Buccaneers Fire Offensive Coordinator Josh Grizzard
Tampa, FL, January 8, 2026 – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fired offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard on Thursday, ending his one-year tenure in the role. The move came after the team’s offense struggled in the latter part of the 2025 season, dropping from third in the NFL in total yards per game in 2024 to 21st in 2025. Head coach Todd Bowles, who is staying with the team for 2026, also parted ways with quarterbacks coach Thad Lewis.
Background on Grizzard’s Tenure
Grizzard, a 35-year-old Yale graduate, was promoted from pass game coordinator to offensive coordinator in January 2025, replacing Liam Coen, who left to become head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Grizzard had no prior experience calling plays at the NFL level but was praised early in the 2025 season for maintaining offensive productivity despite injuries. However, the Buccaneers’ offense faltered in the final months, finishing 20th in expected points added per play and 22nd in success rate. The team posted an 8-9 record in 2025, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Tenure as OC | One season (2025) |
| Previous Role | Pass Game Coordinator (2024) |
| Offensive Performance | Dropped from 399.5 yards per game (3rd in NFL, 2024) to 320.4 yards per game (21st, 2025) |
| Team Record | 8-9 in 2025 |
| Other Changes | Quarterbacks coach Thad Lewis also fired |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Josh Grizzard fired?
Grizzard was fired due to the Buccaneers’ offensive struggles in 2025, particularly in the second half of the season. Despite a strong start, the offense regressed, leading to the team’s first non-playoff season in five years. This marked the fourth offensive coordinator change under head coach Todd Bowles in four seasons.
Who will replace Josh Grizzard?
The Buccaneers have not yet announced a replacement. Bowles will now search for his fifth offensive coordinator since taking over as head coach in 2022. Potential candidates may include external hires or internal promotions.
Is Todd Bowles safe as head coach?
Yes, Bowles confirmed he will return for the 2026 season. The firings of Grizzard and Lewis appear to be an attempt to reset the offensive staff without changing the head coach.