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Jenna Laine
Linebacker Lavonte David is returning to his longtime team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, on a one-year deal worth up to $10 million, his agent, Ron Butler, told ESPN on Friday.
The deal includes $9 million guaranteed.
David had been noncommittal on a return at the end of the season, and the Bucs afforded him time to weigh his options.
He chose to return to the team for his 14th season. He’s been a team captain for 11 consecutive campaigns.
“I love the game to much to give it up just yet!” David wrote on Instagram. “Good lord blessing me with another opportunity so I figured I should take advantage of it! Tampa I’m not done yet! See you soon!”
In announcing the move, Bucs general manager Jason Licht called David “not only one of the greatest Buccaneers in history, but is the embodiment of consistency, excellence, and leadership.”
“For over a decade, he has been the heart of our defense, setting the standard with his relentless work ethic and passion for the game,” Licht said as part of a statement. “His impact on and off the field is immeasurable, and we are thrilled to have him back for another season.”
Last season, David was the sole player in the NFL with at least 100 tackles, 5.0 sacks and three or more forced fumbles. His 1,111 solo tackles are the most of any active player since 2012.
David, 35, has been unbelievably durable throughout his career, with 208 starts (regular and postseason combined), fourth most of any player in the league since 2012 and the second most of any linebacker after Bobby Wagner (221).
He is one of just four players since tackles were first tracked in 1994 to register at least 1,500 combined tackles, 35 sacks and 10 interceptions along with London Fletcher, Ray Lewis and Wagner.
David’s 20 fumble recoveries are the most of any player at any position since 2012, and his 31 forced fumbles are third most. His 70 passes defended are second most among active linebackers since 2012. He has the most 100-plus-tackle seasons of any player in the league since 2009 (nine), and his 169 tackles for loss are the most of any off-the-ball linebacker since 2012.