Earlier this offseason, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David had 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 35, 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 until he posted his desire to return to football on social media.
"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!"
It should prove to be a good move for both David and the Bucs, and it's one of the reasons why ESPN Aaron Schatz named the 13-year veteran the most underrated linebacker in the NFL.
"This might as well be a lifetime achievement award for one of the most underrated players in NFL history, but David is still getting it done at age 35," Schatz wrote. "He is the all-time leader (since 1991) in defeats, and David was still making these big plays last season (tied for fourth with 29 defeats). David made his average run tackle after a gain of just 2.7 yards, which ranked sixth among starting off-ball linebackers, too.
"His only (relative) weakness was pass coverage, where he had a below-average coverage DVOA and allowed 7.7 yards per target. He is back in Tampa Bay for another season after signing a one-year deal."
Last season, David posted 122 total tackles with 76 solo, 5.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception.
On a team that struggled to get pressure on the quarterback, David stood out. David and the Bucs agreed to a one-year deal for 2025 worth up to $10 million with $9 million guaranteed.
With his return, he'll be a big shot in the arm for the Bucs defense working alongside newcomer Haason Reddick, who was signed in free agency and draft picks David Walker and Elijah Roberts.