Alstott was asked to coach running backs

Coach Jon Gruden asked fullback Mike Alstott if he would consider coaching running backs but the six-time Pro Bowl player declined after spending a week considering the offer.

Gruden hinted at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., all week that he planned to interview a big name for the running backs position Thursday. It turned out to be the A-Train, who said he will consider another position with the organization in the future but did not elaborate on his plans at a news conference to announce his retirement.

"Yes, we've had some discussions and I think our discussions will continue for me to be part of this organization,'' Alstott said.

But Alstott later said he was flattered by Gruden's gesture.

"It was pretty awesome and I was honored,'' Alstott said during an interview from the Bahamas on 620-WDAE. "We had some good conversations in the past couple weeks that closed a lot of things as far as my playing career with Jon and that championship year and everything. I was honored and very grateful for a lot of things that were discussed in that meeting.''

Gruden indicated Thursday he hoped Alstott would remain with the team in some capacity.

"All I can do is celebrate what has been a great career, an unbelievable career as a player and a teammate,'' Gruden said. "We'll never forget you. You took 96 Power King and 14 Blast to an unforgettable level. It's a been a pleasure, it's been an honor, to coach one of the great football players in Buccaneer history.

"We'll miss ya, and we're going to try to hire you to do something.''

Comments

[aaron]

why in the world would he turn the offer down? he would be perfect for that position.
gruden has gained a lot of points in my eyes by offering him that job. i just dont understand why he would turn it down!

[carolann]

Mike thanks so much for taking us with you on the 12 year train ride, God Bless you and your family and thanks so much for the exciting memories

[Nate]

He has no coaching experience. More coaches fail (are fired) than succeed. With that information, would you do something that could taint your legacy in the city that loves you like no other? He'll take a plush job where his name means more than his work and the team (and our appreciation of him) will be better for it.

[Joe]

I actually thought the same thing about coaching RBs. However, with no experience, I think he should be an assistant of some kind to learn the actual "coaching" aspect. then in a few years, he can apply the coaching aspect with his playing experience for him to succeed.

[Voc]

Why coach for the man who once he got here, helped his numbers decline. I sure as He@$ would not.... Let him find someone else....

[JoeG]

Hmmmmmmm, coaching in the (what have you done for me lately) NFL, or accepting a front office position at a later date.

It'd be an easy choice for me, take the long term security of a front office position, and bypass the violent nature of being position coach and possibly being fired in a few short years.

[Jordon]

I think Mike should take a year off to spend time with his family before taking a coaching position with the Bucs. He's earned some well deserved rest and relaxation!! Look to see the A-Train back on the Bucs sideline in a season or two!!