Compete.

There’s no question that Bucs iconic linebacker Lavonte David surpassed his hopes and dreams with the franchise.

David has confessed when he was drafted by the Bucs, he had no expectations of starting, forget winning a Super Bowl or trying Derrick Brooks’ franchise record in tackles or even being in a discussion as a Hall of Famer.

When appearing on “Speakeasy” hosted by Emmanuel Acho, seen weeknights on YouTube, David was asked how he played at such a high level for so long.

David said for him it was simple: Always stay hungry.

“Honestly bro, I never got comfortable,” David said. “I always kept that same edge that I had my rookie year.

“I used to tell [younger teammates at OTAs], I’m coming in just like y’all. We’re all going to learn this thing together. And may-the-best-man-win type of mentality.

“It was always a competition for me. The past couple of years, people were like, ‘Man, why are you still playing?’ I always said I wanted to show these young boys I can keep up with them.

“That was my mentality. I just wanted to compete.”

And compete he did. When you tie first-ballot Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks in tackles (per one specific data service), that’s what Joe calls competing.

David is going to be missed, man.

Flash poll posted at 4:14 a.m.