Ronde Barber was almost wistful in speaking of how much former Bucs safety John Lynch means to the Tampa Bay community.

Last night after the Bucs 27-10 win over New England, Joe got a brief moment with Bucs cornerback Ronde Barber. Being John Lynch’s old defensive backfield brother, Barber had a few thoughts to share about Lynch’s return to the CITS, albeit wearing those evil Patriots uniforms.

Joe: What were your thoughts when, after Lynch had an assist early in the game, the crowd roared for him?

Ronde: He’s still loved here. He will never not be. He’s an icon in Tampa Bay man.

It was good to see him, you know? Glad he landed on his feet and I am sure he will have a big opportunity up there. I look forward to watching him in his 15th season or whatever season it is.

Joe: Would it be neat if — when Lynch retires — he could sign a one-day contact with Tampa Bay so he could retire a Buccaneer?

Ronde: (laughs) That’s up to him. I don’t think he has retirement on his mind yet. We’ll never forget what he’s been a part of here. Not a lot of guys that are still around that know a whole bunch about him. It’s more of lore about him than a legacy to this point with so many people that have moved on.

He’s still No. 47 in red to us.