Byron Leftwich Tries To Twist Jags Talk Into Jets Chatter
December 30th, 2021
It’s about disrespect.
In the nearly three years that Bucs offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich has been on the job, one thing is very clear to Joe.
Leftwich does not like direct questions.
Ask Leftwich a question and he rambles with sweeping platitudes filled with empty clichés that more often than not have nothing to do with the question. Sometimes, Joe wonders what’s the point of this vapid dog-and-pony show? If a guy is going to disrespect fans weekly like this, why waste everyone’s time?
(As Joe is typing this, Leftwich actually shocked Joe and gave a quality answer to a question about the immortal Cyril Grayson. See Byron, this isn’t painful. Thank you for answering the question. Sincerely. Progress!)
Recently, rampant rumors linked Leftwich to the Jags opening and he was asked about them. Leftwich just laughed and walked away.
He couldn’t walk away today so easily.
In the first question of today’s presser, Leftwich — politely — was asked about the Jags and it was pointed out to him the Jags have filed paperwork with the Bucs to seek permission to interview him. So it wasn’t like Leftwich was being asked about social media speculation or unfounded rumors.
Leftwich claims he’s not even thinking about interviewing with the Jags — though he never stated he won’t interview. Leftwich will have you believe he is so locked in on Sunday’s game that he has no idea there is a future in life past Jan. 2, 2022.
“Well, I really think it’s disrespectful to the Jets or whoever we are playing that week, really, when we are talking about things that really have nothing to do with Sunday’s game,” Leftwich said.
Right.
Disrespectful to the Jets but what about disrespectful to Bucs fans who help pay his salary when he refuses to address if he will be the Bucs’ offensive coordinator full-time in the coming days, weeks or even next season? Talk about backwards ethics.
Still, Leftwich will have you believe the Jags opening has not remotely crossed his mind.
“To be honest with you, I am completely focused on this football game on Sunday,” Leftwich said. “Obviously, as a coach anytime your name gets thrown around, I guess it is what it is, right? It really means nothing at this point, right?
“I kind of think it’s disrespectful to the guys that you work with every day. So that’s really how I view that. If I am ever fortunate enough to be in that situation (interviewing for an NFL head coach opening), that’s when I will handle it.
“As of right now, I’m really focusing on the opponent we are about to play and getting us ready to play our best football.”
OK, so Joe is going to take Leftwich at his word. He doesn’t want to address future jobs because he doesn’t want to disrespect the Jets or people he works with at One Buc Palace, forget Bucs fans.
So in Joe’s mind, the solution is simple. If Leftwich truly wants to avoid disrespecting opponents and co-workers, then issue a statement that you fully refuse to discuss with any team or any team’s representative(s) any job opening until the Bucs have played their final game of the 2021-22 postseason.
To Joe’s knowledge, such a statement or edict has yet to be released.
December 30th, 2021 at 1:58 pm
I think more coaches and players should tell media to butt out.
The media, for the most part, sucks. They stir the pot. They create problems. They turn non-issues and private matters into massive distractions. They write inflammatory articles to generate clicks with zero regard to the impact on a person’s life. If the media disappeared 80% of society’s problems would go away.
BL wants to focus on the Bucs’ winning. He doesn’t want distractions. Kudos.
Maybe faithful Buc reporters should support a loyal coach?
December 30th, 2021 at 1:58 pm
I have no issues with anyone that doesn’t want to talk to the media. I’m not sure where the mindset comes from that as fans of the team we’re entitled to have our questions answered. That’s not the case. The coaches and players owe me around 3 hours of entertainment when I watch a game, that’s about it. It’s nice to have more, but there’s also the fact that 99% of what is said to the media is just boring, predictable garbage. Not to mention the fact that if a coach or player says anything that is unexpected, the media will lead the charge to get a public hanging. If I’m Leftwich, I don’t answer anything the media asks. Also, if I’m Leftwich, I give Tom Brady better directions to my house and I stop being so incredibly predictable in my playcalling, and I stop trying to run the clock out with 14 mins left in the 3rd quarter. Also if I’m Leftwich I get the Jags to give me an 8-year deal, fully guaranteed, at $10m a year – if I’m going to be forced to live in Jacksonville, I’m going to want a mint.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:05 pm
Ask Leftwich a question and he rambles with sweeping platitudes filled with empty clichés that more often than not have nothing to do with the question.
____________
December 30th, 2021 at 2:06 pm
^^^^^^^
What an eloquent way of calling him a BSer Joe!
Very nice.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:06 pm
this sort of seems like standard issue coordinator-speak in these situations. Can’t be offended about a guy going for a HC job in the standard issue manner for his profession.
People really expect a guy to open up about this? When was the last time that happened?
December 30th, 2021 at 2:07 pm
“Bucs fans who help pay his salary when he refuses to address if he will be the Bucs’ offensive coordinator full-time in the coming days, weeks or even next season?” What Disrespect and backward Ethics you are claiming?
With this as Leftwich quote: “Well, I really think it’s disrespectful to the Jets or whoever we are playing that week, really, when we are talking about things that really have nothing to do with Sunday’s game,” Leftwich said.”
that sounds nothing like disrespect for his team, his management, and owners, as well as “us” fans. Why do you insist he should show and explain to “you” are his cards close to his vest?
Go!!!! Bucs!!!!
December 30th, 2021 at 2:19 pm
LOL Puh-LEEZE! 🤦♂️
December 30th, 2021 at 2:20 pm
Joe is on to something with his take on BL.
He’s not very good at doing things a potential HC should be good at.
Handling the media comes with the territory.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:21 pm
Perhaps because taxpayers pay for the place they work in on Sundays and that fans help pay their salaries.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:22 pm
Many news outlets, print and broadcast alike, wanted AB’s head on a platter. Our own local media was all in too.
Wonder why the league isn’t pressured to investigate other clubs?
Thanks Joe. You stick to telling the story.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:26 pm
And that’s why you guys get treated like that.
He doesn’t have to answer that.
Simple. Stop the drama we got a game.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:35 pm
Joe Says:
Perhaps because taxpayers pay for the place they work in on Sundays and that fans help pay their salaries.
———
Joe, please, I’ll love you forever, if next time Leftwich dodges a question, say “I PAY YOUR SALARY, PAL! ANSWER THE QUESTION!”
You will be a legend, and I will be your biggest fan!
December 30th, 2021 at 2:37 pm
I got no problem with Joe asking the question, it’s his job, and the answers he got, or didn’t get from BL. I disagree Joe, I thought he sounded like any H.C. would. Standard B.S., Belichick would be proud.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:39 pm
I thought his words were pretty clear and fair. Until he officially is interviewed, he doesn’t want to talk about it and cause any distraction. The question is fair and obvious from a reporter but it’s also reasonable for him to give the coach speak canned answer until it’s actually happening. It would at least give off the vibe that he is laser focused as a coach. Wouldn’t that be the perception he would want to give a future employer?
December 30th, 2021 at 2:40 pm
Rod says…..I have no issues with anyone that doesn’t want to talk to the media. I’m not sure where the mindset comes from that as fans of the team we’re entitled to have our questions answered. That’s not the case. The coaches and players owe me around 3 hours of entertainment when I watch a game, that’s about it. It’s nice to have more, but there’s also the fact that 99% of what is said to the media is just boring, predictable garbage. Not to mention the fact that if a coach or player says anything that is unexpected, the media will lead the charge to get a public hanging. If I’m Leftwich, I don’t answer anything the media asks.
AGREE 1000%
GO BUCS!!!!
December 30th, 2021 at 2:41 pm
Joe said:
Perhaps because taxpayers pay for the place they work in on Sundays and that fans help pay their salaries.
The NFL being a not-for-profit is still the biggest scam going. If you are keeping score the scam list goes: 1) The NFL 2) Big Pharma 3) Insurance companies
December 30th, 2021 at 2:44 pm
“So in Joe’s mind, the solution is simple. If Leftwich truly wants to avoid disrespecting opponents and co-workers, then issue a statement that you fully refuse to discuss with any team or any team’s representative(s) any job opening until the Bucs have played their final game of the 2021-22 postseason.“
Fake news media always making it about themselves. Like, was his direct answer about how he’s not going to talk about it…not enough already? This article reeks of copium, Joe.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:46 pm
Respond to Joe: “Perhaps because taxpayers pay for the place they work in on Sundays and that fans help pay their salaries.”
Us taxpayers help pay for the airport too, but you don’t see me walking around there demanding answers.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:52 pm
This man owes nothing to the people not even the Glazers his employers. People always think they are are owed something because they are so over privilege thinking he owes them a view into his world when they really don’t. Why is that? Just because you’re a reporter or you bought a ticket? He has just as much right to the freedom of not saying what his intentions are as we all have freedom of speech in this country. Besides if he underperformed in his duties the Glazers would fire him with out as much as a warning. Look at all the coaches fired even though they are under “contract”. They weren’t owed the right to finish out the actual meaning of the word of contract that they were promised. People really need to get over their over entitled selves. He doesn’t owe you anything. If he wants to tell us it’s his prerogative.
December 30th, 2021 at 2:58 pm
Never really got your perspective on Leftwich’s press conferences, Joe. Don’t get me wrong, I am a longtime fan of your site and Ira’s podcast, but these press conferences are a dog and pony show for reporters to get juicy sound bytes and quotes to capture eyeballs. Leftwich isn’t any better than Arians, who rarely says anything of substance either. Bowles even less so. As a fan, I’m more concerned what happens on the field and watch the press conferences for a little color. Leftwich provides some football insight and it’s good enough for me. It’s a lot easier to watch the press conferences when you’re winning like we are these days. Go Bucs!!!
December 30th, 2021 at 3:00 pm
To be clear, I have no issue with Joe asking the questions. I don’t mean this as an insult, but I don’t really see Joe as part of the media, this site is more commentary and a blog, almost a fans site, and coaches/players should try to answer stuff as you are talking to the fans, in the Joes case. But I also have no issue with Leftwich choosing not to, just to be clear.
However when it comes to the fake news St Pete Times or any of these other fake news sources, where they’re activists just looking to try to get players to stumble so they can burn them at the stake.
To be sure not everyone in the media is the enemy, for example I don’t think Jenna Laine is trying to rabble up a mob, but her employer aboutely is. That’s why it doesn’t do you any good to say anything that isn’t completely boring and predictable.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:03 pm
Oh?
December 30th, 2021 at 3:05 pm
Are you serious the NFL is a non-profit? If so how can they sell advertisements?
December 30th, 2021 at 3:08 pm
People whether coaches or not have the right to answer or not. That does not make them bad or good.
They are people just like we are, but in the public light.
BL does say more than the pulling teeth press conferences with Billy B, oh how those reporters love those times with Bill lol
GO BUCS!!!!
December 30th, 2021 at 3:14 pm
Leftwich is in a no-win situation that he did not create.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:17 pm
@Listn: the NFL is a non-profit corporation.
The individual teams are not.
And all “non-profit” really means is they cannot distribute dividends to shareholders, and cannot make a public offering for shares. It does NOT mean they don’t make a profit.
The NFL, Inc. is a pass-through entity.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:18 pm
Funny how some expect a coach to not speak in CoachSpeak.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:20 pm
@Joe: Finance can be a funny thing.
The taxpayers pay for the stadium, true enough, but do not the Glazers pay rent for using that stadium?
December 30th, 2021 at 3:21 pm
He has issues with language and communication. He’s not mature enough to speak with candor and clarity. Doesn’t mean he can’t coach football. I don’t think most fans care about his performance in weekly pressers. If he obviously sucked at his job, it would just be more fodder, but right now, it’s just another coach spewing clichés. Big whoop. I wouldn’t want him as head coach though.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:27 pm
wow dang joe you really went in on lefty right there…
and all i do is get on him for wearing a thuggy flat brim kid type ball cap over a dad cap…
let the man stay focused…a lot of football is hopefully ahead
#NoTimeForDivisionOnlyPrecision
December 30th, 2021 at 3:39 pm
This kinda shat cracks me up. It’s like the guy that tells the cop he pays his salary. Usually doesn’t end well.
December 30th, 2021 at 3:42 pm
lolololol
Kentucky Buc Says:
December 30th, 2021 at 3:39 pm
This kinda shat cracks me up. It’s like the guy that tells the cop he pays his salary. Usually doesn’t end well.
lol many have tried with the police, lol and it just does not go over well lol
December 30th, 2021 at 3:52 pm
Going to be very hard to retain him and Bowles. I’m sure they are both on some teams short list.
December 30th, 2021 at 4:28 pm
Who’s signature is on his check?…..I’m sure it’s not Tax-payer or Media or Joe Tangerine Beer Guzzler!!
December 30th, 2021 at 5:18 pm
He has probably never had a HC interview. He probably would like to see what they are like. Exactly like Gronk did when he was a free agent. As for Todd, he has BEEN a HC and just maybe likes the job he has now even better. I don’t see either one of them leaving for a lesser team even though the position may pay more.
December 30th, 2021 at 5:36 pm
@Cobra One little tiny itsy bitsy thing you forgot Cobra. Not for profits do not pay income tax. Any guess as to the amount of tax the NFL is saving every year. I think we would all agree it’s a really big number. Exorbitant salaries can still be paid but they don’t have to worry about income tax like each and every one of us do. It’s ridiculous and senseless. I can’t even understand what section of the 501 code they qualify for. Social club? GTFOH.
December 30th, 2021 at 5:39 pm
PS. If it is a not-for-profit corporation it is not a pass through entity. Income tax is not being paid at all on any level
December 30th, 2021 at 5:42 pm
I mean if it IS a not-for-profit corporation then it is not a pass-thru entity.
December 30th, 2021 at 5:42 pm
I see both of them leaving, if they get a head coaching job offer.
Both of them have benefited greatly by coaching us. We have a TON of Talent, on both sides of the ball, as well as the GOAT QB Brady.
They may never get the chance again to cash in on the success both have had on our super talented team.
I am not worried one bit about either of them leaving. Both can easily be replaced.
December 30th, 2021 at 5:53 pm
Joe, you and other fans here and I see the same world through different tints of our respective “rose colored glasses”. We hear with different ears also, I guess.
After reading through this article I went back and listened to BL’s presser for a second time. I would not doubt you might think me naive in my world view. (You would be wrong for reasons I will not go into here.)
I take what he said and in the context of all of what he said as representing what he was really thinking at the time. “… to be honest with you I am completely focused on this football game on Sunday. … … It really means nothing at this point. …”
Of course I could actually be more wrong than right in my judgement. In my opinion he is sincere and tries to say no more than he feels necessary.
December 30th, 2021 at 5:57 pm
Why make trouble when theirs none. BL is doing a fine job, media propaganda needs to stop. That man shouldn’t have to be scrutinized for not asking questions about a team he’s not apart of. Who cares whether he interested or not. That’s his choice however, in the meantime let him do what he gets paid to do. Get his team coached and prepared to play on Sunday. That’s all that should matter.
December 30th, 2021 at 6:01 pm
I’ve never understood all of the shade thrown on Leftwich. Most “fans” give him little credit for the Bucs offensive success (saying it’s all Brady, BA, WR’s, etc.), yet gets blame when they lose (I highly doubt Leftwich wanted the Bucs receivers to drop 8 passes vs. the Saints). As far as his press conferences, the guy can say whatever he wants to say, sorry if it’s not what you want him to say.
December 30th, 2021 at 6:11 pm
I don’t see Leftwich as an extraordinary coach and the odds on him turning Jacksonville around are against him. If they want him he’ll leave because it’s such a jump in pay. I just don’t know if it works out badly for him that he might not regret waiting for a better coaching job with a better organization.
December 30th, 2021 at 6:28 pm
I’m wit’ you on this one, Cmurda! (2:39) You hit the nail on the head, much more succinct than I was.
Go bucs!
December 30th, 2021 at 6:43 pm
To Rod Munch, I do see this site as media. (3:00 PM) Rather, I see this site as a hybrid of (or a funny marriage of ) media site and fan site.
The “Fan” part of the name JoeBucsFan threw me me off when I first came to it. It took me a while to come a conclusion. Sometimes the Joes wear a reporter hat. Sometimes its an analyst hat. Sometimes its a “fan view” hat. Sometimes is is another kind of hat. Most of the time it is a “mixed bag”.
This is not so different than what I experienced in my own career (which I am retired from). I juggled many different hats at different times and in different situations as they came up over time.
December 30th, 2021 at 7:35 pm
Good luck to BL in whatever he decides to do after the season, Jags ownership sucks but it ain’t no worse than Culvehouse.
December 30th, 2021 at 8:09 pm
What did you expect him to say? “Yes, I’m interviewing with the Jags and seriously considering the position”. If he did, it’s a distraction to the team. I’m not a big fan of BL, but what he said is exactly what he should have said, nothing. He doesn’t owe anyone (including me) an explanation.
December 30th, 2021 at 8:19 pm
With the current results, both Bucs coaches would not the jobs because other candidates have better results. If the Bucs repeats the SB this year, they will be favored. Thus, not answering their future now is understandable.
December 30th, 2021 at 8:19 pm
We really don’t care, Joe. We don’t lose any sleep behind how he answers questions. It affects you….not us.
December 30th, 2021 at 9:31 pm
It affects fans.
December 30th, 2021 at 10:03 pm
“If the media disappeared 80% of society’s problems would go away.”
hy·per·bo·le
noun
exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.
Just because we’re debating sports doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our critical thinking skills. So we’re cool with the concept of don’t like the message just shoot the messenger?
As for why we or the media or anybody is entitled to ask these questions it’s because the NFL is NOTHING without the coverage. Before that famous Colts Giants NFL title game the NFL sucked hind teat behind MLB..and even college football.
COVERAGE is what freaking made the NFL. The “personalities” covered and created by the NFL are what make the NFL the monster it is. How soon we forget.
John Madden was a legend eulogized on ALL the major outlets. John Madden was a creation of and a product of THE MEDIA!!!!
Fans cheer for more than just the final scores. They love the “personalities” involved in the competitions. They want to know their favorite athletes. It goes with the territory.
If an athlete doesn’t like the “media” and their prying questions or the nosy fans they can always play their sport in a rec league. Nobody ever interviewed me after a company softball game. But nobody was paying me millions either!!!!
December 30th, 2021 at 10:09 pm
cmurda: I don’t make the rules.
The NFL can pass through revenues and not pay taxes.
The entity that gets those revenues are not non-profits, so they do pay the taxes. Like the teams.
Nfl, Inc. and the various non-profit subsidiaries may not pay taxes, but those teams and their subsidiaries do pay taxes. Heavy taxes, That’s why they all have a “foundation”: better to spend some % of $$$ on a foundation for charity & PR purposes than pay Uncle Sugar.
Is there any sports franchise-granting organization that pays taxes? NBA? NHL? NBA? Are they all not non-profit? Are they all not pass-throughs?
So $$$ comes into the NFL, they pay massive salaries and perks, and the rest goes to the franchises. The NFL as a corporation will show no profit. And since it’s a non-public corporation, nobody gets to see their books but the IRS. Not even the NFLPA has full access to all the books.
December 31st, 2021 at 4:33 pm
The only people that root for others to pay high income taxes are welfare trash that live off other people’s earnings. The same people that complain about x not paying enough, or y not paying enough, are the same people who have never contributed anything to the country, and all they want is to leech off everyone else.
I have spoken.