LB Lavonte David
Alright, this one is not one who really goes unnoticed, but just is so quiet as he goes about his business that he often gets overlooked. Linebacker Lavonte David is playing at a high level for the Bucs’ defense in his first season under defensive coordinator Todd Bowles. In fact, if he continues at this pace, David could and should get back to the Pro Bowl for the first time since 2015.
It is not an unknown that the Bucs have a top rated run defense, and one of the main reasons why is because of the play of David at the second level. On pace for a massive 122 tackles this season, David has also tallied five tackles for loss, five hits on opposing quarterbacks, a sack, an interception, and three passes defended.
Talk about stuffing the stat sheet.
According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required) David is grading out at a high 78.2 as he seems to be in the correct position and involved in nearly every play made within the first five yards of the line of scrimmage. While Devin White has been all of the talk of the town since he was selected with the fifth overall pick in the draft last April, David has reminded us not to forget about the seasoned, savvy vet.