Overview
- Lavonte David retired after 14 seasons with the Buccaneers in March 2026 and has since been publicly enjoying retirement while reflecting on his decision.
- Tampa Bay selected Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain with a first-round pick in the April 2026 NFL Draft and David says he called Bain after the selection, telling ESPN 'Maybe I should have' delayed retirement.
- Bain arrives with high college production and awards — 54 tackles and 9.5 sacks in 2025, ACC Defensive Player of the Year, First-team All-American and the Ted Hendricks Award — while reports say off-field legal issues contributed to his slide to No. 15.
- The Buccaneers have responded to David’s exit by adding veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone in free agency and drafting linebacker Josiah Trotter as they rebuild the second level of the defense.
- David says he will support Bain, has 'high hopes' for the roster and would consider coaching in the future so his involvement could speed the rookie's development and shape Tampa Bay's young defense.