As Josh Cribbs’ career neared its end, his role -- whether it was in Oakland, New York or Indianapolis -- went a shade beyond returning punts and kicks. From time to time, Cribbs, as an “old head” who’d seen it all during a career that spanned more than a decade -- would take the lead in special teams meetings.
For Cribbs, who stampeded into the NFL in 2005 as an undrafted free agent with the Browns, it felt right. It felt like a future.
“They respected me enough to allow me to have the floor,” Cribbs said.