Buccaneers face significant offseason losses with departures of David and Evans

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 9:55 PM

Last updated Jul 29, 2026

Buccaneers face significant offseason losses with departures of David and Evans
Summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been identified as facing the greatest offseason departures in the NFC South as they enter 2026. Bleacher Report highlights the retirements of linebacker Lavonte David and wide receiver Mike Evans as critical losses that could impact the team's competitiveness. David, a 14-season veteran, has been a defensive cornerstone, while Evans holds franchise records in receiving yards, receptions, and touchdowns. The Buccaneers have signed linebacker Alex Anzalone, added Christian Rozeboom in free agency, and drafted Josiah Trotter to bolster their defense, while look to players like Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin to step up in the receiving corps. Despite these changes, Tampa Bay remains in contention for the NFC South title after competing until the last week of the previous season.

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Status Watch
  • Tampa Bay lost Lavonte David and Mike Evans this offseason
  • David was a key player for 14 seasons; Evans had a 12-year career
  • Alex Anzalone and Christian Rozeboom signed to strengthen defense
  • Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin expected to lead receiving unit
  • Buccaneers stayed competitive until the final week last season
Latest Updates
  • 9:55 PMYahoo SportsBucs considered to have biggest offseason departure in the NFC South
What they're saying
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Bleacher Report believes the Buccaneers suffered the NFC South's most significant offseason departures heading into 2026.

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