The Tampa Bay Buccaneers re-signed one of their own ahead of free agency when linebacker Lavonte David resisted the temptation of retirement and signed a one-year deal to play football at least one more season.
The deal was announced on Friday, and on Monday, the team announced details of that deal.
Per Aaron Wilson, David has the opportunity to add to his $3.5 million base.
"#Buccaneers one-year, $9M deal for Lavonte David, fully guaranteed, salary $3.5M; $5M roster bonus third day after execution of contract, $29,412 per game active roster bonus guaranteed, plus $600K sacks, interceptions, playtime, playoffs incentive"
David has been vocal about contemplating retirement after completing a one-year deal with the Bucs in 2024. He remains one of the best defensive players on the team, and at age 34 is still playing at a high level.
That's something the Bucs desperately need in 2025, but David's future in the league was uncertain.
After posting a video of himself working out on Friday, David put all questions to rest with a post later in the day on Facebook.
"I love the game too much to give it up just yet! Good lord blessing me with another opportunity so I figured I should take advantage of it! Tampa I'm not done yet! See you soon!"
David posted 122 total tackles with 76 solo, 5.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception.
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On a team that struggled to get pressure on the quarterback all season, David stood out. Now that he's announced his return, he'll be a big shot in the arm for the Bucs defense.
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This story was originally published March 10, 2025 at 10:08 AM.