Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 30 greatest players in franchise history

Only the second player to currently be a member of the Buccaneers, Lavonte David is one of the focal points on a strong defensive unit in Tampa Bay. Active since 2012, David has spent all six of his seasons roaming from sideline to sideline with the Buccaneers.

His impressive play has earned him both All-Pro and Pro-Bowl honors, and of course, a spot on this list of the best players in Buccaneers franchise history.

A Nebraska alum, David holds the record for most tackles in a single season with 152. Coming out of college, there was some talk regarding David being undersized, but he quickly silenced that chatter. The Buccaneers traded up into the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft to get him, a decision I am sure they do not regret.

Outside linebackers must be adept in coverage to succeed in the NFL, as they are oftentimes responsible for marking tight ends or running backs on passing downs. David has shown his prowess in coverage in his six seasons, recording 10 interceptions, including the five he managed in 2013 en route to his All-Pro nomination. Needless to say, David is one of the best off-ball linebackers in the league.

In a few years, David may be higher on this list, significantly higher. He has only played six seasons and looks as though he could play for another six more at the least. For a guy that has drawn some Derrick Brooks comparisons in the past, David had very high expectations to meet.

Thus far, he has done just that. The Buccaneers found a gem in David at outside linebacker. Hopefully they are able to find some success and reach the playoffs, so fans can watch him perform in meaningful games late in the winter.