The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continued to reshape their coaching staff for the 2026 season, announcing on Friday, January 30, the hiring of Danny Smith as the team's new special teams coordinator. The move fills a critical vacancy on Head Coach Todd Bowles' staff and signals a focused effort to improve a unit that has experienced inconsistency in recent seasons.
Smith, a well-traveled and respected special teams mind in the NFL, brings over two decades of coordinating experience to Tampa Bay. His most recent stop was with the Arizona Cardinals, where he oversaw their special teams units for the past three seasons. Prior to that, he enjoyed a long and successful tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2013 through 2022, helping them to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl berth. His units are traditionally known for their discipline, fundamentals, and knack for creating game-changing plays in the kicking game.
The hiring comes during a period of significant transition for the Buccaneers' coaching personnel. Earlier this offseason, the team officially named Zac Robinson as its new offensive coordinator. Furthermore, the Buccaneers saw pass game coordinator Josh Grizzard depart for the same role with the Philadelphia Eagles, a move that was reported on January 31. The appointment of Smith provides stability and a clear leader for the special teams phase as the team enters a crucial offseason.
"Special teams is one-third of the game, and we are committed to being elite in all three phases," said Head Coach Todd Bowles in a statement released by the team. "Danny has a proven track record of developing players and building units that play smart, physical football. We are excited to add his expertise and leadership to our staff."
Smith's immediate tasks will be multifaceted. He must evaluate the current roster of specialists, including kicker Chase McLaughlin and punter Jake Camarda, both of whom are under contract for the 2026 season. He will also be integral in working with General Manager Jason Licht to identify and develop core special teams contributors from the pool of 14 players recently signed to reserve/futures contracts, such as linebacker Nick Jackson and safety Marcus Banks. Furthermore, Smith will be a key voice in the draft room and during the evaluation of prospects at events like the recently concluded 2026 Senior Bowl.
The special teams unit had moments of brilliance in 2025, particularly in the return game, but also suffered from costly penalties and coverage lapses at inopportune times. Smith's hard-nosed coaching style and detailed approach are expected to instill a new level of consistency. His hiring aligns with Todd Bowles' stated desire to "make some changes" on defense, as special teams often features many defensive depth players, creating a natural synergy between the two units.
As the Buccaneers navigate the 2026 offseason, with the NFL salary cap projected to rise to over $301 million and key dates like the NFL Scouting Combine on the horizon, securing an experienced coordinator like Danny Smith is a foundational step. His work will be crucial in ensuring the Buccaneers' third unit complements what they hope will be an explosive offense led by quarterback Baker Mayfield and a retooled defense, keeping them in contention for the NFC South title.