Nov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmets against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Buccaneers fan-favorite returns to training camp after injury

Originally posted on Tampa Bay Buccaneers on SI
By Collin Haalboom | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 12:30 PM ET

Tampa Bay Buccaneers ' star veteran linebacker Lavonte David has returned to practice after being sidelined for several days due to injury.

On Thursday July 31st, Bucs' head coach Todd Bowles told the media that David should be considered day-to-day as he was dealing with leg soreness.

Lavonte David has been out for two days in a row, and Todd Bowles says that his leg is just sore and that he’s day to day as it stands.

He also said that Trey Palmer is dealing with a hamstring and the team is being cautious.
— River Wells (@riverhwells) July 31, 2025

Just less than a week later, on Tuesday morning, David returned to the practice field at One Buccaneer Place with his teammates.

Here’s the running backs against the linebackers in a drill — Lavonte David is back in action here today, too. pic.twitter.com/zkFeZMiJFN
— River Wells (@riverhwells) August 5, 2025

Many people were surprised that the Buccaneers did not make any significant additions to their inside linebacker room during the offseason. When the team announced that Lavonte David would be returning on another 1-year contract to remain with the team, Bucs fans everywhere rejoiced. Not only is David's performance essential for Todd Bowles' defense on Sundays, but he is also arguably the most trusted leader on the team and a valuable mentor to younger players during training camp.

David's presence at practice will be crucial for many young players on the defensive side of the ball, but none more than SirVocea Dennis, a player the Bucs drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 draft out of the University of Pittsburgh. Although Dennis' role with the team has been limited due to injury, the team is extremely high on his ability. Getting reps alongside David — a player who has the accolades worthy of a Hall of Fame induction one day — will be invaluable for Dennis as he aims to realize his potential in the NFL.