Jan. 9, 2026, 7:55 p.m. ET

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ decision to retain Todd Bowles as head coach reflects a commitment to continuity and long-term stability rather than reactionary change. Bowles has been a central figure in the organization’s recent success and remains a steady presence during a transitional period.

Before becoming head coach in 2022, Bowles served as Tampa Bay’s defensive coordinator from 2019 through 2021. That stretch included a Super Bowl championship and multiple deep playoff runs. While the team was led offensively by Tom Brady, Bowles’ defense has seen its share of highs and lows, but it has helped enough to win football games over his time in Tampa. His familiarity with the roster and organizational expectations carried smoothly into his head coaching role.

As head coach, Bowles guided the Buccaneers through the post-Brady transition without a collapse. Tampa Bay remained competitive in the NFC South, has won division titles, and stayed in the playoff conversation despite roster turnover and financial limitations. Though the Buccaneers didn’t win the NFC South title this season, the division seems like it will be up for grabs once again in the 2026 season, so why wouldn’t Tampa Bay

Injuries played a major role in how last season played out, particularly on offense, but noticeably on defense as the season progressed. Quarterback Baker Mayfield battled through an AC joint injury, while multiple key contributors on both sides of the ball missed time or played at less than full strength. Even so, the team remained semi-structurally sound and has now avoided a full rebuild this offseason. Bowles and whatever new coaching staff can begin to repair what remains of the 2025 ship and build on it to create a better, more consistent, and more stable one for the 2026 season.

Bowles has also overseen offensive coordinators who later earned head coaching opportunities in Jacksonville and Carolina, both of which are playoff teams this season. That development underscores his ability to lead, mentor, and maintain a professional coaching environment. If the man has done it once, he can do it again.

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Ultimately, retaining Bowles preserves continuity, accountability, and organizational knowledge as the Buccaneers continue shaping their future through his spyglass.