Bucs LB Lavonte David's Decision Could Help Tampa Bay

Veteran linebacker's return would address key need for the team.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:52pm

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have several offseason needs to address, but one key decision is still up in the air - whether veteran linebacker Lavonte David will return for a 15th NFL season or retire. David's return could help the Bucs shore up their linebacker position, which is an area of concern after the team signed only one new linebacker in free agency.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers have had success in recent years building a Super Bowl-caliber roster, but their linebacker corps is a question mark heading into the new season. David's potential retirement would leave a significant void that the team may struggle to fill, so his decision carries major implications for Tampa Bay's defensive outlook.

The details

The Bucs signed only one new linebacker, Anthony Anzalone, in free agency, and another young player, SirVocea Dennis, struggled in the open field last season. David, the Bucs' longest-tenured player, remains undecided on whether he'll return for a 15th year. His skill set is similar to Anzalone's, so his return would help solidify the linebacker position.

  • Lavonte David is currently weighing whether to return for a 15th NFL season or retire.

The players

Lavonte David

A veteran linebacker who has spent his entire 14-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Jason Licht

The general manager of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who has built a Super Bowl-winning roster in recent years.

Anthony Anzalone

A linebacker signed by the Buccaneers in free agency to help address needs at the position.

SirVocea Dennis

A young linebacker who struggled in the open field for the Buccaneers last season.

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What they’re saying

“The Bucs signed only Anzalone, and SirVocea Dennis struggled in the open field last season. Lavonte David, their longest-tenured player, remains undecided on whether he'll play a 15th season. His skill set is a lot like Anzalone's, although Anzalone said his role hasn't been defined to him yet. Will David return?”

— Jenna Laine, ESPN reporter

What’s next

The Buccaneers are waiting to see if Lavonte David will return for a 15th NFL season or retire.

The takeaway

Lavonte David's decision on whether to play another season or retire will have a significant impact on the Buccaneers' linebacker corps and their defensive outlook for the upcoming season. His return would help solidify a position of need for Tampa Bay.