Longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers inside linebacker Lavonte David is retiring from the NFL after 14 seasons, according to Jenna Laine of ESPN.
David, a 12-time team captain and a vital member of the Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV-winning squad in 2020, was the longest-tenured player on the team's current roster. Since being selected by Tampa Bay in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, he has been a mainstay of the defense, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors while becoming one of the most productive linebackers of his generation.
Throughout his 14-year career, David remained a one-club man, providing veteran leadership and elite playmaking for the Bucs. His departure marks the conclusion of a highly decorated career that saw him rank among the franchise's all-time leaders in tackles, forced fumbles, and tackles for loss. Per Adam Schefter, the veteran defender has decided to hang up his cleats following over a decade of service to the organization.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting