Feb. 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m. ET
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continued reshaping their offensive staff this offseason by bringing in Chandler Whitmer as their new quarterbacks coach, and the move comes with some built-in familiarity.
Whitmer isn’t new to working with Bucs offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. The two spent time together with the Atlanta Falcons, giving Tampa Bay an already-established connection between its play-caller and quarterbacks coach. That shared background should help the offense get up to speed quickly and aim to replicate the multiple top-10 categories they achieved in Atlanta.
A former college quarterback, Whitmer brings a strong understanding of the position from a player’s perspective. His coaching style is centered on footwork, timing, decision-making, and reading defenses, rather than on arm strength alone. Since moving into coaching, he’s worked closely with quarterbacks on film study, game planning, and on-field development, earning a reputation as a clear communicator and strong teacher.
This past season, Whitmer played a key role in developing Fernando Mendoza, who showed noticeable growth throughout the year. Mendoza’s improvement in poise, processing, and command of the offense stood out, and Whitmer’s hands-on approach was a big part of that development. That experience matters for a Buccaneers team that places a premium on quarterback growth and consistency.
The idea is to get the most out of Baker Mayfield, who started the 2025 season on an MVP-level pace before injuries took their toll.
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Whitmer also brings a modern mindset to the role, something the Bucs have hammered home in their search for their future coaching staff at every level. Reuniting with Robinson will bring continuity and a foundation in place to hit the ground running as opposed to growing pains, and if things go well, could move into a promotional coaching role.