League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Todd Bowles faces criticism amid Buccaneers' slow start and injury concerns

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 11:00 PM

Last updated Sep 21, 2026

Todd Bowles faces criticism amid Buccaneers' slow start and injury concerns

Summary

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 0-2 after defeats by the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns. Coach Todd Bowles is under fire for his handling of rookie defensive end Rueben Bain Jr., who has claimed he is not injured despite Bowles' doubts. Fans are expressing frustration over Bain's performance and his continued starting position. With a struggling defense allowing 28 points per game, questions arise about Bowles' decisions and the team's overall direction. The Buccaneers will look to improve as they prepare for their next matchup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Buccaneers are 0-2 after losses to Bengals and Browns.
•Bain insists he is not injured, conflicting with Bowles' assessment.
•Fans criticize Bain's performance and starting position.
•Defense ranked 15th, allowing 28 points per game.
•Upcoming matchup critical for team morale and Bowles' future.

Latest Updates

5:34 AMYahoo Sports — Buccaneers HC Bowles Claims Rueben Bain Jr. Isn't ‘Completely Healthy’
11:00 PMYahoo Sports — ‘He Should Not Be Starting,’ ‘What Are We Doing?’ — Buccaneers Fans React to HC Todd Bowles Contradicting Rueben Bain Jr. Over Injury Status

What they're saying

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have gotten off to a surprisingly poor start this season. After losing to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1, they fell to the Cleveland Browns in their home opener in a dreadful performance.
— Yahoo Sports