Bucs bring back defensive lineman William Gholston for an 11th season
TAMPA ― Defensive lineman William Gholston will return to the Bucs for an 11th season, but his longevity shows how at home he is in Todd Bowles’ defense.
Gholston, who will be 32 next week, agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Bucs Monday — one day before veterans report to training camp.
A fourth-round pick out of Michigan State in 2013, Gholston is second only to linebacker Lavonte David among the longest-tenured members of the team. David will be entering his 12th season in Tampa Bay.
After playing for five head coaches and at times being miscast in various defensive schemes, Gholston has thrived at defensive end in Bowles’ 3-4 alignment.
Last season, Gholston played in 43% of the Bucs’ defensive snaps and recorded 49 tackles. He did, however fail to register a sack for only the second time in his career. He combined for 7-1/2 sacks the previous two seasons.
Gholston will provide some veteran depth to a defensive line that added defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, a first-round pick from Pittsburgh.
A roster spot became available for Gholston when the team waived linebacker Jeremy Banks earlier in the day.
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