Buccaneers legend Lavonte David formally announced his retirement on Tuesday, and during his 30-minute speech it became clear that he was deeply grateful for the sacrifices Lynette and Edward David made to help him succeed//
There were two moments during Lavonte David's 30-minute retirement press conference on Tuesday in which he choked up, trying but not fully succeeding to hold back tears. Predictably, they both came when he was talking about family.
David had family in the auditorium at the AdventHealth Center on Tuesday, including three of his five siblings – brothers Edward and Jerode and sister Shaterra – and his young daughter, Logan, who will turn four in May. Two of the most important people in his life, however, were only there in spirit. His mother, Lynette, passed away in March of 2016 and his father, Edward, passed away in July of 2021.
Just two minutes into his speech, David's attention turned to his parents and he accurately predicted that he would get emotional as he spoke about them.
"This is how I always get when I talk about my parents," he said. "Everybody has parents, but you don't understand how much they meant to me. You want to know why I grew up – it ain't easy, it ain't easy, but the found a way for me, and you don't understand that until you're older, until you have a kid of your own. The sacrifices they made for you, the things they did for you."
View images of LB Lavonte David's historic 14-year career as a Tampa Bay Buccaneer.
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 13: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Raymond James Stadium on September 13, 2015, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 42-14. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - MAY 4: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Rookie Mini Camp held at One Buccaneer Place on Saturday May 4, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. (Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 9: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on September 4, 2012, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 16-10. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 30: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Washington Redskins at Raymond James Stadium on September 30, 2012, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 24-22. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 2: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns an interception during the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 2, 2012, in Denver, Colorado. The Buccaneers lost 31-23. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 24: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the preseason game against the New England Patriots at Raymond James Stadium on August 24, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 30-28. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 23: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the St. Louis Rams at Raymond James Stadium on December 23, 2012, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 28-13. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - AUGUST 24: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium on August 24, 2013 in Miami Gardens, Florida. The Buccaneers won 17-16. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 8: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at Raymond James Stadium on August 8, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 44-16. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - AUGUST 24: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium on August 24, 2013 in Miami Gardens, Florida. The Buccaneers won 17-16. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 30: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on December 30, 2012, in Atlanta, Georgia. The Buccaneers won 22-17. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 29: Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Defensive Tackle Gerald McCoy #93, Linebacker Adam Hayward #57, Wide Receiver Mike Williams #19 and other members of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium on September 29, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 13-10. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 13: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium on October 13, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 31-20. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 29: Defensive Tackle Gerald McCoy #93 and Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a sack during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium on September 29, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 13-10. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 13: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during introductions of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium on October 13, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 31-20. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 11: Defensive End Adrian Clayborn #94, Linebacker Jonathan Casillas #52, Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Linebacker Mason Foster #59 and Defensive Tackle Gerald McCoy #93 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Raymond James Stadium on November 11, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 22-19. (photo by Jeff Griffith/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 8: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Buffalo Bills at Raymond James Stadium on December 8, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 27-6. (photo by Jason Parkhurst/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 15: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Raymond James Stadium on December 15, 2013, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 33-14. (photo by Jeff Griffth/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 16: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 comes out of the tunnel to flames and smoke during player introductions before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers preseason game against the Miami Dolphins at Raymond James Stadium on August 16, 2014, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 21-14 (photo by Matt Marriott/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 2: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers huddles with the defense before the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 2, 2014, in Cleveland, Ohio. The Buccaneers lost 22-17. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 4: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Defensive Tackle Gerald McCoy #93 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on October 4, 2015, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 37-23. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 22: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Fullback Jorvorskie Lane #46 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 22, 2015, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Buccaneers won 45-17. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 22: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns an interception for a touchdown during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 22, 2015, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Buccaneers won 45-17. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 6: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Raymond James Stadium on December 6, 2015, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 23-19. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 13: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the New Orleans Saints at Raymond James Stadium on December 13, 2015, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers lost 24-17. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
ST. LOUIS, MO - DECEMBER 17: Color rush uniform detail of Linebacker Lavonte David #54 the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 17, 2015, in St. Louis, Missouri. The Buccaneers lost 31-23. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
JULY 28, 2016 - TAMPA, FLORIDA: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signs autographs on Day 1 of training camp at One Buccaneer Place. (Photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
AUGUST 13, 2016 - TAMPA, FLORIDA: Linebacker Kwon Alexander #58, Linebacker Daryl Smith #51, and Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Day 12 of training camp at One Buccaneer Place. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 4: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns an interception for a touchdown during the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 4, 2016, in San Diego, California. The Buccaneers won 28-21. (photo by Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 12: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the New York Jets at Raymond James Stadium on November 12, 2017, in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 15-10. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
GREEN BAY, WI - DECEMBER 3: Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 3, 2017, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Buccaneers lost 26-20. (photo by Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 09, 2018 - Linebacker Lavonte David #54 during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. The Buccaneers won 48-40. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL- SEPTEMBER 05, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Defensive Tackle Ndamukong Suh #93 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during practice at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 12, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 20-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 29, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 (L), and Safety Mike Edwards #34 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (R) during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Buccaneers won the game, 55-40. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LONDON, UK - OCTOBER 13, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Buccaneers lost the game, 37-26. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LONDON, UK - OCTOBER 13, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Buccaneers lost the game, 37-26. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 12, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during a Color Rush shoot at Raymond James Stadium. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 18, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during Lavonte David's bowling fundraiser for Lavonte Legends and Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay at Pin Chasers Midtown. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
JACKSONVILLE, FL - DECEMBER 01, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field. The Buccaneers won the game, 28-11. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 30, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the Buccaneers depart for the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars at TIAA Bank Field. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL- DECEMBER 06, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers unboxes his cleats for My Cause My Cleats with David, who designed his cleats, from Big Brothers/Sisters. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 13, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints at Mercedes Benz Superdome. The Buccaneers lost the game, 34-23. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 27, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. The Buccaneers won the game, 28-10. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 27, 2020 - Quarterback Tom Brady #12 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. The Buccaneers won the game, 28-10. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 04, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 38-31. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 18, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sacks Aaron Rodgers during the game between the Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 38-10. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 08, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' locker before the game between the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers lost the game, 38-3. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 26, 2020 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Defensive Lineman William Gholston #92 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions at Ford Field. The Buccaneers won the game, 47-7. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 03, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 44-27. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
GREEN BAY, WI - JANUARY 24, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the NFC Championship game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The Buccaneers won the game 31-26. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
GREEN BAY, WI - JANUARY 24, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the NFC Championship game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The Buccaneers won the game 31-26. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
GREEN BAY, WI - JANUARY 24, 2021 - Quarterback Tom Brady #12 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the NFC Championship game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. The Buccaneers won the game 31-26. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - February 04, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Super Bowl LV jersey. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - February 07, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' locker before Super Bowl LV between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccanerers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 31-9. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - February 07, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before Super Bowl LV between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccanerers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 31-9. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - February 07, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during Super Bowl LV between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccanerers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 31-9. Photo By Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 07, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before Super Bowl LV between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccanerers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 31-9. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 07, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after Super Bowl LV between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccanerers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 31-9. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - February 10, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Super Bowl LV victory boat parade. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - July 22, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Super Bowl LV Ring Ceremony at MidFlorida Amphitheater. Photo By Matt May/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
FOXBOROUGH, MA - October 03, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hands out game balls after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game 19-17. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 10, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won the game, 45-17. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LANDOVER, MD - November 14, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Football Team at FedEx Field. Washington Football Team won the game, 29-19. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 19, 2021 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Saints won the game, 9-0. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - October 02, 2022 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers lost the game, 41-31. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - October 27, 2022 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers lost the game, 27-22. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - October 31, 2022 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers works with students from Young Middle School and their mentors during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Youth Leadership program at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
MUNICH, DE - November 13, 2022 - Inside Linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi #53, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, and Linebacker Ulysses Gilbert #57 of The Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Allianz Arena. The Buccaneers won the game 21-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
MUNICH, DE - November 13, 2022 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Allianz Arena. The Buccaneers won the game 21-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - June 05, 2023 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during a production shoot for the Buccaneers' creamsicle uniform release. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - July 26, 2023 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during 2023 Training Camp practice at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - October 26, 2023 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Inside Linebacker Devin White #45 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 24-18. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SANTA CLARA, CA - November 19, 2023 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Francisco 49ers. The Bucs lost the game, 27-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
GREEN BAY, WI - December 17, 2023 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers. The Bucs won the game, 34-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - January 21, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and his daughter before the NFC Divisional Round game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs lost the game, 31-23. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - March 22, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after he signed his contract at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - June 26, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during 2024 Asset Shoot at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CINCINNATI, OH - August 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, Safety Christian Izien #29, Safety Tykee Smith #23, Running Back Rachaad White #1, Center Graham Barton #62 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers watching the Olympics before the Preseason game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals. The Bucs won the game, 17-14. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - August 23, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' locker before the preseason game between the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs won the game, 24-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - October 21, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs lost the game 31-41. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - November 10, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs lost the game 23-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - December 08, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs won the game 28-13. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - July 22, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers arrives for 2025 Training Camp. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - July 27, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with his daughter during 2025 Training Camp at AdventHealth Training Center. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - September 21, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the New York Jets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs won the game, 29-27. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SEATTLE, WA - October 05, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with fans after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks. The Bucs won the game, 38-35. Photo By Mike Fiechtner/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SEATTLE, WA - October 05, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks. The Bucs won the game, 38-35. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SEATTLE, WA - October 05, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks. The Bucs won the game, 38-35. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SEATTLE, WA - NOVEMBER 03, 2019 - Director of Football Operations Shelton Quarles and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks at Century Link Field. The Buccaneers lost the game in overtime, 40-34. Photo by Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 26, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 23-3. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - December 11, 2025 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons during a regular season game at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs lost the game, 29-28. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - January 03, 2026 - The Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers play a regular season game at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs won the game, 16-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - January 03, 2026 - The Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers play a regular season game at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs won the game, 16-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - December 07, 2025 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints during a regular season game at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs lost the game, 24-20. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
SEATTLE, WA - NOVEMBER 03, 2019 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks at Century Link Field. The Buccaneers lost the game in overtime, 40-34. Photo by Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TAMPA, FL - January 03, 2026 - The Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers play a regular season game at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs won the game, 16-14. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Edward got to see his son win Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers five months before he died, and watched him graduate from Nebraska three months after the Super Bowl. That was of some comfort to Lavonte because desperately wanted to share those occasions with at least one of his parents to show them what their sacrifices had wrought.
"I just think about my dad, the sacrifices he made," said David. "He was never the breadwinner in our family, but for some reason him and my mom made it work, and their relationship lasted for so long. And when you saw how they was compatible with each other, and how they made our lives easier. We had one car; my mom took the car to work and my dad used to take me to practice on his handlebars, on a bike. We used to walk sometimes, and as a kid you were like, 'Dang, man, that walk was a far walk.' You realize it's a sacrifice you've got to make to help your son and kids' dreams come true, and they did it."
His mother's passing prior to the Buccaneers' 2016, his fifth in the NFL, was a little harder for David to absorb. At that point, he hadn't tasted much team success – the Bucs from 2012-16 averaged a little less than five wins per season – but he was still highly motivated to succeed in order to give back to Lynette for everything she had given to him. Her death shook his motivation to the core.
"There was a point in my career when my mom passed away in 2016, I didn't care about football no more," said David somberly. "I didn't want to play no more. I didn't care for it anymore. I wanted to just give it up, because honestly I didn't have a reason no more. I was doing everything I was doing because I wanted to make all her dreams come true because she helped me make my dreams come true the day that I got drafted. From then on I was just working to make her life easier, make her life happy. And the day that she passed away, I thought I lost it all."
Gerald McCoy, who was David's teammate with the Buccaneers from 2012-2018, was one of many current and former Buccaneers players in the auditorium on Thursday. At this point of the press conference, McCoy leaned forward in his chair and nodded sympathetically, obviously sharing in David's emotion.
"Luckily, I had friends [and] family," said David of getting past his thoughts of abandoning his NFL career. "Gerald was one of those guys who came to my side because he went through that earlier in his football journey. He helped me get through it."
After Lynette's death, David began displaying a photograph of his mother prominently in his locker room. He found that, despite his original despair, that he did have a reason to keep going in order to honor his mother and keep her at the center of his thoughts.
"It was definitely a source of comfort and inspiration," said David of the photograph. "I always look at that picture and say to myself, 'Keep going, keep striving. Keep making her proud.' It's the first thing I look at every time I look at my locker, and that's just what it brings. For me to continue playing, for me to continue to play this game at a high level, I know I'm making her proud and all her sacrifices didn't go null and void. She's one of those people who is always supportive, always proud. I could always hear her say, 'That's my baby.' Even as a grown man, calling me her baby. We had that type of relationship; I acted like a baby when I was around her."
Now David is on the other side of the equation, and he says being a dad to Logan is one of the main aspects of the new path he will be forging after retiring from football. He said people had always told him that having a daughter, specifically, would be a life-changing experience, but he always assumed he'd want a son.
"Being a man, I was like, 'Man, I want to have a son," said David. "I want to have a son so he can follow in my footsteps and I can help him be a man.' But having a girl helped me become a man, helped me understand what's important in life. She definitely does that daily. I'm thankful – she doesn't understand right now but she'll look back and see that this is an incredible journey, this is an incredible time in my life, to be able to raise her to be an incredible young woman and be the best person in the world. Be kind, be generous, be loving, be caring to people you come across. I see it in her already and I just hope that I can continue to do that."
