Tykee Smith Steps Up: Bucs' New Defensive Leader

0:00It's April 21st. This is NFL News Today, AI-powered stories from around the league. I'm Cory with the story. Tampa Bay Buccaneer Safety, Taiki Smith is stepping up big time after Lavante David's retirement left a leadership gap on defense. Entering his third year as the team's 89th pick from 2024, Smith spent two seasons soaking of wisdom from the 14-year vet who gave him the green light to take charge. Smith plans to lead differently, getting more vocal than team-made Antswan Winfield Jr. right from the jump during Monday's off-season workouts. He wants everyone locked in, knowing their roles cold before hitting the field together. David's stamp of approval carries weight in that locker room, and Smith credits the legend for teaching him to read plays like a book. Folks see him as a natural fit to fill that captain's spot alongside Winfield in Bidevaea. From the field, Smith stats climbed last season with 100 tackles, 2 sacks, and 13 passes defended, building off his rookie flash.

1:01That college sack total from Georgia hints at even more upside as he grows into an every-down force. With voluntary workouts underway and summer OTAs on deck, Smith's already commanding the group, setting the tone for a defense ready to roll without.