The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are anxiously awaiting the decision of linebacker Lavonte David as he ponders retirement vs. playing again in 2025.
David, who played on a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the Bucs last season, will become a free agent on March 12 unless he and Tampa Bay come to terms on a new deal before then.
Dec 15, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) celebrates after a sack of Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) in the second half at SoFi Stadium.
© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Buccaneers have expressed an interest in bringing David back, but at 35 years of age, the former Nebraska Cornhusker may be ready to hang up the cleats.
Either way, Josina Anderson reported on Thursday that the two sides have opened discussions 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 just completed his 13th season in Tampa Bay and has been playing on one-year deals recently to allow him the ability to retire when he’s ready.
David played all 17 regular-season games for the Bucs. last season and totaled 122 total sacks with 76 solo, six sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception.
