Buccaneers linebacker among top NFL free agents in new CBS Sports ranking

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have one of the best players looking for a new home in free agency.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David celebrates after a stop during the fourth quarter of a NFC wild card playoff. | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and longtime linebacker Lavonte David have big decisions to make this offseason.

David, who turned 35 last month, is mulling his future and whether or not he should play next season. If he does, CBS Sports writer Pete Prisco believes he is one of the best players on the open market.

Jan 1, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) reacts after a play against the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

David still has value

"There is a chance this 35-year-old could retire, but he can still play if he decides to do so. He led the Bucs with 122 tackles last season and had 5.5 sacks. He doesn't run like he used to, so his coverage wasn't as good as in years past. If he does retire, his Canton case will begin," Prisco writes.

Regardless of whether or not David returns for 2025, he doesn't have much time left in his career. Therefore, the Bucs need to address the linebacker position this offseason to give Tampa someone David can teach or replace.

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