The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have one retired jersey: Lee Roy Selmon’s No. 63. Later this year, they’ll double that number.
During a press conference to announce that soon-to-be Hall of Fame defensive tackle Warren Sapp will join the team’s ring of honor during the 2013 season, team co-chairman Bryan Glazer said that Sapp’s No. 99 will be retired.
The Ring of Honor induction ceremony will occur at halftime of the team’s November 11 Monday night game against the Dolphins.
At the event, which was attended by multiple former teammates and coach Tony Dungy, Sapp thanked “everyone who put up with his big mouth,” according to Stephen F. Holder of the Tampa Bay Times.
The flash of humility and self-awareness shows that Sapp, who is capable of being loud and brash and downright hostile, has a different side that is far more likeable. Hopefully the accolades and praise will allow that side to finally win.