Tweet
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Mike Alstott's season, and perhaps his career, is over.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday placed the six-time Pro Bowl fullback on injured reserve with a neck problem. Alstott said it is not related to a career-threatening injury that required surgery in 2003.
"It is what it is. The facts are the facts. I can't put on the helmet and jersey this year," the 33-year-old Alstott, flanked by Bucs general manager Bruce Allen, said during an emotional news conference at the team's headquarters.
"One thing is, you don't mess with the neck. There are always situations where it can be worsened by playing. It is a severe injury and it's a situation you don't mess with."
But Alstott, arguably the most popular player in team history, couldn't bring himself to say that he may have played his last game. He shrugged off several retirement-related questions, saying that's something that will be answered in time. The team's second all-time rusher with 5,088 yards had been preparing for his 12th season, but became concerned when soreness in his neck persisted as training camp progressed at Disney World.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday placed the six-time Pro Bowl fullback on injured reserve with a neck problem. Alstott said it is not related to a career-threatening injury that required surgery in 2003.
"It is what it is. The facts are the facts. I can't put on the helmet and jersey this year," the 33-year-old Alstott, flanked by Bucs general manager Bruce Allen, said during an emotional news conference at the team's headquarters.
"One thing is, you don't mess with the neck. There are always situations where it can be worsened by playing. It is a severe injury and it's a situation you don't mess with."
But Alstott, arguably the most popular player in team history, couldn't bring himself to say that he may have played his last game. He shrugged off several retirement-related questions, saying that's something that will be answered in time. The team's second all-time rusher with 5,088 yards had been preparing for his 12th season, but became concerned when soreness in his neck persisted as training camp progressed at Disney World.
Comment