David joined the Bucs as a 22-year-old second-round selection out of Nebraska in the 2012 NFL Draft.
TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Bay Buccaneers Linebacker Lavonte David is announcing his retirement after a 14-year career spent exclusively with the team.
The team announced David’s retirement moments before he is set to speak at a news conference at 2 p.m. inside the AdventHealth Training Center Auditorium.
David joined the Bucs as a 22-year-old second-round selection out of Nebraska in the 2012 NFL Draft.
David has had a historic career with Bucs Nation, being a former 12-time captain, Super Bowl LV champion and one of the most accomplished players in franchise history.
David finishes his career starting all 215 games in which he played to rank third in club history both appearances and starts behind only Pro Football Hall of Famers Rondé Barber (241/232) and Derrick Brooks (224/221). His 14 seasons tied Brooks for the second-most ever, trailing only Barber (16).
David earned a tie with Pro Football Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks as the career franchise leaders in total tackles (1,714), which also ranks tied for the sixth-most in NFL history, according to Opta StatsPass records.
Over his storied career, David posted 1,714 tackles, 79 quarterback hits, 73 passes defensed, 42.5 sacks, 33 forced fumbles, 21 fumble recoveries, 14 interceptions and three defensive touchdowns.
He stands alongside Pro Football Hall of Famers Ray Lewis, Junior Seau, Jason Taylor and Brian Urlacher as the only players since at least 1982 with over 35 takeaways and more than 40 sacks in their careers.
The Glazer Family, owner of the Bucs, and Head Coach Todd Bowles gave the following statements on David’s retirement:
“For the past 14 seasons, Lavonte David has personified what it means to be a Tampa Bay Buccaneer. He was a selfless leader both on and off the field, playing with passion and a genuine love for the game. He leaves a legacy as a Super Bowl champion and one of the greatest players in franchise history, setting a standard that will continue to impact our organization for years to come. Today, we celebrate Lavonte’s legendary career as one of the most accomplished players of his era and thank him for the many memorable moments he provided our fans. Beyond the statistics and accolades, he will be remembered throughout Tampa Bay for his humble demeanor and strong commitment to our community. We wish him well on his journey after football and look forward to honoring his Hall of Fame-worthy achievements in the near future.” — The Glazer Family.
“Before I came to the Buccaneers, I always had immense respect for Lavonte as a special football player. Having had the fortune to coach him for the last seven seasons, I have also experienced the special person and leader he is. He has been the heart and soul of our defense and a Super Bowl champion on the way to being an eventual Hall of Famer. There isn’t anyone more respected by his teammates, and that respect extends to his peers and opposing coaches throughout the league. I, as well as everyone in this organization, will miss him tremendously.” — Todd Bowles.