Buccaneers Defender Sends A Clear Message Ahead Of Free Agency

(Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Despite some offseason roster turnover, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were able to win the NFC South again and make some noise in the 2023 NFL playoffs.

The Buccaneers upset the Philadelphia Eagles on the road in the Wild Card round and nearly beat the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional round.

Tampa Bay was propped up by a veteran group of players on both sides of the field, particularly on the defensive end where Lavonte David held down the edge for most of the season.

David just wrapped up his age-33 season and was one of the most productive outside linebackers in the NFL.

The veteran pass rusher was a menace tackling and getting after the quarterback, and should have plenty of suitors during free agency

However, David made it clear that he wants to stay with the Buccaneers and end his career with them, via Around the NFL.

“I do want to retire a Buc,” David said.

(ICYMI) Buccaneers OLB Lavonte David not open to joining new team in free agency: “I do want to retire a Buc”https://t.co/rrqECvTEz8 pic.twitter.com/lpYa9omTVc

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) February 25, 2024

David appeared in 17 games including the postseason and racked up 134 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 17 tackles for loss.

He has been a staple on the Buccaneers’ defense for years and it would be odd to see him in another jersey at this point of his career.

However, the team has to decide whether or not it’s worth investing in someone like David who appears to only have maybe one more year left in him.

Tampa Bay could sign him to a one-year deal at a modest price, or look to replace him in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft with a rookie on a cost-controlled deal.

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