Tampa Bay Buccaneers Stick with Todd Bowles for 2026 Season

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have decided not to pursue new coaching options, including John Harbaugh, for the 2026 season. Instead, Todd Bowles will continue as the head coach, following discussions with the Glazer family, the team’s ownership.

According to reports, Bowles hinted that changes are on the horizon for the coaching staff, although he didn’t elaborate on specifics. After a tough second half of the season, which ended the team’s playoff hopes, it’s clear that adjustments are necessary.

This season started off promising for the Bucs, as they kicked things off with a 6-2 record. Many fans and analysts thought they were on track to clinch their fourth consecutive NFC South title. However, the Carolina Panthers ultimately took the title, thanks to tiebreaker rules, despite losing to the Buccaneers in the last game of the regular season.

The situation escalated when the Atlanta Falcons managed to upset the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17, leading to a dramatic shift in the standings.

There has been speculation about Bowles’ future, especially if the team fails to reach the playoffs. However, the Glazer family seems committed to giving Bowles at least another year to turn things around. Despite starting strong, the Bucs stumbled significantly in the latter part of the season, winning only two out of their last nine games, wrapping up the year with an 8-9 record.

In Bowles’ four years with the Bucs, the team has a record of 35-33, experiencing some divisional success but not advancing past the divisional round in those seasons. His best finish was a 10-7 record in 2024, which seems a bit less impressive now.

Of course, not all the blame rests on Bowles. The Buccaneers faced significant injuries that contributed to their struggles, particularly on the offensive line. Key players, including wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, dealt with injuries, and rookie running back Bucky Irving also missed several games.

Looking ahead, Tampa Bay is hoping that a reshuffle in the coaching staff, strategic free agency signings, and keeping their core players healthy will set them up for a better season in 2026.

As the NFC South shape shifts, it seems the competition will only get tougher next year, with the Panthers, Falcons, and Saints all looking to strengthen their rosters and challenge the Buccaneers.