The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are contemplating a contract extension for linebacker Lavonte David, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

David, who has been a stalwart in the middle of the Tampa Bay defense for eight seasons, is entering the final year of a five-year, $50-million deal.

The 30-year-old has been one of the game's most reliable outside linebackers over the past decade, recording an average of 126 combined tackles per season since debuting in 2012. He is also one of the game's most underrated players, having only been selected to one All-Pro First Team (2013), and one Pro Bowl (2015—and somehow not in 2013).

Furthermore, David has become the ensconced leader of the Tampa defense and a true fan-favorite. He didn't show any signs of slowing down in 2019, as he tallied 123 tackles—his most since 2015.

In 121 career starts, David has recorded 22.5 sacks, 116 tackles for loss, 21 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions, and 45 pass break-ups.

Understandably, the Buccaneers organization wants to keep him in Tampa for as long as possible.

With the additions of quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski to a talented group, head coach Bruce Arians and his Buccaneers enter the 2020 season with fresh aspirations of contending for a Super Bowl. If Tampa wants to become the first franchise in NFL history to win a Super Bowl title on their home field (the 2021 game will be played at Raymond James Stadium), they will need David to be the heart, soul, and leader of the defense.

Considering the linebacker's track record of durability and consistent performance, that probably isn't something the coaching staff is too concerned about.