The Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Coaching Academy named 25 finalists for its 2026 class April 28 after receiving nearly 1,000 applications. The Academy is in its third year and was created by the Glazer family to create pathways for coaches seeking opportunities in the National Football League. The finalists represent the United States, Canada, Germany and England.
Fifteen finalists work in the collegiate ranks, six hold coaching roles at the high school level and four coach abroad. Two of the international coaching positions are in professional leagues. All participants will receive scholarships covering the costs of the Academy while they are in Tampa.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers academy scheduled for May 4-10
The Academy will take place May 4-10 at the AdventHealth Training Center in Tampa. Participants will attend team meetings and on-field coaching sessions with Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookies. Additional programming will include film review and breakdowns, media training, business insights and interactive networking opportunities.
The 2026 class will participate in masterclass sessions with Bruce Arians, Tony Dungy, Ronde Barber, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht. Since the Academy was established, it has received more than 3,000 applicants from 22 countries. The program is open to individuals with at least three years of coaching or football program experience at the high school, collegiate or semi-professional level.
“My staff and I look forward to welcoming and working alongside the newest class of the Buccaneers National Coaching Academy in the coming weeks,” said Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach Todd Bowles. “The Glazer family is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for deserving coaches, and we’ve set out to build something with lasting impact. The access, education and connections these coaches gain here are truly unique and will play a significant role in shaping their career paths.”
After the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ rookie minicamp, the coaching and front office staffs will select five top candidates to return for additional hands-on experience at training camp and the 2026 preseason.
Source: Original report