Bucs Interview Steelers’ Danny Smith for Special Teams Position

On Friday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers interviewed Danny Smith for their vacant special teams coordinator position. Smith is a veteran in the field, having spent the last 13 years as the special teams coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This interview follows the resignation of Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin earlier this week.

Bucs’ Search for Special Teams Leadership

Danny Smith marks the fifth candidate interviewed by the Buccaneers since terminating Thomas McGaughey on January 8. With a remarkable 25-season track record as a special teams coordinator, Smith began his career with the Buffalo Bills from 2001 to 2003, followed by a stint with the Washington Redskins from 2004 to 2012.

Smith’s Coaching Experience

Overall, Danny Smith’s coaching career spans 50 years, starting as a graduate assistant in 1976 at Edinboro State. His extensive background includes significant roles at various colleges, including Clemson, William & Mary, and Georgia Tech—where he coached numerous positions.

• Key Coaching Tenure:
  • Buffalo Bills: Special Teams Coordinator (2001-2003)
  • Washington Redskins: Special Teams Coordinator (2004-2012)
  • Pittsburgh Steelers: Special Teams Coordinator (2013-2025)
• Coaching Positions in College:
  • Edinboro State: Graduate Assistant (1976)
  • Georgia Tech: Position Coach (1987-1994)

Performance Metrics with Steelers

During his tenure with the Steelers, Smith oversaw a special teams unit known for its effectiveness. In 2025, Pittsburgh excelled in multiple areas:

• Ranked sixth in punt return average yards allowed (7.0).
• Ranked eighth in kickoff yards (25.2).
• Opponent average drive start was the 29.0-yard line, the fifth-best in the NFL.
• Allowed an average drive start of the 28.4-yard line, second-best leaguewide.
• Punt coverage unit gave up only one return longer than 20 yards.

Star kicker Chris Boswell thrived under Smith, converting 27 of 32 field goal attempts during the 2025 season. Notably, he successfully kicked nine of 11 attempts from 50 yards or more. Boswell has been recognized as a Pro Bowler multiple times and was named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro last season.

Conclusion

As the Buccaneers seek to bolster their special teams unit, Danny Smith’s extensive experience and proven track record could make him a strong asset as they look to refine their strategies and improve their performance in the upcoming season.