Lavonte David Weighing His Future, Falcons’ New Offensive Direction, and Derek Carr Leaves Door Open for Return
Lavonte David Taking His Time, But the Fire Still Burns
Fourteen seasons. Two missed games in the last four years.
Lavonte David has been the heart and soul of the Buccaneers’ defense for over a decade, and even at 35, he’s still playing at a level most linebackers would envy. But as he eyes a potential age-36 season, David isn’t rushing into any decisions.
“I’m just still thinking about it,” he said in a recent interview. And you can understand why. After a long, grueling season - physically and mentally - David is taking the time to reset before deciding whether to lace up the cleats again.
This isn’t about chasing a paycheck or padding a résumé. For David, it’s about one thing: can he still be one of the best players on the field?
“If I’m not thinking I’m the best out there on the field, there’s no point in me going out there to play,” he said. That’s the mindset of a true pro, someone who’s spent his entire career setting the standard in Tampa Bay’s locker room.
The good news for Bucs fans? David says the communication with the team is as strong as ever.
There’s mutual respect and open lines - no drama, no pressure. Just two sides waiting for the right moment to talk if and when the decision is made.
Physically, David says he feels good. The body’s holding up.
But mentally, he’s still getting to that place where he can fully commit to another season. And for a veteran who’s seen just about everything the league can throw at him, that mental edge is everything.
Falcons’ New Offensive Braintrust: Stefanski and Rees Bring Under-Center Identity to Atlanta
In Atlanta, a new era is taking shape - and it starts under center. Literally.
New head coach Kevin Stefanski brought offensive coordinator Tommy Rees with him from Cleveland, and the two are already aligned on what they want the Falcons’ offense to look like: a system rooted in under-center play, physicality, and precision.
“There are definite benefits of being under center,” Rees said. “That’s been a huge part of the identity of Kevin going back in his career. It’s been our identity as we worked together, and it’s something that we believe in.”
This isn’t just coach-speak. Rees and Stefanski are cut from the same cloth when it comes to offensive philosophy - and they’re not afraid to challenge each other to get better. That kind of relationship can be the difference between a good offense and a great one.
“I’m not afraid to challenge Kev on things, and Kev is not afraid to push back,” Rees added. “You can’t have people who try to see eye-to-eye on everything. You can’t have a ton of ego when you’re putting together a game plan.”
It’s a refreshing approach, especially for a Falcons team that’s been searching for offensive consistency in recent years. With Rees and Stefanski building a foundation based on shared vision and honest dialogue, Atlanta’s offense could be in for a much-needed reset.
In addition to the new leadership at the top, the Falcons are expected to add Wisconsin wide receivers coach Jordan Reid as assistant quarterbacks coach - a move that continues to shape the staff with young, detail-oriented minds.
Derek Carr: Retirement Isn’t the End - But It’s Not a Guarantee Either
Derek Carr may have stepped away from the game before the 2025 season, but he hasn’t closed the door entirely. After a year off to recover from significant rotator cuff injuries in his throwing arm, the former Saints quarterback says he’s open to a return - under the right conditions.
“Would I do it? Yes.
Would I do it for anybody? Absolutely not,” Carr said on his podcast alongside his brother, David Carr.
This isn’t about sentimentality or chasing stats. Carr made it clear: if he comes back, it’s because he’s healthy - and because there’s a legitimate shot at winning a Super Bowl.
That’s a high bar, but it’s also a realistic one for a veteran who’s been through the highs and lows of the NFL grind. Carr’s not looking to be a backup or a bridge. If he returns, it’ll be for a team that’s ready to compete - and needs a quarterback who’s been there, done that.
For now, he’s still on the sidelines. But if the right situation comes along, don’t be surprised if Carr picks up the headset and helmet one more time.
Final Word
From Lavonte David’s introspective offseason to the Falcons’ offensive reboot and Derek Carr’s potential return, the NFC South is quietly full of storylines worth watching. Veterans making tough decisions, new coaches laying blueprints, and quarterbacks leaving the door cracked open - this division may not be the flashiest, but it’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing as we head deeper into the offseason.