TAMPA, FL – Linebacker Lavonte David has agreed to return for his 13th season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year, $9 million contract, a source familiar with the situation revealed. The deal, with a possible maximum value of $10 million, solidifies David as a key player for the team’s upcoming season. David’s decision to rejoin the Buccaneers follows the re-signing of star wide receiver Mike Evans and the new contract for starting quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Having led the team with 134 tackles, 17 tackles for a loss, and 4.5 sacks, David’s performance in the previous season marked him as a standout player in the league. At 34 years old, David’s remarkable statistics in 2023 placed him as the only player in the NFL with over 100 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss, and 3 sacks. Additionally, his 17 tackles for loss are among the highest ever recorded for a player over 33 years old since 2008.
As a second-round draft pick for the Buccaneers in 2012, David’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. Named a team captain for ten consecutive seasons, David has cemented his status as a franchise icon with 181 regular-season games under his belt. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Lavonte David Foundation have positively impacted underprivileged students in Hillsborough and Miami-Dade counties by providing college scholarships and school supplies.
With an impressive career boasting 1,035 solo tackles, 18 fumble recoveries, and countless other accolades, David’s return to the Buccaneers showcases his dedication to the team and the Tampa Bay community. As the team gears up for the new season, David’s presence on the field is sure to make a significant impact both in the game and in the community he serves.