June 21, 2026, 10:09 p.m. ET
PFF analyst Bradley Locker recently included Todd Bowles among six NFL head coaches entering the 2026 season on the hot seat.
The inclusion comes after a frustrating 2025 campaign that saw Tampa Bay miss the postseason despite opening the year 6-2. The Buccaneers ultimately finished 8-9, losing five of their final seven games and falling short of extending their streak of playoff appearances.
Locker acknowledged that Bowles has built a respectable résumé in Tampa Bay. Since taking over as head coach, Bowles has compiled a 35-33 record and guided the franchise to three NFC South titles in four seasons. However, Locker argued that last season’s collapse changed the conversation surrounding the veteran coach.
According to PFF, Tampa Bay struggled on both sides of the ball. The Buccaneers finished 23rd in rushing EPA per play, while the defense ranked 22nd in coverage grade and tied for 20th in explosive pass plays allowed. PFF also noted that quarterback Baker Mayfield battled injuries and posted a 64.8 passing grade during the season.
The challenge facing Bowles in 2026 is that the roster looks significantly different than the one that opened last year. Franchise icons Mike Evans and Lavonte David are gone, while younger players such as Emeka Egbuka, Rueben Bain Jr., and veteran addition Alex Anzalone are expected to play major roles.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
What makes Locker’s argument noteworthy is that it goes beyond simply returning to the playoffs. He suggested that failing to post a winning record could put Bowles’ future in jeopardy, and another season without an NFC South title could create even more questions about the direction of the franchise.
The Buccaneers responded aggressively to last year’s shortcomings by rebuilding portions of the defense and adding young talent through the draft. Now the focus shifts to whether those moves are enough to get Tampa Bay back into postseason contention and secure Bowles’ future beyond 2026.