TAMPA, Fla. – The linebackers are up as we continue our position-by-position look at where the Buccaneers stand after minicamp and before training camp.

This unit has a chance to be very good and it all starts with Lavonte David. He’s one of the best outside linebackers in the league, and he plays the same position (weak side) as Bucs’ all-time great Derrick Brooks. David’s surrounding cast should be better than last year.

The Bucs wanted to get better in pass coverage at middle linebacker and they did by replacing Mason Foster with Bruce Carter, who had five interceptions for Dallas last season. Strongside linebacker Danny Lansanah finally got a chance to play last season and made several big plays.

The starters seem set with David, Carter and Lansanah. But rookie Kwon Alexander has looked good in offseason workouts and can play in the middle or on the strong side.

The Bucs probably will carry five or six linebackers. Khaseem Greene, who was picked up from the Bears in the offseason, will compete with Orie Lemon and Jason Williams for the final spot or two. Greene, Lemon and Williams all have the ability to help on special teams.