Buccaneers' Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny Amid Mixed Results

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently holding a record of seven wins and five losses, a result that has placed head coach Todd Bowles under scrutiny regarding his coaching decisions. Recent losses to competitive teams like the Los Angeles Rams, Buffalo Bills, and New England Patriots have highlighted the challenges the Buccaneers face as they attempt to establish themselves as Super Bowl contenders.

Despite being at the top of a weak NFC South division, the Buccaneers' performance has raised questions about their consistency and overall direction for the remainder of the season. Following a Week 13 victory against the Arizona Cardinals, attention is now shifting to the 2026 NFL Draft as the Buccaneers begin planning for the future.

According to a report from The Pewter Plank, the Buccaneers' first-round pick, currently projected at number 20, could be utilized to select tight end Kenyon Sadiq from the Oregon Ducks. With Baker Mayfield struggling to find reliable targets at tight end, Sadiq presents an opportunity to enhance the offense with a mismatch nightmare who can block effectively while also posing a threat in the passing game.

In the second round, the Buccaneers are projected to select cornerback Keith Abney II from Arizona State with the 52nd overall pick. The Buccaneers currently have a solid starting duo in Jamel Dean and Jacob Parrish, but their depth at cornerback is a concern, particularly with Zyon McCollum struggling to perform.

Abney, known for his speed and ability to compete against top wide receivers, could provide an immediate upgrade to the secondary. Additionally, in the third round, the Buccaneers are expected to target nose tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. from Florida State with the 84th pick.

Jackson, a local standout, is seen as a valuable addition to the defensive front, providing an eventual successor to the aging Vita Vea, who is currently 30 years old. The Buccaneers are faced with the challenge of balancing their immediate playoff aspirations against the need to build a stronger roster for the future.

With a mix of coaching decisions and draft strategies under examination, the coming weeks will be crucial for Todd Bowles and the Buccaneers as they seek to solidify their standing in the league and make a deeper playoff run.

The decisions made during this offseason will be pivotal in shaping the franchise's future direction.