Bobby Wagner With The Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers closed the book on one of the most storied careers in franchise history this offseason.

Lavonte David, the heartbeat of the Bucs’ defense for over a decade, announced his retirement after 15 seasons, every single one of them in Tampa Bay. In a league defined by movement, mercenary contracts, and franchise-hopping, David’s loyalty was a rare and beautiful anomaly.

His retirement leaves a massive void. Replacing a franchise lifer, a player who defined a standard, and was a true staple as a veteran on defense.

Did the Buccaneers Have a Good Free Agency?

The Bucs moved quickly and deliberately in the 2026 free agency period, though not in the blockbuster fashion that fanbase optimists were hoping for.

The biggest addition at linebacker was Alex Anzalone, who brings familiarity with the Tampa area, he’s spent every offseason with his family in the region since 2017, and a reunion with new signing Al-Quadin Muhammad, who played alongside him previously.

On the defensive line, the Bucs brought in A’Shawn Robinson to fill the void left by Logan Hall, who departed for the Houston Texans. Robinson is a physical, tone-setting presence who will line up alongside nose tackle Vita Vea, giving the interior of Tampa’s defense a formidable look against the run.

They also added edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad on a one-year, $4 million deal with incentives that can push his earnings to $6 million — a bargain for a player who posted a career-high 11 sacks with the Lions last season.

The offense wasn’t ignored either: running back Kenneth Gainwell arrived on a two-year deal to complement Bucky Irving in the backfield, bringing 73 receptions and a 4.4-yard career rushing average with him, while Jake Browning was brought in as a capable backup for Baker Mayfield.

Tight end Cade Otton also re-signed on a three-year extension, providing continuity in a new offensive system under coordinator Zac Robinson.

The Bucs also added linebacker Christian Rozeboom, who recorded 122 total tackles, 2.0 sacks, and an interception for the Panthers last season. He was one of just five linebackers in the NFL to reach those numbers simultaneously.

The Bobby Wagner Question

One name that has floated around as a potential Lavonte David replacement is Bobby Wagner, the veteran linebacker who was drafted just 11 picks ahead of David back in 2012. Wagner has had a likely Hall of Fame career, but time catches everyone.

His coverage grades have dropped significantly, sitting at 51.1, reflecting the loss of the speed the position demands. He still brings value as a run stuffer, but so does Anzalone.

The Draft Is the Real Answer

The free agency activity this offseason tells a clear story. As one analysis put it, players like Anzalone, Gainwell, Robinson, and Muhammad will be relied on heavily in 2026, but none of them represent long-term answers at their respective positions.

They are placeholders, smart, calculated bridge signings while the Buccaneers prepare to invest in youth through the draft.

Tampa Bay holds the 15th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23rd. Based on how they’ve approached this offseason, expect them to hit the defensive side of the ball hard and early.

Lavonte David cannot be replaced by one player or one signing. He was one of a kind. But the Buccaneers are building deliberately — honoring his legacy by refusing to rush and trusting that the right answer is still to come.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Who will replace Lavonte David in the starting lineup?

While no single player can replace David’s legacy, the Buccaneers signed veterans Alex Anzalone and Christian Rozeboom to fill the void at linebacker. Anzalone, who has strong ties to the Tampa area, is expected to step into a leadership role, while Rozeboom provides high-volume tackling production (122 tackles last season) to keep the defense stable.

Q: Will the Buccaneers Free Agency Help Todd Bowles?

Generally, no. Most of this year’s additions—including Al-Quadin Muhammad (one-year deal) and A’Shawn Robinson—are considered “bridge” signings. These veterans are intended to keep the team competitive in 2026 while the front office uses its 15th overall draft pick and future capital to develop younger, long-term anchors for the roster.

Bobby Wagner With The Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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