The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to conduct a second interview with Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich on Tuesday, according to league sources not authorized to speak publicly. The interview will be held in Tampa, Florida, with the Jaguars’ leadership group. Among that group will be owner Shad Khan, according to a source.
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Byron Leftwich could be set to return to the Jaguars after starting his playing career there
Leftwich has long-standing ties to the Jaguars. Jacksonville drafted the retired quarterback seventh overall in 2003. He started 44 games with the franchise between 2003 and 2006.
Leftwich, 42, has been Tampa Bay’s offensive coordinator since 2019. He has coached legendary quarterback Tom Brady the past two seasons. The offense helped the team to a Super Bowl championship a year ago.
Leftwich couldn’t get Jameis Winston to cut down his interceptions in 2019. That season, Winston threw for 5,109 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions, powering the top-ranked passing offense in the league. However, with Brady, one of the most decorated players in NFL history, it’s been a smoother offense run to Brady’s strengths and the personnel around him.
Prior to joining head coach Bruce Arians in Tampa Bay, Leftwich was an interim offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach under him with the Arizona Cardinals.
Leftwich is young but respected
Leftwich is regarded as a sharp, player-friendly coach. His background as a QB informs his decision-making process as an offensive coordinator. Indeed, he has paid his dues as a coach and is considered a strong candidate.
The Chicago Bears also requested to interview Leftwich. His multi-team market demonstrates his value as a potential head coach is recognized outside of his former franchise in Jacksonville. During his three years in Tampa Bay, the offense has been in the top 10 in yards gained and a top-five scoring unit.