Kacy Rodgers

Rodgers is a long-time defensive line coach who most recently worked with the Buccaneers from 2019-2024. Former Lions defensive line coach Terrelle Williams recently left to become the Patriots’ defensive coordinator, which opened the door for Rodgers to join the staff. Rodgers added defensive run game coordinator to his title in 2022, and saw his run defense rank in the top-10 in yards per attempt in two of his three seasons. He’ll now get a fresh start as the Lions’ DL coach, and could also see a similar coordinator position with his new team.

Rodgers was named a co-defensive coordinator for the Buccaneers in 2022, but the unit has struggled over the last few years and Tampa Bay may need to make some face-saving changes along the staff. The Buccaneers still allowed only 4.3 yards per carry, 10th-best in the NFL in 2024. The secondary was the bigger issue. Rapoport adds that Rodgers is “viewed as a top free agent assistant who will have a robust market.” Green Bay fired their defensive line coach, Jason Rebrovich, after they lost to the Packers in the Wild Card Round.

It is mostly just window dressing, as new head coach Todd Bowles will remain his own defensive play-caller. Both Rodgers and Foote are longtime Bruce Arians/Bowles assistants. Save for Arians, the Bucs have complete coaching staff continuity following their lead man's retirement. Bowles is one of the brighter defensive minds in the game. Rodgers or Foote could soon become head-coaching candidates.