Buccaneers fire OC Josh Grizzard in staff overhaul

Josh Grizzard is out after one season as offensive coordinator of the Buccaneers, which puts Tampa Bay in position to hire a fifth primary play-caller in as many years.

Grizzard and quarterbacks coach Thad Lewis were fired by head coach Todd Bowles, who vowed to "make needed changes" to this coaching staff after the Bucs missed the playoffs and finished the season 8-9.

Bowles also removed two defensive assistants -- cornerbacks coach Kevin Ross and defensive line coach Charlie Strong -- along with special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey.

"These decisions are always difficult, but the disappointing end to the season required some changes to our coaching staff in order to ensure we live up to the high standards we have set here," Bowles said. "These coaches have all put in tremendous amount of work and effort, but unfortunately, the results were not there this past season. Our goal is to compete for championships every year, and it is my responsibility to make these tough decisions in order to reach those expectations. I want to thank these coaches for all that they have contributed to our success over the years, and I wish them well."

The staff overhaul continued with senior offensive assistant Tom Moore, 87, and safeties coach Nick Rapone, 69, announcing their retirements.

Grizzard, 35, was promoted to offensive coordinator to replace Liam Coen, who was hired as head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Grizzard spent seven seasons with the Miami Dolphins before joining the Buccaneers in 2023 as passing game coordinator.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield had the best statistical season of his career in 2024 under Coen, racking up 4,500 yards, 41 touchdowns and a 71.4% completion rate. He also got off to a blazing start to the 2025 season.

Since Byron Leftwich was fired after the 2022 season, the Buccaneers have had Dave Canales (2023), Coen and Grizzard call offensive plays.

Lewis, 38, who played quarterback at Duke and was on the roster of eight NFL teams from 2010-17, was QBs coach the past two seasons and has been with the Bucs in various roles since 2020.

--Field Level Media