Honestly, I could tell he was slipping in 1998 (our Super Bowl year). So, he should have known it, since it is much easier for a player to rate himself than for a fan to rate him. We fans don't watch film, and we really don't know a whole lot about what is going on in that chaotic, jumbled mass of 22 players on the field. The coaches knew it too, because that year they started replacing him on 3rd down passing situations, because he was no longer fast enough to cover people. But, when Reeves made the stupid decision to offer him a huge contract the next year, that probably sent mixed signals. I don't blame Tuggle for taking the money, I blame the Falcons for offering it. Though, of course, it was a nice gift to an incredibly loyal and talented player.
By the way, I think it was really stupid and mean the way they made Tuggle go through the extensive rehab on his knee, and through an entire training camp, and then tell him to retire right before the season. Tuggle won't complain, because he is so loyal, but it wasn't right the way they handled things.
Tom |
