Could the Bucs target a veterab LB to make an impact in 2026?
Could the Bucs pursue a veteran linebacker in free agency after the retirement of Lavonte David?
The Bucs are going to be missing linebacker Lavonte David in the upcoming season and beyond. Sadly, there may not be a permanent fix for them right away in the NFL Draft, but could a band-aid at least be available to them in free agency? In fact, could there even be a decent value option for them to consider that would be available from a veteran?
Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport wrote up several veterans who could be seen as difference makers for the upcoming season. One of those players was linebacker Bobby Wagner, who is still without a team late into free agency and ahead of the NFL Draft. The departure of David would make Wagner a prime replacement and give the team a leader in the middle of their defense.
Davenport discussed Wagner, writing, "Bobby Wagner has had an outstanding career in the NFL. A second-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks back in 2012, Wagner has been named to a whopping 10 Pro Bowls. He has been named a first-team All-Pro five times.
In all 14 of his professional seasons, Wagner has eclipsed 100 total tackles, including 162 in his second season with the Washington Commanders in 2025. Since 1994, only four players have more tackles than Wagner. No one currently playing in the NFL does.