The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reportedly reached out to former Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott regarding a potential position on their coaching staff. As the Buccaneers slowly build their team for the upcoming season, they have retained head coach Todd Bowles while also bringing in new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson and special teams coordinator Danny Smith.
Despite the inquiry, it appears that McDermott is not interested in joining the Buccaneers at this time. According to Greg Auman of FOX Sports, McDermott expressed a desire to take a year off from coaching before considering his next move in 2027. This decision follows his recent firing after a playoff loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round.
During his tenure in Buffalo from 2017 to 2026, McDermott compiled an impressive record of 98 wins and 50 losses, leading the team to the AFC Championship Game twice. His expertise on the defensive side of the ball makes him a valuable asset, and the Buccaneers would likely have sought his input on that front, especially since Bowles has confirmed his intention to call defensive plays next season.
McDermott previously worked with Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht during their time together at the Philadelphia Eagles from 2003 to 2007. Notably, McDermott had also interviewed for the Buccaneers” head coaching position back in 2016.
As the Buccaneers continue to interview potential assistant coaches, they are expected to finalize their coaching staff for the 2026 season soon. While adding a coach of McDermott”s caliber would have been a significant boost, the team will proceed without him as Bowles completes his defensive staff.
River Wells, a sports journalist based in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been covering the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since 2023. He graduated from the University of Florida in 2021 with a journalism degree.
