The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have confirmed that head coach Todd Bowles will retain his position for the 2026 NFL season, despite the team's failure to reach the playoffs this year.
Glazer Family Backing Secures Bowles' Future
Following a disappointing end to the 2025 campaign, where the Bucs won only two of their final nine games, questions were raised about Bowles' future. This speculation intensified after the Baltimore Ravens parted ways with their long-time head coach, John Harbaugh. However, the Glazer family, owners of the franchise, have reaffirmed their support for Bowles. According to reports, Bowles met with the family on Tuesday to discuss his role, and they want him to continue leading the team.
A Season of Promise That Faded
The Buccaneers' season began brightly with a 6-2 record, and quarterback Baker Mayfield was even mentioned as a potential MVP candidate. However, the team's fortunes shifted dramatically in the second half. Mayfield battled a series of injuries and struggled to maintain his early form. Key offensive weapons, including wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, along with running back Bucky Irving, also missed significant time due to injuries, derailing the team's momentum.
Despite the late-season collapse, Tampa Bay entered their final game with a chance to secure a playoff berth with a victory over the Carolina Panthers. They achieved that win, but their postseason hopes were crushed when results elsewhere went against them, specifically the Atlanta Falcons defeating the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints.
Coaching Changes Loom for 2026
While Bowles' job is safe, the franchise has confirmed there will be significant changes within his coaching staff ahead of the 2026 season. Bowles reportedly scheduled further interviews with coaching candidates on Wednesday. The 2026 season will mark his fifth year at the helm, following a recent three-year contract extension that runs through the 2028 season.
Under Bowles' leadership, the Buccaneers have won three NFC South titles. However, his overall regular-season record with Tampa Bay stands at 35 wins and 33 losses across four seasons. The organisation is now tasked with supporting Bowles in a staff overhaul to return the team to playoff contention next year.
