Buccaneers could retain staffer amid Lions’ defensive coordinator interest

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could retain defensive staffer Larry Foote after his interview with the Detroit Lions.

Feb 7, 2021; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebackers coach Larry Foote against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a bit of a staff exodus in recent days — offensive coordinator Liam Coen headed to the Jacksonville Jaguars to take their head coaching job and defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers headed to Detroit to coach the Lions. There was potentially a third coach leaving Tampa Bay — he didn't get the job he was looking for, but he may be out regardless.

Buccaneers linebackers coach Larry Foote interviewed for the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator position, and he did not get the job. Instead, the Lions promoted from within, going with linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard to fill in for new New York Jets HC Aaron Glenn.

The #Lions are promoting LBs coach Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator, filling the shoes of Aaron Glenn, per me and @MikeGarafolo.

A quick rise for the eight-year NFL veteran, Sheppard earns a DC job in only his third season under Dan Campbell. pic.twitter.com/cM3m9ebqEc
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2025

That still doesn't quite mean that Foote, who has been with head coach Todd Bowles since 2019, will return. Per the Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud, Foote's contract is up and he is a free agent coach. The Buccaneers do want him back, per Stroud, but he could interview for other opportunities as well.

Lions are poaching Bucs defense staff. Foote is also a free agent although the Bucs want him back. https://t.co/1exY1zauzU
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) January 23, 2025

Time will tell if Foote returns to the Buccaneers, but for now, he won't be headed to Motor City.

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