Despite Trade Deadline Closing, Dolphins Pass Rusher Still Linked to 49ers – San Francisco Determined to Bring Pro Bowl Superstar to Levi’s Stadium for 2026 NFL Season

The legendary linebacker, star of the Las Vegas Raiders and Super Bowl champion, has sent shockwaves through Buccaneers Nation by expressing his desire to return to Tampa Bay after becoming a free agent Tampa Bay, Florida – November 8, 2025 After leaving Tampa Bay, a Super Bowl champion and former cornerstone of the Buccaneers’ defense has sent shockwaves through Buccaneers Nation with an emotional confession — he wants to come home. After years of glory with other teams, the veteran admits one thing has never changed: his heart still belongs to Tampa Bay. A first-round pick in 2012, the former Pro Bowl linebacker was once the embodiment of toughness, discipline, and relentless spirit in the Buccaneers’ iconic red and pewter. During his five seasons with Tampa Bay, he wasn’t just a reliable defender — he was the heartbeat of the defense, inspiring his teammates through calm leadership and an unbreakable will to win. Buccaneers Rumors: Former Pro Bowl Linebacker, DPOY Could Reunite with Tampa Bay After leaving the team in 2017, he went on to win two Super Bowls and was named Defensive Player of the Year, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defenders of his generation. Yet despite all the titles and accolades, he says nowhere ever made him feel as at home as Tampa Bay. “I don’t need trophies. I don’t need money,” he said. “All I want is one more chance — to put that red jersey back on, walk out of the Raymond James Stadium tunnel, and hear the roar of the crowd. I miss the cannons, I miss the sunlight hitting the field, and the feeling of fighting for the pirate flag on my helmet. And if I have to give up everything to feel that again — I will.” Inside the Buccaneers locker room, his name is still spoken with reverence — a symbol of grit, heart, and pride. Antoine Winfield Jr., one of the team’s rising defensive stars, said: “He set the standard for all of us. When you watch his film, you understand what focus, sacrifice, and the heart of a true Buccaneer really mean.” Now, at 27, the veteran continues to train relentlessly every day, waiting for one call — just one — from Jason Licht’s office. One final chance to close his journey where it all began. For him, Tampa Bay has never just been a team.