Top 5 Landing Spots For Former Buccaneers Coach Lovie Smith

By Brad Berreman

Even with an 8-24 record over two seasons, Lovie Smith’s firing as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was a surprise. Smith will surely land on his feet somewhere, and here are five possible landing spots for him heading into next season.

Top 5 Landing Spots For Former Buccaneers Coach Lovie Smith

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Television — It's unknown if Smith would have any specific desire to work as an analyst on TV, like long-time friend Tony Dungy, or if any of the networks would want him as a potential short-term hire. But it's a possibility that can't be ruled out.

Jacksonville Jaguars — The Jaguars fired defensive coordinator Bob Babich this week, after a report head coach Gus Bradley would consider taking over defensive play-calling. Smith, despite a defensive philosophy that looks like a polar opposite to Bradley's roots in Seattle, could fit in Jacksonville as an assistant.

Dallas Cowboys — Smith and Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli worked together as assistants in Tampa Bay, and Smith later had Marinelli on his staff when he was head coach in Chicago. Smith may or may not want to serve as an assistant, but Dallas looks like a nice fit if he's willing to consider it.

New York Giants — Smith could be the type of proven head coach who would appeal to the Giants, and NJ.com reminds us he interviewed with them prior to Tom Coughlin's hiring. Smith would surely be hands-off on the offensive side of the ball, with the possibility to retain offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo, so he may come with a stamp of approval from Eli Manning.

Home — Depending on how his contract was structured in Tampa Bay, and if the reported salary of more than $5 million per year is true, Smith could have a buyout totaling over $10 million. That might be enough for him to sit out a year, as he did in 2013 after being fired by the Chicago Bears.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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