lean years following the big game, his production didn’t drop off. In the 3 years following the super bowl run, Rice tallied 15, 12 and 14 sacks. During his five year stint with the Buccaneers, he totaled 69.5 sacks. He was the last Buccaneer, before Jason Pierre-Paul, to have a double-digit sack season. 

Ring of Honor?

The next step to honor the illustrious career of Rice, is the Ring of honor. The induction of Tony Dungy was very well deserved, but Simeon Rice is also a worthy candidate. The only other person I can see edging him out is Ronde Barber. Set aside Ring of Honor, Simeon Rice should be getting looked at for the pro football hall of fame. With 122 career sacks he ranks 20th all time in career sacks.  Yes, Simeon Rice made a huge difference for this organization. Bucs fans everywhere know and respect his dedication to the Bucs. Hopefully, in the near future the Bucs can draft an edge rusher who has the same influence as Rice did. Or, pick him up at the age of 44. Your call, Jason Licht.