The Buccaneers interviewed former Colts defensive coordinator Ted Monachino for their vacant defensive line coach position on Wednesday, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times (Twitter link).
Head coach Dirk Koetter & Co. fired ex-defensive line coach Jay Hayes last week, and Monachino is the first known candidate to take over the job. At present, it’s unclear whether Monachino was offered the role following his interview, or if Tampa Bay plans to interview more contenders before making a decision, per Stroud.
Monachino, 51, had been Indianapolis’ defensive play-caller for the past two seasons, but wasn’t retained when the Colts hired a new coaching staff. Indy finished as a bottom-six defense in DVOA during both of Monachino’s years at the helm, but given the Colts’ lack of talent on the defensive side of the ball, blame can’t be laid solely at Monachino’s feet. A longtime NFL and collegiate coach, Monachino has also spent time with the Jaguars and Ravens.
Tampa Bay’s defensive line was even worse than Indianapolis’ in 2017, as the Bucs finished dead last in both sacks and adjusted sack rate. As such, adding extra pass rushers figures to be one of Tampa’s top priorities this offseason.