According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Bucs are close to re-signing defensive lineman Will Gholston. The move will bring Gholston back to Tampa Bay for his 10th season with the team since being drafted in the fourth round in 2013. This will be Gholston’s third contract with the team, a rarity for a rotational defensive lineman.

Quietly, Gholston has enjoyed a strong career in Tampa Bay. He has played in 136 games, including 78 starts, over his career. Gholston is the second-longest tenured Buc on the team behind linebacker Lavonte David. In nine seasons, the defensive tackle has 352 combined tackles, including 54 tackles for loss. Also, the 30-year old hasn’t missed a game since 2017.

For most of his career, Gholston was known as a run defender more than a pass rusher. In fact, he has only 19.5 sacks over his career. Gholston has even often come off the field on passing downs. But over the past two years, Gholston has become a much better rusher. Under defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, Gholston has compiled 7.5 sacks over the past two seasons. That includes a career-best 4.5 sack campaign last season.

Gholston Returning To Bucs Was Inevitable

Gholston was clear about his free agency plans when asked about finishing his career with the Bucs two months ago.

“It would mean everything to be honest with you,” Gholston said. “I love it here. This is home for me. Even listening and talking to guys who come in from different teams or left to different teams. I really wouldn’t know what to do outside of this place. I know the community here. The community knows me. I know the building, I know the staff. (Leaving is) nothing I really even think about.”

Bringing Gholston back into the fold solidifies one key running mate for Vita Vea. Bucs defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Steve McLendon are currently free agents. It remains to be seen if they’ll return to the roster this offseason.