Bucs Strengths And Weaknesses: ILB
Pewter Report analyzes each position’s strengths and weaknesses in Tampa Bay, as the Bucs attempt to three-peat as NFC South champions.
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
Offensive Line
Defensive Line
Outside Linebackers
Next up are Tampa Bay’s inside linebackers, a group that features two of the league’s most athletic ‘backers in Lavonte David and Devin White. When they’re on top of their game, the tandem of David and White form one of the most formidable duos in the NFL. While David turned 33 this offseason, he’s still solid and actually grades out higher than White, who turned 25 this offseason.
White wanted a contract extension this offseason, but the Bucs refused and he requested to be traded. The team denied that request and is making White play on his fifth-year option. He’s set to be paid $11.706 million this year, which is a substantial raise and pays him in the top 12 linebacker salaries in 2023.
David was re-signed for one year at $4.5 million, which is an absolute bargain considering he made $12.5 million the year prior. The Bucs lack proven depth behind these two veteran starters, but there is promise in a couple of rookie inside linebackers.
