The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost one of their leaders when Lavonte David retired, but the team may not have to worry. Tykee Smith is entering his third year, ready to embrace a new leadership role and succeed David.
"Lavonte David gave his seal of approval, and obviously, Lavonte David's word is gold in that building," Matt Matera said on the April 9 episode of the "Pewter Report" podcast.
Smith learned under David for two seasons, watching how the 14-year veteran prepared daily. He said he thought David would know what play the opposing team was running before it happened.
Now stepping into a role his former teammate manned for 12 of his 14 seasons, Smith said his style would be more vocal than his teammate, Antoine Winfield Jr., and that started in Monday's offseason workouts.
"We try to start that early, once we're able to get on the field and do some extra football stuff," Smith said during media availability. "That's going to be the biggest thing. Making sure everybody's on one page and making sure everybody knows what they got to do."
Tampa Bay's 89th pick in 2024 is not only preparing to be a leader; he also said he's building off his continued growth.
Smith increased his totals across the board last season, excluding forced fumbles and interceptions. The 5-foot-10 safety recorded 100 tackles (61 solo), two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one interception and 13 passes defended.
He had three forced fumbles and two interceptions in his rookie year. Smith did not record a forced fumble and had one fewer interception last season.
His two career sacks last season could be an untapped part of his skill set that Tampa Bay could utilize next season. Smith finished with five career sacks in college, the final four coming in his last two seasons at Georgia.
The former Bulldog credited the growth of his play style to the coaching staff's trust in his rookie year, which led to Smith becoming a starter in his sophomore season.
"For me to make that big jump to safety and be an every-down player in year two, I think that helped me tremendously," Smith said.
Although Smith's time in the league has been short, he has improved every season, and the next step could be helping command the defense.
David, Winfield and Vita Vea were the defensive team captains in 2024 and 2025. However, with David hanging up his cleats and Buccaneer jersey, his open spot could go to Smith.
The Buccaneers began voluntary workouts on Monday and as they ramp up throughout the summer for OTAs and mandatory minicamp, Smith is taking every opportunity to step up as a leader for the team.
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