Former Husker star Lavonte David announces retirement after 14 seasons in Tampa Bay
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Former Nebraska linebacker Lavonte David announced his retirement on Tuesday following a 14-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
David announced his retirement with a heartfelt letter on social media.
Courtesy @lavontedavid / Instagram
The 36-year-old from Miami is one of the most respected linebackers of his generation — known for his consistency, leadership and being seriously underrated during his career.
David was a 12-time team captain for the Bucs and was the heart of the defense, especially during their Super Bowl run in 2019-20.
He played a total of 215 games with Tampa Bay, racking up 1,716 total tackles, 42.5 sacks, 14 interceptions, 33 forced fumbles and two defensive touchdowns.
David produced 12 seasons with 100+ tackles, and his 177 tackles for loss are a franchise record.
He finished his NFL career as Tampa Bay’s all-time tackles leader and one of the most productive linebackers in modern NFL history.
At Nebraska, David racked up 285 tackles, 11 sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles in two seasons.
Lavonte David got very emotional talking about his late parents and how much they meant to him… Powerful stuff.
“Growing up where I grew up, it ain’t easy. But they found a way for me. And you don’t understand that until you get older and have kids of your own. The sacrifices… https://t.co/v1w1y7gGzF pic.twitter.com/RHulvKZVrm
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 24, 2026
Here’s Lavonte David’s full opening statement in announcing his retirement, getting emotional as he talked about his late parents and his daughter. pic.twitter.com/dE8sr0QcSQ
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) March 24, 2026
