Coach Bruce Arians To Go Down In Bucs History, Joining Ring Of Honor

TAMPA, FL — He's no Frank Sinatra, who coined the phrase, "I Did it My Way," in the song of the same name. Nevertheless, during a news conference Thursday, newly appointed Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles told reporters that he intends to take his cue from "Old Blue Eyes" and "do things my way."

He acknowledged that he has pretty big shoes to fill, stepping in for Bruce Arians, arguably one of the most winning coaches in NFL history.

"He will sorely be missed," Bowles said. "He's been in my life for four decades. He's the most influential figure I've had or will ever have in my history in the league."

Although the Bucs missed their chance for a return trip to the Super Bowl in 2022, Bowles said he's confident the team will do it again.

"We're going to get this train moving in the right direction," he said.

As for succeeding Arians, Bowles said, "I feel very humbled. I feel very honored. To be even considered for the opportunity is really a blessing."

He said he's especially grateful to Arians' leadership in creating an NFL franchise that's on the forefront of diversity.

"Being a person of color, you want to get hired for your ability," he said. "But as a kid, to see some people like us in these places and these jobs, gives hope to a lot of people. You understand the impact it has on their lives. You've got to credit Bruce for giving everyone a chance, but you have to be a good coach first."

See related story: Arians Steps Aside As Bucs Head Coach, Names Bowles His Successor

Franchise owner Joel Glazer said Arians made some ambitious promises when he was hired as head coach of the Bucs in January 2019, and he lived up to them.

"I don't think any of us here expected what has transpired over the last years," Glazer said. "He promised to take us to the Super Bowl, and he did, making history right here in Tampa Bay. So many people talk the talk, but Bruce put his thoughts and his beliefs into action, and has always led the way in opening doors that needed to be opened."

Before handing the microphone over to Bucs General Manager Jason Licht, Glazer announced that Arians will be inducted into the Bucs' Ring of Honor this season.

Arians will join a select group of 14 Ring of Honor members when his name is added to the honor roll at Raymond James Stadium that includes head coaches John McKay and Tony Dungy, Lee Roy Selmon, Warren Sapp, Derrick Brooks, Mike Alstott, John Lynch and Rone Barber as well as the late Malcolm Glazer.

Licht recalled his first time meeting Arians when Arians was being considered for head coach of the Cardinals in Arizona in 2013.

"You told me you were going to be the coolest coach I ever worked with, and you are," Licht said, addressing Arians directly. "You told me to buckle up because it's going to be one hell of a ride, and it has been. And you said you were going to set the culture with trust, loyalty and respect, and you did."

The 66-year-old Arians, wearing his trademark newsboy cap and holding an unlit cigar, was matter of fact about his decision to step down as head coach and take on the role of consultant in the franchise office alongside Licht.

"When you know it's time, it's time. And there's no better time than right now," he said.

Bowles, who neither smokes nor drinks, said he can't promise he'll be as cool as Arians.

"I may not be the coolest guy you'll ever meet, but I'm pretty damn chill," he said.