Jason Licht gives update on Lavonte David's future with Buccaneers

Based on this recent development, it appears as though there is interest from both Lavonte David and the Buccaneers for a potential reunion in 2025.

Collin Haalboom | Feb 25, 2025

Jan 12, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) celebrates after a stop during the fourth quarter of a NFC wild card playoff against the Washington Commanders at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images / Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Since being drafted in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Bucs inside linebacker Lavonte David has established himself as franchise icon. His versatility, leadership, and intelligence have allowed David to perform as one of the league's greatest linebackers over the past decade, and his presence has been essential to the Buccaneers' success over the past five seasons.

But at 35-years of age, there's no question that the door is beginning to close on David's illustrious career.

That said, despite father time biting at his heels, David proved in 2025 — playing on a 1-year deal — that he still has more than enough left in the tank to start in the middle of an NFL defense. The question is, how much longer will he and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers be willing to test the limits of his excellence?

Based on his commitment to the franchise — proven through his willingness to re-sign in Tampa Bay on short-term, below-market contracts in recent seasons — it's fair to assume that if David does decide to continue playing, it will be for the Buccaneers. But there's plenty of logic to be found in the assumption that retirement is a realistic option in his mind.

However, according to JC Allen of BucsGameday, the Buccaneers have plans to meet with Lavonte David and his representation in Indianapolis this week to discuss his future.

Per source, the Buccaneers and Lavonte David’s camp will meet this week at the combine to discuss his future. David is set to become a free agent once the new league year starts and has said he is year to year on continuing his playing career.
— JC Allen (@JCAllenNFL) February 25, 2025

General manager Jason Licht was also asked about David's future at the Combine, and he mentioned that he's "not stressing" about the situation.

"We'll probably talk to Lavonte soon," Licht said. "Give him a little space. We'll probably talk to him when we get back. I talked to Lavonte a few weeks ago. Had a great conversation. You know, of course, you have to make contingency plans, but right now, I'm not stressing."

Sure, Lavonte David isn't quite as explosive athletically as he was earlier in his career. But he's still an above average NFL linebacker whose leadership, IQ and instincts help to elevate those around him. As such, there's no question that another season in pewter and red would be a significant benefit to a Bucs' defense that has plenty of holes to fill this offseason.

The fact that David and his camp are going out of their way to meet with the team in Indianapolis speaks to at least some level of interest in returning to play for another season is good news for everyone involved.

It is widely expected that Bucs GM Jason Licht will target a variety of defensive positions early and often this offseason, through the draft, free agency and potentially the trade market. Don't expect that to change if the team is able to work out another one-year contract with one of the greatest defensive players in team history, Lavonte David. His presence will be essential to an improved Bucs defense in 2025, regardless of how many new faces are introduced.

Stick with BucsGameday for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2024 season.

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Published Feb 25, 2025

COLLIN HAALBOOM

Prior to joining BucsGameday and Sports Illustrated, Collin's written content was provided through Bucs Banter, and NFL Draft Lounge. He is also the creator and host of the Bucs Banter Podcast. He is a graduate of the Communication Studies program at McMaster University, where he was also a varsity basketball player, and later an advanced scout. He lives with his wife and two children in Hamilton, ON. You can follow Collin on YouTube and Twitter.