The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ search for a new offensive coordinator just got a little more interesting - and a bit more urgent. One of their top targets, Todd Monken, is officially off the board. Monken is expected to join John Harbaugh’s staff with the New York Giants, ending any hopes of a reunion in Tampa.
Monken had recently interviewed in person with the Bucs, and by all accounts, the meeting went well - well enough to push him to the front of the line among the team’s candidates. But in a twist that caught more than a few around the league off guard, Monken is heading to New York, linking back up with Harbaugh, who was just hired as the Giants’ new head coach after his exit from Baltimore.
It’s not surprising to see Monken stick with Harbaugh - the two have a long-standing connection, and there were rumblings that part of Harbaugh’s departure from the Ravens stemmed from the organization’s reluctance to let Monken go. What is surprising, though, is that the Giants - a team that wasn’t even on the radar for Monken just days ago - ended up being the landing spot.
For the Bucs, it’s a setback, no doubt. Monken made a strong impression, and his potential return to Tampa Bay carried plenty of intrigue.
He was the offensive coordinator back in 2018 when the Bucs had the third-highest scoring offense in the league. Bringing him back to work with a group that includes young playmakers like Emeka Egbuka, Bucky Irving, and Jalen McMillan - alongside proven veterans Mike Evans and Chris Godwin - had the makings of something special.
But while Monken’s off the table, the cupboard is far from bare. The talent on this roster remains a major draw, and the Bucs’ OC job is still one of the most attractive openings in the NFL right now. Whoever steps into the role will inherit a dynamic group of weapons and a front office that’s clearly committed to finding the right fit.
So who’s next?
Mike McDaniel is now a name to keep a close eye on. He checks a lot of boxes - creative play-caller, offensive innovator, and someone who could potentially be groomed as a future head coach.
That last part matters, especially with Todd Bowles possibly entering his final stretch in Tampa. McDaniel might not just be the next OC - he could be the next man up.
Nate Scheelhaase is another candidate rising up the ranks, and Zac Robinson is still believed to be high on Tampa’s list. Both bring experience and upside, and both align with the Bucs’ clear preference for proven play-callers who can hit the ground running.
Let’s not forget: this isn’t the first time Tampa Bay has had to pivot during an offseason search. Liam Coen was in the mix before opting for the Jacksonville job, reportedly because he wasn’t interested in waiting a year for a potential head coaching opportunity. The Bucs may be playing the long game here, looking for someone who can lead the offense now and possibly the team later.
Losing out on Monken stings, especially considering the momentum that seemed to be building. But this isn’t a dead end - far from it. Tampa Bay still has a strong roster, a clear vision, and a high-profile opening that offensive minds around the league are eyeing.
The Monken chapter may be closed, but the Bucs’ search is far from over - and the next move could be the one that defines their offensive future.