TAMPA — The Bucs' search to replace coach Lovie Smith is off and running, with the team confirming Friday that it will interview two up-and-coming candidates who have a history with GM Jason Licht over the weekend.
Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott and Cardinals offensive coordinator Harold Goodwin, both enjoying bye weeks before their teams open the playoffs next week as the NFC's top seeds, are the first candidates to interview with the Bucs.
The Bucs will also look hard at their offensive coordinator, Dirk Koetter, who Licht said was a "very strong candidate" during Thursday's news conference to address Smith's firing after going 8-24 in his two seasons.