The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have named the team's offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter as the new head coach. He replaces Lovie Smith after his abrupt firing earlier this year.
The Buccaneers are holding a news conference to introduce Koetter to the community at 2 p.m. Friday
“We are excited to announce that Dirk Koetter will lead the Buccaneers as our new head coach,” said Buccaneers Co-Chairman Joel Glazer. ”Dirk has established himself as one of the top offensive coaches in our game while enjoying success at every stop during his college and NFL career. His success with our offense last season, along with his familiarity with our players and our organization, makes Dirk the right man to lead our team moving forward.”
BACKGROUND | Bucs fire Lovie Smith after two seasons, 8-24 record
“When I started this search for a new head coach, the focus was on finding someone that could be a strong leader as well as a consummate teacher, and Dirk is both,” said General Manager Jason Licht. “He brings the passion and drive that will re-energize our organization and help us establish the winning culture that will help us become the championship-caliber team that our fans deserve.”
Koetter would be the team's fourth head coach since 2011.
The three firings include Raheem Morris in 2011, Greg Schiano in 2013 and Lovie Smith earlier this year.
Smith's final win percentage with the team of .250 is the worst of a Bucs head coach since the early 1990s.
