Bucs linebacker Lavonte David forms a heart with his hands for the fans as he walks off the field following a season-ending victory over the Panthers on Jan. 3 at Raymond James Stadium.
Bucs linebacker Lavonte David forms a heart with his hands for the fans as he walks off the field following a season-ending victory over the Panthers on Jan. 3 at Raymond James Stadium.
Lavonte David is expected to reveal a decision today that could mark an end to an era for the Bucs.
One of the most decorated defenders in franchise history will either be preparing for another run or stepping away from a career that ultimately may lead to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
David will address his future at a news conference today at 2 p.m. at AdventHealth Center Training Center, the team announced.
David, who has indicated in the past that his options are to either return to Tampa Bay for a 15th season or retire, faces a pivotal decision at age 36.
The timing of the announcement is notable, coming just one day after the Bucs signed another starting-caliber inside linebacker, completing a one-year deal with former Panther Christian Rozeboom.
Rozeboom, whose 122 tackles last season led Carolina, is the second veteran inside linebacker to join the Bucs this offseason, following former Lion Alex Anzalone.
Bucs general manager Jason Licht said last week that David has earned the right to determine how his career ends, adding that the team would welcome him back. Still, Tampa Bay’s recent roster decisions suggest the organization is at least preparing for multiple scenarios.
If this does mark the end, David would leave as one of the most accomplished players in franchise history. He is tied with Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks as the Bucs’ all-time tackles leader. He is a Super Bowl champion. And he has a resume widely regarded as worthy of eventual enshrinement in the Hall.
He also would be the second iconic Bucs player to leave the organization in the last two weeks.
Receiver Mike Evans turned down “significantly” more money to sign with the 49ers rather than finish his career in Tampa Bay, Licht said.
For now, though, the focus shifts to this afternoon, where David is expected to provide clarity on a decision that carries significance for both the player and the franchise.
David made plenty of splashy plays during his career with the Bucs, but he was always the steady, sturdy performer the team came to rely on.
The quiet leader of the Bucs defense since he arrived as a second-round pick out of Nebraska in 2012, David has expressed a desire to spend more time with his daughter, Logan.
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