Buccaneers To Prioritize Extension For LB Lavonte David After Draft

Buccaneers GM Jason Licht told reporters on Thursday that signing LB Lavonte David to a long-term contract will be among their top priorities “after the draft,” per Roy Cummings.

David, 25, is in the final year of his four-year, $3.472 million rookie contract that included just $1.754 million guaranteed. He stands to make a base salary of $738,418 for the 2015 season to go along with a $125,000 workout bonus.

This is an interesting situation, given that David would almost certainly cash in big time next year, which means unless the Buccaneers are willing to meet his asking price, he could wait until next year to maximize his leverage.

A good example of this is Packers WR Randall Cobb, who had a great deal of leverage with Green Bay before he agreed to a four-year, $40 million contract last month.

In 2014, David appeared in 14 games for the Buccaneers and recorded 44 tackles, one sack, four forced fumbles, a recovery and three pass defenses. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 7 outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense out of qualifying 40 players.