Todd Bowles finds himself on the hot seat as he enters the 2026 season, following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' disappointing performance last year. After a promising 6-2 start in 2025, the team faltered, losing seven of their last nine games to finish 8-9, marking their first playoff absence since 2019. Despite past successes, Bowles' defenses have underperformed, leading to escalating scrutiny regarding his leadership. The Bucs have made significant moves to bolster their defense, leaving Bowles with fewer excuses for poor performance. With heightened expectations this season, Bowles must prove he deserves to lead Tampa Bay moving forward.

By the Numbers
  • Todd Bowles has a 35-33 regular-season record and a 1-3 playoff record in Tampa Bay.
  • The Buccaneers lost seven of their last nine games in the 2025 season, finishing with an 8-9 record.
State of Play
  • The Buccaneers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2019 after winning their division three consecutive seasons.
  • Significant defensive additions this offseason include Rueben Bain Jr., veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone, and draft pick Josiah Trotter.
What's Next

The immediate future revolves around whether Bowles can rectify the team's trajectory and secure a playoff berth. There will be immense pressure to improve the defense and demonstrate the changes made are effective. Continued failure could lead Tampa Bay to explore other coaching options.

Bottom Line

Bowles faces a critical make-or-break season in 2026, where past success can no longer be an excuse for present failures. With the team's roster improved, the expectation is clear: contend for the division title and return to the playoffs, or face inevitable changes.