In a significant intra-division move, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are finalizing a deal to hire Zac Robinson as their new offensive coordinator. The news, which broke on January 22, 2026, marks a major shift in the NFC South landscape as Robinson moves from the Atlanta Falcons to join Todd Bowles' staff in Tampa.
A Reunion with Baker Mayfield
One of the driving forces behind this hire is Robinson’s existing relationship with Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. The two previously worked together in 2022 with the Los Angeles Rams, where Robinson served as the pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
During that brief stint, Robinson was instrumental in Mayfield’s successful integration into the Rams' system, most notably leading a 98-yard game-winning drive against the Raiders just two days after Mayfield joined the team. The Buccaneers hope to replicate that chemistry as they look to revitalize an offense that struggled toward the end of the 2025 season.
Leaving the Falcons
Robinson spent the last two seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons under Raheem Morris. His tenure in Atlanta was a tale of two halves:
The Highs: In 2024, the Falcons’ offense was a powerhouse, finishing 6th in the NFL in net yards per game and 5th in passing yards.
The Departure: Following the firing of Raheem Morris earlier this month, the Falcons moved in a different direction, recently hiring Tommy Rees to take over the offensive reins under new head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Why the Move Matters
For the Buccaneers, Robinson represents stability for Mayfield and a modern approach derived from the prestigious Sean McVay coaching tree. Robinson was a highly sought-after candidate this cycle, having also interviewed with the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, and Pittsburgh Steelers before choosing to stay in the division with Tampa Bay.
