SirVocea Dennis Battling For Third Inside Linebacker Job
Tampa Bay Buccaneers fifth-round rookie linebacker SirVocea Dennis got ESPN.com's Jenna Laine's attention this offseason for a defense that has struggled to get interceptions. Dennis is known more for his pass-rushing ability than his coverage skills in college at Pittsburgh, but he had two pick-sixes during offseason practices -- one in rookie minicamp and one off quarterback Kyle Trask at mandatory minicamp. The 23-year-old will be battling for the third inside linebacker job at training camp this summer behind Devin White and Lavonte David. Dennis produced 36 tackles for loss and 15 sacks in his final three seasons at the collegiate level and could really become a nice player for Tampa if he continues to produce in coverage as well as a pass-rusher.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers reserve inside linebacker K.J. Britt has been overshadowed by rookie fifth-rounder SirVocea Dennis during offseason workouts. Dennis has made standout plays in coverage, including two pick-sixes and some pass breakups in rookie minicamp and organized team activities that were open to the media. Britt had his moments during mandatory minicamp as well. The two players will be fighting for the No. 3 linebacker role behind Lavonte David and Devin White, and it's a competition that's expected to run all the way through training camp. The 23-year-old Dennis also played special teams in college, and even if he wins a spot over Britt entering his rookie season, he figures to see more work on special teams in 2023.
