Veteran linebacker Lavonte David announced his retirement following a historic 14-year career with the Bucs on Tuesday.David was drafted by Tampa Bay in 2012 out of the University of Nebraska. He spent his entire career with the team as one of the longest-tenured players in franchise history.David is tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks for the career franchise lead in total tackles, which the team said ranks sixth-most in NFL history.Over more than a decade, David reported 1,714 tackles, 79 quarterback hits, 73 passes defensed, 42.5 sacks, 33 forced fumbles, 21 fumble recoveries, 14 interceptions and three defensive touchdowns, earned one Associated Press first-team All-Pro selection (2013), two AP second-team All-Pro selections (2016, 2020), a Pro Bowl nod (2015) and a spot on NFL.com's 2010s All-Decade Team, per the team."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," said The Glazer Family, owners of the Buccaneers, in a press release from the team.David started all 17 games for the Bucs in the 2025 season, racking up 114 tackles, including 61 solo, plus 3.5 sacks and one interception."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," said head coach Todd Bowles.The Bucs made the announcement ahead of a scheduled press conference with David on Tuesday afternoon.The press conference is set to start at 2 p.m. on March 24 at the AdventHealth Training Center.Tampa Bay 28 will be at the event, streaming it live on the website, Facebook and YouTube. ...read more read less