Hardy Nickerson, the unsung hero of the Bucs’ 1990s turnaround

On a national level, when the discussion arises regarding the transformation experienced by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the mid-1990s, most of the conversation centers on the Hall of Fame defenders who would eventually prove to be the core of their championship unit in 2002.

But while it’s right to give well-earned praise to the likes of Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp, John Lynch and Rondé Barber, there’s one player who still doesn’t get the respect he deserves for setting the early foundation for the Bucs’ turnaround in those years.

Hardy Nickerson was one of the NFL’s best linebackers during his time in Tampa Bay, and his veteran leadership proved to be invaluable to those future Hall of Famers who spent their early years learning from his experience.

In case you forgot, check out this awesome highlight reel of Nickerson during his days in Tampa Bay:

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