Big Hearts but No Canton: Five Bucs You Remember That Won't Make It

There are many players on many teams in the National Football League that do so much but receive so little support and recognition. Other players get the attention for a single season, but are then replaced and relegated to becoming a NFL analyst on ESPN if they are lucky.

There were five players on the Bucs old and current team that came to mind when thinking of these type of players. These five players will most certainly miss out on the Hall of Fame but gave the Tampa Bay fans something to cheer and be proud of during their great moments. The five that came to mind were:

Dexter Jackson (SS):

The Bucs fearless safety, who lined up with that great defense of old known down in Tampa Bay. Jackson was among greats such as Sapp, Lynch, Brooks, all of whom will be headed to the Hall of Fame. Dexter Jackson was actually the Super Bowl MVP in 2005 when the Buccaneers won the Championship.

Jackson recorded two interceptions in helping to cement the victory for the Bucs. He will always be remember for that MVP but never did enough in the season to be a standout or superstar. Jackson finished his career with the Bucs totalling eight interceptions and 3.5 sacks in six seasons with the Bucs.

Jameel Cook (FB):

While Mike Alstott received all the glory and touchdown success, there was one main person who did not get a lot of mention. Jameel Cook was part of the Alstott, Warrick Dunn backfield when the Bucs were not afraid to run the ball hard up the middle. Cook who is a great Fullback in his time with the Bucs and aided that run game very well.

As a lead blocker Cook lead Alstott and Dunn to many productive seasons on the ground in Tampa Bay. The Bucs liked Cook so much he has been added to the roster and will continue to be a big part in 2009. His numbers totalled 20 catches for 120 yards and one touchdown in his best year with Tampa Bay.

Shaun King (QB):

Shaun King had one of the worst times in the NFL getting his chances and keeping them. He started all 16 games in 2000 and led the Bucs to a 10-6 record. King was a rushing quarterback and added a great dimension to the already potent run attack. King had five TD rushing and 18 TD through the air in Tampa that year.

He led the team to the playoffs where the Bucs fell just short on a dropped ball by Keenen McCardell in the opening playoff game. King was always said to have small hands and not tall enough to be a professional QB, but he always got the fans going with his feet and spirit on the field. King should have been given more opportunities but now is working with ESPN as an analyst.

Martin Gramatica (K):

Warren Sapp said of Gramatica in 2002, "Gramatica is the best kicker in this league, if I'm going to battle, I'm going with Marti."

The resounding fan and player favorite for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was this man. When he kicked everyone in the stadium would wait in anticipation of his beloved celebrations and flamboyant style. Gramatica may not have had the best numbers statistically, but he gave the Bucs fans hope and joy when he stepped to the ball.

Gramatica made many game winners and celebrated with his leaping kick, which ultimately injured him and hindered him the rest of his career. Truly a lasting player in all Bucs fans minds.

Josh Bidwell (P):

Josh Bidwell has been a vital part of the Buccaneers franchise since joining the team in 2004. He is said to be one of the most efficient kickers in the NFL by his fellow players and coaches. Bidwell is a true veteran of the Bucs after being around for five seasons and going on his 10th season in the league.

Bidwell provides a service in punting that is absolutely crucial to success in the National Football League. Field position can mean the difference in the football game, and is referenced every game at one point or another.

Bidwell is able to stand in his own end zone and not panic because of his experience, as well as pin teams deep so the Bucs defense can go to work. Bidwell, as well as other punters in the league, should be applauded and given more credit than they receive.

It is almost unheard of to be a punter and make it in the Hall of Fame, but without punters, teams would lose more often than they would win. Bidwell has recorded 182 successful punts inside the opposing teams 20 yard line since joining the Bucs in 2004.

Special Teams, not defense, wins Championships.

These five players represent a diverse group at many key positions that sometimes can go unnoticed at times. The kickers hardly ever get awarded the honor of the Hall of Fame. Full backs also have it tough, and quarterbacks have trouble gaining and keeping their starting roles.

All in all these players were great for the Bucs in their play as well as the memories they left with the fans, but none of these guys will be giving a speech at Canton anytime soon.