The Bucs know that the days of Lavonte David leading their defense are numbered which means they need to find his replacement.
Many folks assumed they would draft someone in April’s NFL Draft, but they never added a linebacker in any of the seven rounds over the three days. Instead, it seems they think they have the answer on the roster in the form of SirVocea Dennis. The 2023 fifth-round NFL Draft pick missed some time in 2024 but is now ready to hit the ground running for 2025 as he takes the next step in his career.
When speaking to the media, coach Todd Bowles was asked about the former Pittsburgh Panther having a larger role on the defense and he all but confirmed it with his comments.
“The fact that he’s been here two years – he understands how it works and what to do. Just the experience and him being out on the field every day and staying healthy will help him a great deal. I don’t worry about him from the game getting too big for him standpoint. He understands everything, he knows how to play, and right now, he’s in the best shape he’s been in since he’s been here.”
Bowles also commented on how Dennis has been the most impressive player at OTAs for the Bucs thus far which furthers the idea of him carving out a larger role.
Lavonte David is around for one more year at a minimum, so getting him to play a full season alongside Dennis to get him well adjusted would do wonders for his development. Todd Bowles and his staff know that, now, they just need to see that materialize on the field.