In a whirlwind of coaching decisions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers found themselves adapting quickly. Last week, the Bucs believed they had secured Liam Coen’s return as offensive coordinator, but in a dramatic twist, Coen opted to take on the head coaching role for the Jacksonville Jaguars. With the sudden vacancy, Tampa Bay was on the hunt for a new leader for their offense.
By Friday, the Bucs had pinpointed their next offensive mastermind: Josh Grizzard. Previously serving as the team’s passing game coordinator, Grizzard’s promotion marks a significant step in his coaching trajectory, making him the fourth person in the role in as many years for Tampa Bay.
Under Coen’s guidance in 2024, Grizzard played a pivotal role in quarterback Baker Mayfield’s standout season, which was arguably the best of his career thus far. By promoting Grizzard, the Buccaneers are betting on a bit of familiarity—a strategic move considering Mayfield is adjusting to his third coordinator since joining the team in 2023.
Grizzard brings a wealth of experience to the table, with 13 years of coaching under his belt and eight of those in the NFL. His tenure with the Miami Dolphins saw him foster impressive offensive stats: leading the league in total yards per game (401.3), passing yards per game (265.5), and a remarkable 5.1 yards per carry in his final season there. This experience is expected to bolster Tampa Bay’s already potent passing game.
What’s crucial, though, is Grizzard’s ability to continue the progress seen in the Bucs’ running game—a transformation initiated last season under Coen’s watch. Tampa Bay shifted from struggling to becoming one of the top rushing teams in the league.
By appointing Grizzard, the Buccaneers seem to be aiming for a touch of continuity amidst the coaching carousel, hoping that in-house familiarity will foster consistency and success as they look to maintain the offensive strides they’ve achieved.
