Sapp - Unquestioned Leader

Gwenn Knapp wrote a telling feature (click here) on Warren Sapp in today’s San Francisco Chronicle. The article revealed Sapp’s pure passion and true love for playing professional football. It pointed out that he relishes his role as a veteran leader of the Oakland Raiders.

Amongst the 53 man Raider roster, Warren Sapp is the unquestioned leader of the Silver and Black. He has been instrumental in the rapid resurgence of the Raiders defense. #99’s performance and presence on the field coupled with his influence in the locker room has benefited a young and inexperienced unit. Sapp, who is in his 12th season in the NFL, is a 7 time Pro Bowler. His current career sack total of 87.5 is the most sacks recorded by a defensive tackle. There is no doubt that Mr. QB Killa will be a sure-fire, 1st ballot hall of fame selection whenever he decides to hang up his spikes.

My best guess is that the 2007 season will be #99’s last year of professional football. As long as Sapp remains healthy, continues to enjoy the combat in the trenches and being the elder statesman on the team, he will probably try to squeeze every last drop out of his career.

Sapp's Career Statistics (click here). To go to Warren Sapp's official website (click here).

"This team is definitely different,'' Sapp said. "We have a brotherhood of men. It just can't be put into words, what it means. You've got that trust, that love, between 11 men working together. It's a beautiful thing to watch.''