As the Buccaneers take the field for training camp, they’re already short a player.
Although by announcing his retirement, defensive tackle Eric LeGrand became a “Buc for life.”
LeGrand, who was paralyzed while playing for Bucs coach Greg Schiano at Rutgers, was signed in May as an inspirational gesture. But Thursday, he was officially placed on the reserve-retired list to create a roster spot.
“Making it to the NFL was my dream. But now I want to see my team as strong as possible at the start of Training Camp,” LeGrand said, via the team’s official website. “I’m a Buc for life.”
LeGrand has spent time with the Bucs this summer, giving an emotional speech in the locker room to his teammates. He also plans to come back to Tampa often to continue to work with the team.
But his primary goal will be continuing his rehabilitation in hopes of walking again someday, and inspiring others with spinal injuries.
We wish him well as he pursues both goals.