The 2023 NFL season is expected to be a transition year for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they deal with a massive cap hit following their all-in approach in previous seasons. While that’s apparently something linebacker Devin White doesn’t want to be a part of, he seemingly won’t have a choice.
White, the fifth pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, requested a trade in April. The 25-year-old is unhappy with contract negotiations, which is partially fueling his desire to play elsewhere. Heading into a contract year with a projected fringe playoff contender, White is looking for a better opportunity.
- Devin White stats (2022): 124 total tackles, 16 QB hits, 5.5 sacks
Projected to be one of the top NFL free agents in 2024, White wants to become one of the highest-paid NFL linebackers. According to Jenna Laine of ESPN, the former All-Pro selection is seeking a multi-year deal between $18 and $20 million annually.
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It’s evidently not a price the Buccaneers are willing to pay. While White was one of the best off-ball linebackers in the NFL during the 2020 season, his inconsistent production, effort and discipline likely play a factor in Tampa Bay’s approach in negotiations.
- Devin White contract: $11.706 million fully guaranteed (2023), 2024 free agent
White finished the 2022 season rated as the 74th-best linebacker in the NFL by Pro Football Focus. Despite being one of the best athletes at his position, White allowed a 120.5 average passer rating when quarterbacks targeted him in coverage. He also missed 16 tackles and was one of the worst run-stopping linebackers in the league.
As White pushes to become one of the highest-paid players at his position and insists further on being traded to a team that will pay him, it seems neither will happen anytime soon.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Buccaneers’ general manager Jason Licht said the team has “no intention” of trading White and he expects him to be on the roster in 2023. Licht offered some supportive comments for the young linebacker but also hinted the team wants to see him play at a much higher level before paying him.
“We all have all the respect in the world for Devin. He’s done some great things for us and we look forward to more from him in the future. … If he has the type of year we think he’s capable of, we can hopefully put this to rest and everybody’s happy.”
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht on Devin White’s trade request, contract demands
Even if the Buccaneers were willing to trade White, it’s unlikely the team would receive a substantial return from a one-season rental. While the open market will decide White’s value next spring, his performance in the past two seasons would likely not be deemed as worthy of an $18 million AAV by NFL teams.
If White wants to receive the contract he is looking for, he’ll have to earn it this upcoming season with his performance. For as frustrated as he might be with Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers are his only option to prove himself in 2023.
