In the offseason, it’s hard to create NFL content. There are no games to analyze and no action to talk about. But we see a lot of player rankings and player interviews this time of year.
One interview of note that recently came out was with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David. The 14 year veteran retired after last season. He put together an incredible Hall of Fame worthy career, all with the Bucs.
However, based on his most recent interview, I question if that career is really over. The team’s current depth at linebacker is still questionable and could be looking for veteran help down the line. Could David be that help whom they eventually call?
Here’s why I believe that Lavonte David could return to the Bucs this season.
David recently did an interview with ESPN’s “This is football”. When asked about the Buccaneers defense, David spoke very highly. He specifically spoke on the conversations between himself and Buccaneers rookie pass rusher Rueben Bain.
The two players are both from Miami and have a previous relationship. Bain expressed to David that he wished he’d waited one more year to retire so they could play together. David had this to say in response.
“Maybe I should have, but you know the deal is already done.”
David is right about that. The Buccaneers built their offseason around replacing production at linebacker. They brought in a pair of veteran, free agents and invested a second round draft pick into revamping their linebacker core.
Even if David wanted to come back, there is no longer a place for him on the roster. However, that isn’t to say they couldn’t use his skill set should the team suffer an injury.
Currently, the only linebacker with proven coverage skills on the Bucs roster is Alex Anzalone. He was brought in as a coverage specialist to replace David who has always been a good coverage player throughout his career. This was viewed as an upgrade over David after the veteran struggled with a knee injury for much of last year and didn’t look like his normal self.
But if something were to happen to Anzalone, who would take his place? SirVocea Dennis who looked awful in coverage last year? Christian Rozeboom is an option, but he is more of a between the tackles thumper.
Realistically, the Bucs wouldn’t have a natural replacement for Anzalone if you were to get injured. They would be in the same situation they were last year. That’s where David comes back into play.
If David can stay in plain shape, then he could come out of retirement and rejoin the team later on in the year if they need him. This would put less wear and tear on his body while still giving the Bucs a linebacking option who can cover and is familiar with their defense.
Do I believe that this is likely to happen? Not necessarily. But it would make me feel a lot better about the Buccaneers linebacker situation if this door remains open to them. It’s a very logical solution for both parties.
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