Dianna Russini: Coaches/NFL Suits Link Bill Belichick To Bucs (And Other Teams)
November 23rd, 2024
Could the Bucs have a new coach next year? Would that new coach have the second-most wins in NFL history?
Some league insiders think that is a real possibility.
One speed bump stands in the way: Todd Bowles is very much still employed by Tampa Bay. And if he is able to rally his troops to reach the playoffs in the remaining seven games, it would be a stretch to think Bowles would get run.
However, from a few coaches and NFL suits who spoke to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, if the Bucs’ season goes south in the next two months, a long shadow will hang over One Buc Palace.
That would be the silhouette of Bill Belichick.
The former Browns and Patriots coach lurks. He has six rings to his resume as a head coach and is largely believed to be seeking a new team after parting ways with the Patriots in January.
Russini asked coaches and NFL shot-callers where Belichick may land. While Jacksonville was often mentioned, so too (“frequently”) were the Bucs, Russini typed.
One common answer was the Jacksonville Jaguars. In a recent episode of the “Scoop City” podcast, my co-host Chase Daniel and I discussed the possibility of Belichick taking over Jacksonville in 2025, should Doug Pederson get fired. While Belichick has maintained a strong relationship with Jaguars ownership, it’s anticipated he would seek changes in the front office, particularly regarding current general manager Trent Baalke.
The other two teams that came up frequently: The Dallas Cowboys and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (should those jobs open up).
Of course, Belichick has been dropping hints himself in his many media responsibilities this year. Earlier this season on “Inside the NFL,” Belichick enthusiastically said of the Bucs’ offense, “I love Baker Mayfield.”
And recently on the Manning Bros. show, Belichick spoke glowingly of Bucs AC/DC-loving general manager Jason Licht who worked with Belichick in New England.
Belichick, on his YouTube channel, said Bucs left tackle Tristan Wirfs was the best at his position this season.
So there is something for Bucs fans and Joe’s readers to chew on as they prep for the Bucs-Giants game tomorrow at 1 p.m.
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November 23rd, 2024 at 5:27 pm
I don’t think he would want to follow Brady here. If he doesn’t succeed it will really show he couldn’t win without Brady. The Giants seem to be the best fit.
November 23rd, 2024 at 5:46 pm
So exactly how would the “Evil Hoodie” wear a hoodie in the Florida heat?
November 23rd, 2024 at 5:47 pm
Dewey, at this stage of His career, Belichick might want to come here for the same reasons Brady did: lots of pieces in place, weather, Licht, and ownership that’ll give him everything he needs. Giants are a dumpster fire. LOL
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:01 pm
Meh..🫤
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:02 pm
Bill Belichick and Liam Coen.
Yep.
I’m all in on that.
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:13 pm
Did Belicheat EVER have a winning season without Brady?
Asking for a friend…
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:15 pm
yes — upgrade at coach with the GOAT
if we could only be so lucky
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:31 pm
Sure! He got the Brownies to the playoffs. Won a playoff game too. Took the Browns 25 years to win another.
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:33 pm
The Bucs NEED a current successful OC to become HC for several years of winning success…..
BUT, as long as its not Bowels…
The verdict is in and extremely clear, Bowels make a horrific HC!
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:37 pm
Another Patriot retread ?
If Todd goe’s I’d rather see somebody not in their “golden years”.
November 23rd, 2024 at 6:56 pm
I like Bowles but a defensive coach with a bad defense??
November 23rd, 2024 at 8:14 pm
Mayfield throwing to Gronk and Edelnutt haha !!!
November 23rd, 2024 at 8:43 pm
Belichick is a surly jerk and is preoccupied with his 24 year old girlfriend. Too old, too stubborn and out of touch with young players. Would love to to see the pairing of Jerry Jones and Mr. Bill. That will not end well.
November 23rd, 2024 at 9:03 pm
This would be just stupid….
November 23rd, 2024 at 9:05 pm
I believe Belichick turns 73 next spring which would make him the oldest coach to coach a franchise in the NFL. This would not be a long term solution. We’d be right back to starting another coaching search in short order. No to Belichick and yes to Coen.
November 23rd, 2024 at 9:15 pm
How much noise will the Buca make in the next 2 months and what does Liam Coen want. 2 huge dominos that need to fall before any moves are made. I don’t mind the idea of Belicheck but at 73… there better be a good succession plan.
If anyone could say what Coen wants for the next year, the next 5 years.. it would make speculating a lot easier.