Christian Rozeboom
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Carolina Panthers linebacker Christian Rozeboom.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers gave the latest and biggest news that seems to indicate legendary inside linebacker Lavonte David might be headed toward retirement, signing starting Carolina Panthers inside linebacker Christian Rozeboom to a 1-year contract.
The Buccaneers’ defense employs 2 starting inside linebackers, and the Buccaneers have now signed 2 starting inside linebackers this offseason after inking Detroit Lions inside linebacker Alex Anzalone to a 2-year, $17 million free agent contract.
“TheBucs are signing formerPanthers andRams LB Christian Rozeboom … as he stays in the division,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport wrote on his official X account on Monday. “He had 122 tackles last year.”
In an interesting twist, Rozeboom was a high school teammate of Buccaneers tight end Ko Kieft, who also signed a new contract this offseason. The 2 played together at Sioux Center High School in Sioux Center, Iowa — population 8,229.
“Christian Rozeboom, 29, gives the Bucs a second veteran linebacker with extensive starting experience,” Fox Sports NFL reporter Greg Auman wrote on his official X account. “Late bloomer had 257 tackles in last two years with Rams and Panthers after totaling 90 in his first three years. 12 TFLs, two INTs, three sacks over last two years as well … Bucs have now signed two linebackers who were every-game NFL starters last year. Means they’re now well-covered ahead of draft if Lavonte David does choose to retire.”
From UDFA to Full-Time NFL Starting LB