The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have fired offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard after just one season, marking the fourth OC change in as many years under head coach Todd Bowles. With the offense regressing sharply in 2025, the move signals a critical juncture for a franchise that has dominated the NFC South but struggled in the playoffs. Who’s next, and can they revive Baker Mayfield’s efficiency?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have fired offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard and quarterbacks coach Thad Lewis, according to multiple reports. The move comes after a single season in which the Bucs’ offense ranked 21st in total yards (320.4 per game), a steep decline from their third-ranked unit in 2024 (399.5 per game).
Grizzard was head coach Todd Bowles’ fourth offensive coordinator in four seasons, a staggering turnover rate that underscores the franchise’s ongoing struggle to stabilize its offensive identity. With Bowles’ job secure for 2026, the search for a fifth OC begins—a critical hire that could define the team’s trajectory.
The Offense’s Sharp Decline: What Went Wrong?
The Buccaneers’ offensive regression in 2025 was stark. After averaging nearly 400 yards per game in 2024, the unit plummeted to 21st in the league, averaging just 320.4 yards. The drop-off raises questions about scheme fit, play-calling, and the development of quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks consistency.
Key issues included:
- Inconsistent passing game: Mayfield’s completion percentage and yards per attempt dipped, despite a strong supporting cast.
- Red-zone struggles: The Bucs ranked in the bottom half of the league in red-zone efficiency, a critical factor in close games.
- Lack of explosive plays: The offense failed to generate enough big gains, limiting scoring opportunities.
Grizzard, who joined the Bucs in 2024 as passing game coordinator before being promoted to OC, was unable to sustain the momentum built under previous coordinator Liam Coen. His dismissal reflects the urgency to revitalize an offense that has underperformed relative to its talent.
Who’s Next? Potential Candidates to Replace Grizzard
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that two names are already emerging as top candidates:
- Nate Scheelhaase (Rams passing game coordinator): A rising star in offensive coaching, Scheelhaase has played a key role in the Rams’ resurgent passing attack under Sean McVay. His experience with quarterback development could be a major asset for Mayfield.
- Todd Monken (Ravens OC): A veteran play-caller with a proven track record, Monken has overseen one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenses in Baltimore. His ability to adapt schemes to personnel could be a perfect fit for Tampa Bay’s versatile roster.
Both candidates bring fresh perspectives and a history of success, but the Bucs must prioritize stability and long-term vision. The next OC will need to maximize Mayfield’s strengths while integrating young playmakers like Rachaad White and Trey Palmer.
The Bowles Factor: Can He Survive Another OC Change?
Since taking over as head coach in 2022, Todd Bowles has cycled through four offensive coordinators: Byron Leftwich, Dave Canales, Liam Coen, and now Josh Grizzard. While Bowles’ defensive acumen is undeniable, the constant turnover on offense has raised concerns about his ability to foster continuity.
With a 35-33 record in four seasons, Bowles has led the Bucs to four straight NFC South titles but only one playoff win. The pressure is mounting to deliver deeper postseason runs, and the next OC hire will be pivotal in determining whether Bowles can elevate the team beyond divisional success.
Fan Reactions and the Road Ahead
Buccaneers fans have voiced frustration over the team’s offensive struggles and the lack of playoff progress. Many are calling for a more innovative, aggressive scheme that can unlock Mayfield’s potential and restore the Bucs’ status as a Super Bowl contender.
The front office must act swiftly to secure a coordinator who can:
- Implement a modern, adaptable offensive system.
- Develop Mayfield into a more consistent, high-efficiency quarterback.
- Leverage the team’s strong skill-position talent to create mismatches.
As the search begins, one thing is clear: the Buccaneers’ 2026 season hinges on getting this hire right. The clock is ticking, and the NFC South won’t wait.
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