The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are undergoing ongoing changes, a trend that has been apparent since Tom Brady’s retirement in early 2023. It has only been a single offseason since Brady departed, and the Bucs have been carefully assembling pieces to not only transition into a new era but also to establish a strong foundation for the future.
Baker Mayfield has taken over for Brady, while many see Jalen McMillan as a potential successor to Mike Evans, and Yaya Diaby is starting to assume the role left by Shaq Barrett. However, there’s another significant vacancy that the Buccaneers need to address, and although it’s easier said than done, time is running out.
Lavonte David returned for his 13th NFL season last year, but it’s uncertain how much longer he’ll continue to play. He performed at a high level in 2024, which is impressive given the usual decline in talent for players his age, but many are wondering if that was his farewell season before he heads into a well-deserved retirement.
Regardless of whether David decides to retire this offseason, the Bucs will need to develop a succession plan at linebacker. Luckily, they may have an ideal candidate available in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Buccaneers could target Alabama linebacker to take the torch from Lavonte David
ESPN Draft expert Jordan Reid has evaluated the new class of defensive rookies and believes there is one standout prospect who would be an ideal match for Todd Bowles and the Buccaneers. Not only does this player fit Bowles’ defensive style, but he also appears to be a suitable candidate to succeed Lavonte David.
“Tampa Bay has struggled with linebacker consistency and needs fresh talent in that position, especially since longtime star Lavonte David will turn 35 later this month. Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell is a young, promising player who excels at the second level and can create pressure in pass rush situations on crucial downs,” Reid noted.
The Bucs had originally thought they had addressed the need for David’s successor when they selected Devin White with a Top 5 pick in 2019, planning for him to eventually take over as a defensive leader alongside David.
For the first couple of years, this strategy seemed to work well, as White earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2020 and contributed to the Bucs’ Super Bowl victory against the Kansas City Chiefs. The following year, he made his first Pro Bowl; however, his performance declined significantly afterward. White’s time with the Buccaneers ended abruptly last offseason, and he has since played for two different teams.
Campbell appears to have the potential to succeed where White fell short. He possesses the leadership qualities needed to replace David and can work alongside Antoine Winfield Jr. as a strong presence in the locker room, while also providing the on-field skills that the Bucs desperately require.
Last season, the depth at linebacker was tested, and Tampa Bay’s pass rush left much to be desired. This offseason, the team aims to heavily invest in these areas, and Campbell ticks several important boxes in that pursuit.
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