Lavonte David Passes Torch to Tykee Smith

0:00On March 25, Tampa Bay Buccaneer's linebacker, Levante David, has retired after 14 incredible years with the team. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most productive tacklers in franchise history, and a steady leader who mentored countless young players both on the field and in the locker room. With David hanging up his cleats and why receiver Mike Evans now headed to the 49ers this off season, the Bucks face a big shift in leadership. The team will lean on veterans like Chris Godwin, Baker Mayfield, and Tristan Wurfs on offense, plus Vita Veya, Antoine Winfield, Jr., and Yaya Diabai, on defense to step up. David specifically shouted out rookie safety and nickel-corner, Taiki Smith, as his top pick to carry the torch on defense. He called Smith, like a little brother, saying he took the young guy under his wing after noticing his drive to excel, right from the start. Smith fired back with gratitude on social media, thanking David for the huge impact over their two years together.

1:00In that time, the 23-year-old has already shown with 154 tackles, three picks, and three forced fumbles across, 29 games. As the Bucks rebuild their core, an endorsement like this from a legend could spark Smith's rise, helping guide the next era of Buccaneer football. I'm Cory with the story. That's your NFL News Today update, AI-powered and always on.