9. Buccaneers LT Paul Gruber – 1990-1999

By Mark Cook

Gruber was the epitome of a “lunch pail football” player. He got up, went to work, gave 100 percent, and never complained. Even when playing through a good portion of the franchise’s lean years. Make no mistake – if Gruber had played for a major market winning team he would have made multiple Pro Bowls. Gruber was recognized twice, being named an All-Pro in 1991 and 1992, but never tasted pineapple in Hawaii which is shame.

A No. 1 pick in 1988 (fourth overall) out of Wisconsin, the Badger started every game in his first five years, never missing a single snap. He also started 183 games in row which was a team record before Derrick Brooks took that distinction. Gruber was coached by Ray Perkins, Richard Williamson and Sam Wyche and played on some bad football teams during that time. Fortunately for Gruber, Tony Dungy was hired and he was finally able to get a taste of the playoffs in 1997. Gruber’s career ended following a broken leg in the 1999 season and he retired in the offseason. The Bucs organization recognized his contributions and honored him with a place on the walls of Raymond James, inducting him into the Ring of Honor in 2012.

Cook’s Take: “Playing an entire for 12 seasons for one team doesn’t happen very often in professional sports, but Gruber did it in Tampa Bay. Offensive line isn’t a sexy pick, and there were plenty of draft blunders by the Bucs in the 80’s, but Gruber wasn’t one of them. The Bucs front office absolutely nailed the pick and the left tackle position was one that the team and their fans didn’t need to worry about for nearly 12 straight seasons. Not flashy, but ultra dependable, Gruber just went about his job with the ultimate professionalism. As mentioned above, it is shame Gruber didn’t get the notoriety he deserved, but real Bucs fans know the contributions and sacrifices Gruber made for this franchise.”