Lavonte David Says He Wants to Retire with Bucs Ahead of 2024 NFL Free Agency

Lavonte David wants to be a Buccaneer for life.

David, who has spent his entire 12-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said during an appearance on 95.3 WDAE that he doesn't want to leave the organization until it's time for him to retire.

"Of course, I would want to do that. I would want to stay a Buc for the rest of my career as long as I play," David said. "I do want to retire a Buc, but, you know, it's just got to be a mutual thing."

David is a free agent again this offseason after inking just a one-year deal with the Bucs prior to the 2023 campaign.

The 34-year-old linebacker has been an important member of Tampa Bay's defense since being selected in the second round of the 2012 draft. He helped the team win a Super Bowl in 2021 and has earned an All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection during his tenure with the organization.

While David's best days are likely behind him, he still put together a solid 2023 season, posting 4.5 sacks, five pass breakups, one forced fumble, 134 tackles 17 tackles for loss and five quarterback hits in 15 games.

And although David is hoping to remain in Tampa Bay, he might have to wait a while to get a deal done as the Bucs need to also re-sign wide receiver Mike Evans, quarterback Baker Mayfield and left guard Aaron Stinnie.

If David ultimately has to move on from the Bucs, SirVocea Dennis, Yaya Diaby and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka would be the next men up at linebacker alongside K.J. Britt and Shaq Barrett.