After playing a vital role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers success during his tenure as head coach through the 2002-2008 NFL seasons, Jon Gruden will be inducted into the Buccaneers Hall of Fame this year along with late owner Malcolm Glazer.

One of Gruden’s most notable accomplishments was leading the Bucs to their lone Super Bowl victory against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII in January of 2003. Gruden also played an integral role in the development of the franchise, escorting the Buccaneers to a 12-4 record in his first season as head coach, a first-place finish in the division and of course anchoring the Bucs to their resounding Super Bowl victory. When the Bucs hired Gruden, he stepped in and completely transformed the team and helped in the development of several Hall of Famers and Pro Bowlers as well. He led the Bucs to 57 wins during his seven years as head coach, which is the most in franchise history.

After being informed of the news, Gruden took a few moments to discuss what it means to be recognized for such a prestigious honor.

“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the Buccaneer organization, and the Glazer family in particular, for the tremendous honor of entering the Ring of Honor along with Mr. Glazer,” Gruden said via the Buccaneers PR Department. “Malcolm Glazer set the expectations for the entire organization by creating a family atmosphere that really helped bring everyone together. He was everything a coach or a player could ask for in an owner and I am very grateful that we got to experience that Super Bowl victory together.”

Gruden will be inducted into the Ring of Honor on December 18th during the Bucs Monday Night Football matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Meanwhile, Glazer will be honored during the team’s Thursday Night Football game against the Patriots on October 5th.