The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have re-signed linebacker Lavonte David to a two-year, $25 million contract extension. The 31 year-old veteran has spent his entire career with the Buccaneers, as he originally joined the organization during the 2012 NFL Draft. The deal comes a week before free agency and will include $20 million in guaranteed money. The contract will also have three voidable years, keeping David’s cap number at a manageable $3.5 million for the Bucs.
In his overall career with Tampa Bay, David has registered over 1,100 combined tackles, 24 sacks, and 12 interceptions. With his impressive stats and leadership, there are no questions to why David is the Buccaneers team captain. His great attitude qualifies as second to none, as he knows how to prepare the defense for a big game. Although some may disagree, it’s no longer a stretch to consider him as one of the best linebackers in the entire NFL. Hence why, David has a 92.8 coverage grade since 2016 (1st), according to PFF.
The Buccaneers Updated Free Agency Situation
With David finally receiving his big payday, all eyes are pointed towards Shaquil Barrett. Barrett played a vital role on the Tampa Bay defense in 2020, and having him back would be a huge acquisition for the Buccaneers. However, with multiple other key free agents showing interest in coming back to Tampa, that might not be possible. The team will obviously have to address the free agents that stick out on the offensive side of the football, as Tom Brady wants all the help he can get.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, Lavonte David signing with Tampa Bay should cause Buccaneers fans to feel satisfaction. However, it should also be taken with a grain of salt, as Shaquil Barrett may not return. Either way, expect the Buccaneers front office to do what is best for the team. Considering they put together the 2020 Buccaneers, Tampa Bay fans should not worry about what decisions they make. At the end of the day, Buccaneers fans should expect their team to be right back as a Super Bowl contender.