Todd Bowles is back at the helm for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2026, facing significant pressure after a disappointing end to the 2025 season. Despite a strong start with three straight NFC South titles and a .529 regular-season winning percentage, the Bucs stumbled, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019 after losing seven of their last nine games.
Tampa Bay's management stands by Bowles, citing his proven track record, organizational stability, and player support as key reasons for his return. Bowles, now the longest-serving Bucs coach since Jon Gruden, signed a contract extension through 2028 before last season. However, he's widely seen as one of the coaches under the most scrutiny entering the new season.
Reclaiming the South
For Bowles and the Buccaneers, the goal is clear: win 11 games, reclaim the NFC South crown, and make a deep playoff run. Achieving this would validate Bowles' extension and suggest that 2025 was merely a hiccup.
Yet, if the Bucs fall short of double-digit wins but still manage a playoff appearance, Bowles' future becomes murkier. While making the playoffs would bolster his case, advancing further in the postseason is crucial, given the team's 1-3 playoff record under his leadership.
Risky Moves
Midseason coaching changes are becoming more common in the NFL, with 11 coaches dismissed midseason since 2022. These changes typically occur around Week 7, but they rarely lead to immediate success, with teams going 25-58 post-firing since 2022. The Buccaneers, however, are not known for hasty decisions, having let go of only one coach midseason in their history-Ray Perkins in 1990.
Possible Plan B?
The Buccaneers might let the season unfold before deciding on Bowles' future. However, they have a potential backup plan in Zac Robinson, the former Falcons' offensive coordinator, now with Tampa Bay.
Robinson, part of the Sean McVay coaching tree, aims to rejuvenate an offense that was top-3 in the NFL as recently as 2024. With a talented roster and quarterback Baker Mayfield still in the mix, Robinson could be a viable head coaching candidate if things go south.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the pressure will mount if the Bucs start slowly. The key question remains: how many losses can Bowles withstand before General Manager Jason Licht considers a change, especially with a promising candidate like Robinson waiting in the wings?