The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in limbo as they await the decision of veteran linebacker Lavonte David, who is weighing the options of retirement versus returning for the 2025 season.

David, who played under a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Buccaneers in 2024, is set to hit free agency on March 12 unless he and the team can agree on an extension prior to the start of the new league year.

While the Buccaneers have indicated a desire to re-sign Lavonte David, the 35-year-old linebacker’s advanced age may prompt him to consider retirement, potentially bringing an end to his illustrious NFL career.

With that said, Josina Anderson posted on Thursday that the both sides have opened talks and that it was a “positive conversation.”

“Combine News: I’m told that the #Buccaneers met with Lavonte David’s agent yesterday here at the Combine, per source. I’m told ‘it was a positive conversation.’ My understanding is that the #Bucs are still willing to give David ample time if necessary to decide on still playing the game. Additionally, other teams are checking on David’s potential interest in playing elsewhere beyond Tampa Bay.”

David recently wrapped up his 13th season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, having structured his recent contracts as one-year deals to maintain control over his retirement timeline.

In 2024, David demonstrated remarkable durability, playing in all 17 regular-season games. He compiled an impressive stat line, including 122 total tackles (76 solo), six sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception.