Buccaneers End Speculation with Multiyear Commitments
The annual offseason rumors surrounding Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles and his job security returned once again this past spring. On Thursday morning, however, the Buccaneers put those rumors to rest, announcing that both Bowles and general manager Jason Licht have signed multiyear contract extensions.
“Jason and Todd’s excellent leadership and vision have been critical to our organizational success, and the winning culture they have established has us well positioned into the future,” Buccaneers owner and co-chairman Joel Glazer said via a statement shared by Scott Smith of the team’s website.
“Jason has evolved into one of the top talent evaluators and general managers in the NFL, while Todd has led us to three consecutive division titles and is one of the league’s leading defensive minds. Under their guidance, we will continue building towards another championship.”
Licht’s Continued Stability
Jason Licht was not widely considered at risk of losing his position. Since the start of the 2020 season, the team has won a Super Bowl and four division titles under his leadership.
Meanwhile, rumors about Bowles’ future persisted. In December, speculation even suggested he might retire in early 2025. Bowles dismissed the idea, but some still floated the possibility of Tampa Bay pursuing North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick.
Belichick remains just 15 wins shy of breaking Don Shula’s all-time NFL record for combined regular-season and postseason victories. Notably, the buyout on his North Carolina contract dropped from $10 million to $1 million after June 1.
Despite a 27-24 regular-season record and a 1-3 postseason mark since January 2023, Bowles received support from insiders like Ira Kaufman of the JoeBucsFan website, who indicated earlier this June that his job was likely secure through at least 2026.
Deal Reportedly Runs Through 2028
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Adam Schefter, Bowles’ new contract extends through the 2028 season. “I am extremely appreciative of the confidence that the Glazer Family has shown in my abilities to lead this football team. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly and am honored to have,” Bowles said in the team’s statement.
“It starts at the top, and their unwavering commitment to our organization allows us to perform at our best and compete for championships. I am equally excited to continue working with Jason for years to come as we build on the success we’ve enjoyed and keep reaching for even bigger and better goals.”
