Games haven't even started yet, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles is already having his job security questioned. The defensive-minded head coach led the Bucs to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons, but a down year in 2025 has him on the hot seat. He'll need his team to perform this season if he wants to keep his job.
Despite the mounting pressure, Tampa Bay wasn't particularly aggressive this offseason. The most expensive outside addition to the roster was linebacker Alex Anzalone, who faces the tall task of replacing Lavonte David in the middle of the defense.
Anzalone might not be a superstar, but his performance in 2026 will be key to the team's success and to Bowles' job security.
Alex Anzalone could be the key to saving Todd Bowles' Buccaneers job
If there's one hallmark of a Todd Bowles defense, it's his willingness to blitz at any moment. The Buccaneers blitzed on 29.6% of their opponent dropbacks last season, a top-four rate in the NFL. Tampa Bay has logged a top-five blitz rate in each of the last three seasons.
On any given play, the Buccaneers' linebackers could be blitzing, fitting the run, or dropping back into coverage. They're asked to play a variety of roles. It's why David has been so valuable in recent seasons.
Still, the signing of Anzalone has flown under the radar. His modest two-year, $17 million contract didn't generate much offseason buzz.
ESPN's Matt Bowen took notice, though. In a recent article ranking the 50 most impactful offseason additions in the NFL, he snuck Anzalone in at No. 49.
Bowen said, "The Bucs addressed the inside linebacker position with Anzalone and rookie Josiah Trotter. Anzalone is quick to key the run game, and he will be schemed on pressures in Todd Bowles' defense. Anzalone also has the lateral agility to help Tampa Bay in coverage."
Trotter is set to start next to Anzalone at linebacker. The rookie is primarily a run stopper and is limited in coverage. He'll play a role, but Anzalone will be tasked with manning the do-it-all spot left by David.
He's more than equipped to do so. During his time with the Detroit Lions, Anzalone was solid both in coverage and against the run. He's productive as a blitzer, too, tallying 2.5 sacks last season.
Bowles needs his defense to step up this season if he's going to keep his job. Anzalone will be at the center of that effort.
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