Buccaneers Haven’t Ruled Out Bringing Back HC Dirk Koetter Next Year

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the Buccaneers haven’t ruled out the possibility of bringing back HC Dirk Koetter and their entire structure for the 2019 season

“Everyone assumes that (coach) Dirk Koetter is on his way out. My understanding is do not necessarily make that assumption,” Rapoport said. “They have not ruled out keeping Koetter, and, basically, their entire upper structure, including Jameis Winston, for the 2019 season. I’m not saying Koetter is staying, just don’t assume that he’s gone.”

Rapoport adds that Koetter being back in Tampa Bay isn’t a guarantee, but there have been signs of improvement from the team since they fired DC Mike Smith during the season.

The general assumption has been that the Buccaneers are likely part ways with Koetter after the season, but Buccaneers’ ownership surprisingly kept him and the coaching staff in place after the 2017 season, so it’s at least possible they could give everyone another year to see what they can do.

Koetter, 59, began his NFL coaching career as the Jaguars’ offensive coordinator back in 2007. After five years in Jacksonville, he was hired as the Falcons’ offensive coordinator and later joined Lovie Smith’s staff in the same role for the 2015 season.

The Buccaneers elected to move on from Smith after one season and made the decision to elevate Koetter to head coach.

During his two years as the Buccaneers’ head coach, Koetter has led the team to a record of 19-27 (41.3 percent) and no playoff appearances.

We’ll have more regarding Koetter as the news is available.