Tackles-for-loss machine.
When a linebacker plays above the rim for 14 years without a major injury, naturally, the man is going to pile up statistics.
Case in point for the recently retired Lavonte David: He is tied with Derrick Brooks for the most tackles in Bucs history with 1,714. Pretty impressive.
But that statistic is not what turns on David himself. Appearing this week on “Up and Adams” hosted by Kay Adams and seen on FanDuel TV, David cited another statistic that is known far more for defensive linemen and pass rushers than linebackers.
“The one that really sticks out the most to me is the tackles for loss,” David said. “The 177 titles for loss only because when you look at the list, it’s nothing but D-linemen that’s on the list.
“There are guys who always just strictly rush the passer or got a chance too. But their way is easy. But for me being an off the ball linebacker my whole career, it just goes to show my knowledge of the game, my understanding of the defense that I’m playing in, and the understanding of what the offense is trying to do.
“It is showing my ability … to play downhill.”
Yes, David is No. 4 on the all-time list with 177, tied with Von Miller. Only Terrell Suggs, Calais Campbell and J.J. Watt have more.
David makes a great point if you ask Joe. Think about it: to have a ton of tackles for loss, a linebacker not only has to be in position that often to make a play, but he also has to be able to read and react with lightning speed.
Talk about a heat-seeking missile.
The next inside linebacker closest to David is Brian Urlacher at No. 17.
Pretty, pretty impressive to Joe.
Lavonte David says being 4th all-time in TFL means the most to him out of all his accolades 😤@LavonteDavid54 | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/5QXoW1nDkU
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 26, 2026