Lavonte David, the heart and soul of the Buccaneers’ defense, continued his dominance in 2024 at the age of 34. He was the lone player in the league this past season with 100-plus tackles, 5.0-plus sacks and three-or-more forced fumbles. Over the past 10 seasons, only four players have recorded those numbers in a single season: David (2024), Antoine Winfield Jr. (2023), Shaquille Leonard (2018) and Thomas Davis (2015).

David amassed 122 tackles, nine tackles for loss, six quarterback hits and 5.5 sacks (career-best) in 2024. He became a focal point in blitz packages and continued his prowess in coverage versus tight ends. David possesses sensational play recognition and the tackling technician has an elite understanding of leverage. Regarded as one of the best linebackers of this generation and one of the most accomplished linebackers in league annals, David signed a one-year pact with the Bucs in March. In 2025, David will tie Hall of Fame linebacker Derrick Brooks for the second-most seasons played in franchise history. His Hall of Fame-worthy career places him atop the franchise’s most esteemed players. David ranks second in franchise history in tackles, first in forced fumbles and fumble recoveries and he is tied for sixth in sacks. Since the NFL actively began tracking tackles in 1994, David is one of just four players to amass 1,500-plus tackles, 35.0-plus sacks and 10-plus interceptions, joining Bobby Wagner, Ray Lewis and London Fletcher.

David became a guest star on the Up & Adams show with host Kay Adams and discussed his thought process going into year 14 with Tampa Bay.

“It feels great and it feels like an accomplishment, honestly, to have had the opportunity to play this game for 14 years,” said David. “I never thought I would be in this position first and foremost. I thought I would be long gone by now but it is here. Thank God and thank the Bucs for keeping me around. It is definitely a blessing.”

At Planet Fitness, Bucs’ running back Rachaad White helped promote teen physical activity. The Planet Fitness’ high school Summer Pass Program allows teens aged 14-19 to work out for free at any location from June 1-August 31, fostering physical and mental fortitude throughout the summer. White took part in an event with local high school students that pre-registered for HSSP for a photo opportunity. White spoke with the attendees to advocate for staying active.

“Working out is so important for your health because of physical reasons, of course, but also your mental health,” described White. “This is a great opportunity to do something good for your soul and body—it makes you happy… “I would say to the teens, as I have been in their shoes before, just having this opportunity to get a free pass for a summer, I’d tell them to do it and enjoy it…and tell a friend about it. The more teens do it with their friends or buddies, the more accustomed they will become to it.”