It’s been a tough year for Bucs linebacker Devin White. Lofty expectations were set for White’s third year in the NFL, with many saying he’d be the league’s best linebacker by season’s end. Instead, White has struggled. The LSU product has missed tackles, blown coverage assignments and failed to match his pass rush production from a season ago. But, after watching him on Sunday, it appears Playoff Devin may be back.
White was all over the field in the first three quarters against Philadelphia, recording five tackles, three quarterback hits, a tackle-for-loss and a pass breakup. The return of Lavonte David may have aided White, who struggled without the veteran linebacker for a few weeks. David finished with just two tackles, but his leadership and communication were valuable.
WHITEHEAD + DEVIN WHITE 💀
Great play! #GoBucs pic.twitter.com/5kRJ8vSHLi
— AllThingsBucs (@AllThingsTBbucs) January 16, 2022
“I think (Lavonte returning) and [White] wasn’t trying to force it,” head coach Bruce Arians said. “I think when those guys are all out, [White] thinks he has to make every play. He gets caught up in it. But this one, just do your job. He was all over the field. It was one of his best games.”
The Bucs will need White to continue to be at his best moving forward. With over half the Tampa Bay offense injured and several defensive players working through injuries, the Bucs will lean on White to make plays. Last year, the fifth overall pick was outstanding in the playoffs. He made several game-changing plays and was consistently assignment sound. If White can channel that same focus again, it’ll give the Bucs a chance despite their injury concerns.
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About the Author: Jon Ledyard
Didn’t hurt we played the Eagles one dimensional offense. Glad he played better though. Lol. He’s been down right horrible at times this year for sure.
LB White played much better once he had his sidekick LB David back there playing next to him! Clearly, LB David has that calming effect that White needs to stay under control and on task! Going to take a another great effort this weekend. All able hands on board! Bucs got this!
You’ve been more critical on Devin White than the national perception has been. White received 1st team all pro consideration from voters this past week but reading your commentary one would believe White should be benched. I would agree that there’s room for improvement with White but can we cool it with the Bust Label talk.
Don’t think Jon ever called him a bust he just said he wasn’t playing at the elite level a number 5 overall pick should play at which he wasn’t.
I read your comment and it reminded me of one of my favorite movie lines of all times, from “The Outlaw Josey Wales”. Clint Eastwood, as Josey Wales, is talking to his Indian chief companion, Lone Watie as played by the great Chief Dan George:
Let’s not forget Devin White took over last year’s divisional game against the Saints. He’s ready to do it again.
From ur lips to God’s ears Buc76! Our defense will put up a little more resistance than the Cardinals did! Rams r in for a dog fight!
Knowing that the Eagles prefer to run the ball with Jalen Hurts leading the way, I thought it fitting to wear my #45 WHITE jersey to the game and he didn’t disappoint. He and Jordon Whitehead came to play and set the tone early.