The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the hunt for their new offensive coordinator, with virtual interviews scheduled for two promising candidates: Israel Woolfork and David Shaw. The team is looking to fill the role left by Josh Grizzard, who recently parted ways with the organization. This move comes as the Buccaneers aim to strengthen their offensive strategy for the upcoming season.
Woolfork, currently the quarterbacks coach for the Arizona Cardinals, has an impressive track record. In 2025, he worked with quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Kyler Murray, who collectively threw for 4,328 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. This performance placed Arizona's passing attack seventh in the league and 11th in interception rate (1.69%). Woolfork's coaching journey began in 2022 with the Cleveland Browns, where he received the team's Bill Willis Coaching Fellowship. He then joined the Arizona coaching staff in 2023, focusing on the team's passers, including Murray, who had a remarkable season.
Before his NFL career, Woolfork spent nine years in college coaching, starting as a graduate assistant at Miami (OH) from 2013-14. He later coached running backs and wide receivers for the RedHawks, showcasing his versatility. Woolfork's playing days were equally impressive, as he played wide receiver at Grand Valley State and led the team to a D-II national championship in 2009.
David Shaw, the Detroit Lions Passing Game Coordinator, brings a wealth of experience to the table. With a 12-year stint as the head coach at Stanford University, Shaw leaves a lasting impact. His teams won 96 games, claimed three Pac-12 titles, and participated in eight bowl games, including two Rose Bowls. Shaw's success at Stanford earned him the conference's Coach of the Year four times, a record in Pac-12 history. His coaching expertise also extends to the NFL, where he worked with the Eagles, Raiders, and Ravens, coaching quarterbacks and wide receivers.
In 2025, Shaw's influence on the Lions' offense was significant. The team ranked fifth in points per game (28.3) and yards per game (373.2), third in yards per play (5.97), passing yards per game (253.1), and interception percentage (1.37). Additionally, Detroit's red zone offense was ranked eighth in the league.
As the Buccaneers consider their options, the virtual interviews with Woolfork and Shaw offer a glimpse into the potential future of their offensive strategy. Both candidates bring unique skills and experiences, leaving the organization with an exciting decision to make.
