For 11 years Lavonte David has been the starting linebacker and leader of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But will that be continuing for a 12th year?
The answer appears to be a resounding yes. According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, David has confirmed that he’s returning to the Buccaneers on a one-year deal.
David’s contract expired after the 2022 season and there is a belief that the Buccaneers are heading into a potential rebuild. Some of the other moves they’ve made would certainly justify that assessment. But that rebuild will continue with David as their leader on defense.
Bucs fans and even a few non-Bucs fans appear to be thrilled by the news. Many have taken to Twitter to express how happy they are to see David returning.
Lavonte David was a second-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and finished fifth in the Rookie of the Year voting that season after an impressive first season with over 120 tackles.
The very next year, David burst onto the scene as a First-Team All-Pro, proving his abilities as an elite tackler, pass rusher and even ball hawk.
In the years to come, David would earn two more All-Pro selections and a Pro Bowl berth in 2015.
Will 2023 be Lavonte David’s final year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers though?