The familiar voice that has narrated the highs and lows of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for nearly four decades is preparing to sign off. Gene Deckerhoff, the team's radio commentator for the last 37 years, has announced he will retire following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season.
End of an Era for Buccaneers and Seminoles
The 80-year-old broadcaster, a native of Jacksonville, is stepping away from the booth entirely. Deckerhoff was also the long-time voice of Florida State University football, a role he held until the Seminoles' spring game in 2022. His decision marks the close of a monumental chapter for football fans across Florida and beyond.
Reaction from supporters on social media platform X was swift and emotional, with many labelling it the "end of an era." One fan wrote that Deckerhoff had become "the soundtrack of Buccaneers history," while another simply stated, "That's truly the voice of a legend." Several admitted the change would be jarring, with one posting: "Gonna be weird hearing games without his voice."
Tributes from the Top
Buccaneers owner Bryan Glazer, whose family also controls Manchester United, led the official tributes, putting Deckerhoff's immense contribution into perspective. "For 37 seasons, Gene Deckerhoff's voice has set the scene for the most iconic moments in our franchise's history, and his signature calls will forever resonate with Buccaneers fans," Glazer said.
He praised the broadcaster's "passion, authenticity, and unmistakable voice," which he said created cherished memories for "countless generations" of fans. Glazer congratulated Deckerhoff on a "remarkable broadcasting career" and wished him a fulfilling retirement.
A Gracious Farewell After 800 Games
In a team statement, Deckerhoff was gracious in announcing his retirement, thanking fans for listening to him over more than 800 games. "Calling Buccaneers games has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career," he said.
He expressed gratitude to the Glazer family, his wife Ann, and his broadcast partners, singling out former Buccaneers tight end Dave Moore, who has been beside him in the booth for the past 19 years. "I will miss doing what I love, but now is the right time to step away," Deckerhoff concluded.
Deckerhoff, famed for his exuberant "touchdown Tampa Bay!" calls, could call his final game in the Buccaneers' 2025 season finale against the Carolina Panthers. The outcome of that match will determine whether Tampa Bay wins the NFC South and advances to the playoffs or sees its season end.
