You be the Bucs GM: Linebackers
Lavonte David is due a big payday soon. JASON BEHNKEN/STAFF
Bucs linebacker Danny Lansanah returned two of his three interceptions for touchdowns last season.
Bucs linebacker Orie Lemon started three of the final five games and flashed some potential.Published: March 5, 2015 The Tribune analyzes the Bucs’ needs, position by position, leading up to the start of NFL free agency.Wednesday: QuarterbackThursday: LinebackerFriday: Running backSaturday: Offensive lineSunday: Defensive lineMonday: Receiver/tight endTuesday: Defensive back The NFL calendar officially flips to 2015 with the start of free agency. A three-day negotiating period begins Saturday, allowing teams and prospective free agents to begin the matchmaking process. On Tuesday, contracts can be signed. With at least $33 million in available salary cap space, the Buccaneers are expected to address a number of needs as head coach Lovie Smith and general manager Jason Licht look to fix the mistakes of 2014’s 2-14 season. For seven straight days, The Tribune and TBO.com will feature one position each day. We’ll provide analysis of the position and list the players to consider. So, here’s your chance, Bucs fans. Go to TBO.com and tell us what you would do.LINEBACKERMany of the splash plays turned in by Bucs linebackers in 2014 came from a surprising source. Danny Lansanah, signed as a free agent two years ago, excelled on the strong side, returning two of his three interceptions for touchdowns and ranking third on the club with 78 tackles. Lansanah stood out at a position that has historically generated few impact plays in Tampa Bay’s defensive scheme. Weakside LB Lavonte David led the Bucs in tackles (146), tackles for loss (17) and forced fumbles (4), but again failed to make the Pro Bowl. Mason Foster, a starter in the middle since his 2011 rookie season, will hit free agency and the Bucs need a quicker replacement who can cover downfield. Veteran depth is a problem, with Dane Fletcher also set to test the free-agent market.Bucs under contract for 2015Lavonte David — A big payday is coming soon for this defensive pillar.Danny Lansanah — Emerged as a big-time playmaker last season.Orie Lemon — Started three of the final five games and flashed some potential.Brandon Magee — Made six tackles on special teams.Bucs potential free agentsDane Fletcher — Made four starts in 2014, with 30 tackles and three sacks.Mason Foster — Former third-round pick should find a new home in free agency.Jason Williams — Contributed on special teams in the final three games.
David HarrisNFL potential free agentsDavid Harris — Veteran ILB had 124 tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles with the Jets last year.Bruce Carter — Only 27, he picked off five passes for the Cowboys in 2014.
Sean WeatherspoonSean Weatherspoon — First-round pick in 2010 has played seven games past two years due to injuries.Malcolm Smith — With outstanding athleticism, could blossom outside of Seattle.Brandon Spikes — Former Florida Gators standout still considered a big hitter at 27