The 32-year-old was forced to retire on medical grounds this week, ending a glittering career which included playing 40 times for England, five tests for the British and Irish Lions and 173 appearances for his beloved club.
And from one flanker to another, Mad Dog Moody, who also had his fair share of injuries, paid tribute to Croft, describing him as a player like none other.
"He was a very special player and a unique talent," he said.
"He was like none other. His athletic ability, the core strength he had, the speed, the balance, he was phenomenal.
"Tom was my player of the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour. It was a wonderful sight seeing a giant of a man burn a backline with ease. I remember when he left the French team for dead a few years ago, that was incredible."Croft's last competitive game was back in March and Moody was quick to praise the resilience of his former Leicester Tiger during his injury-hit career.
"There is nothing more annoying than not being able to do the things you love because of injury," he said.
"It takes huge mental resilience to keep on going and keep overcoming every setback and Tom had that. He had a tonne of injuries but he kept coming back, it is just such a shame that he has been hampered by so many setbacks in recent years.
"All I can say is that it was a pleasure to play with him. He loved the game and he played with a smile, although I remember him not smiling as much through training.
"I am not sure if he has mentioned this but I know he did dance at school so maybe he put some of his athletic ability down to that. I wish him the best."
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