Buccaneers Leader Speaks Out On Potential Breakout Stars

Buccaneers Leader Speaks Out On Potential Breakout Stars originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Lavonte David has always been one of the underrated defensive players in football. A star linebacker and captain of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense, David has seen the good and bad of the organization over the decade.

As the team prepares for another Super Bowl run in 2025, David is set to be a key part both on and off the field.

He won’t be alone, though.

Speaking as a guest on the Mina Kimes podcast, David explained which young defenders on the current Buccaneers team are in line for a breakout role. David, in his mind, picked three.

“[Cornerback] Zyon McCollum. [Outside linebacker] Yaya Diaby. [Defensive lineman] Calijah Kancey,” David said. “For those guys, they know it’s time to turn it up a notch. You’ve seen a glimpse of it already, but I think those guys are gonna take it to a whole ‘nother level.

“Just because the way they work, how willing they are to learn, how willing they are to be great — when you see that out of young players at early stages, it’s incredible.”

Of the three players listed, Kancey is probably the most likely breakout candidate on a good defensive line. The former Pitt product recorded 7.5 sacks last season and is in line for another big year in 2025.

There are plenty of reasons for optimism here. … starting with the Bucs’ track record of NFC South success.

Tampa Bay’s defense should be far improved from last season. Having a healthy David will help, but it is the development of their young stars that is the biggest reason why.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.

Buccaneers Leader Speaks Out On Potential Breakout Stars

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