Gene Deckerhoff Announces Retirement After 37 Seasons with the Buccaneers
Gene Deckerhoff, the iconic voice of the Buccaneers, has reflected on an impressive career as the team’s radio play-by-play announcer spanning 37 seasons.
As confirmed by the Buccaneers, Deckerhoff, who started with the NFL back in 1989, will retire at the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, according to a press release issued on Wednesday.
He ranks as the third longest-serving play-by-play announcer in the NFL, behind Merrill Reese of the Eagles and Brad Sham of the Cowboys.
“For 37 seasons, Gene Deckerhoff’s voice has orchestrated some of the most iconic moments in franchise history. His signature calls will forever resonate in the hearts of Buccaneers fans,” remarked Brian Grazer, owner and co-chairman of the Buccaneers.
Grazer continued, emphasizing how Deckerhoff’s “passion, integrity, and unmistakable voice” have created memories cherished by countless Buccaneers fans over generations. As Deckerhoff approaches this significant transition, he is wished well for a fulfilling retirement after a remarkable broadcasting journey.
Throughout his career, Deckerhoff has called more than 750 games, covering preseason, regular season, and playoffs—accounting for more than three-quarters of all games in the franchise’s history, including two Super Bowl victories.
Bucs fans are particularly fond of his distinctive calls like “Touchdown, Tampa Bay!” which he has exclaimed over 1,100 times, along with his phrase “Fire the cannon!” that he popularized following scoring plays at home games.
Deckerhoff’s talent has not gone unnoticed; he has been honored as Florida Sportscaster of the Year 17 times and received the Chris Schenkel Award from the National Football Foundation in 2013, which is given to broadcasters with a consistent record of excellence.
In 2000, he also became the fourth broadcaster to be inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame.
Currently, the Buccaneers find themselves in a precarious position; a loss would end their season. However, if they win and the Saints defeat the Falcons, Tampa Bay would claim the NFC North title, allowing Deckerhoff to wrap up his storied career with at least one playoff game.
