Devin White Says He's 'Stupid' for Trade Request as Baker Mayfield, Bucs Start 2-0

Failing to get traded has been a blessing in disguise for Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Devin White.

Following the Bucs' 2-0 start, White said on Instagram that "this defense is so fun to be apart of" and that he was "stupid for trying to leave."

The 2021 Pro Bowler addressed his trade request in August, calling it "a little selfish" as his primary focus was getting a new long-term contract. He's due to be a free agent in the offseason after Tampa Bay triggered his $11.7 million option for 2023.

The Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud subsequently reported a "secret meeting" between White, general manager Jason Licht and head coach Todd Bowles helped to get the 25-year-old back on board.

White is obviously all smiles now, and he might wind up getting the payday he coveted in due time.

He has 14 tackles, one tackle for loss and one pass defended through two games. The performance of Tampa Bay's defense might be helping to pad his value as well. The Bucs forced three turnovers in their 20-17 win over the Minnesota Vikings and then held the Chicago Bears to 236 yards while intercepting two of Justin Fields' passes.

For now, White is making a compelling case to be among the highest-paid off-ball linebackers in the NFL when it's time for him to approach the negotiating table.