How the Bucs' loss could affect future of the team

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) drops back to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during a wild-card game at Raymond James Stadium. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

How the Bucs' playoff loss could affect the future of the team

By Max Steele | Last updated 1/17/23

We might've just seen the last of Tom Brady in a Buccaneers uniform. Or any uniform for that matter.

Tampa Bay's long-shot playoff dreams were proven unrealistic in a 31-14 blowout loss to the Dallas Cowboys during the final game of Super Wild Card Weekend. A dark cloud now hangs over the franchise as they enter the offseason.

The Bucs looked like the unimpressive 8-9 team they've been playing as all season.

The porous defensive unit was exposed by Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott's 305 passing yards and five total touchdowns, including a wide-open lob to CeeDee Lamb.

#DallasCowboys' offense > Buccaneers' defense

(: @NFL) pic.twitter.com/aBpmInDTp7
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) January 17, 2023

Tampa Bay's offense struggled on all cylinders, failing to establish a run game and convert third downs.

Not only did Brady experience his first career loss to the Cowboys, but he snapped his NFL record with a red zone interception for the first time since 2019 with the Patriots (410 attempts).

The home crowd was so disappointed that many of them left with over 10 minutes still left in the game.

Some Buccaneers fans have seen enough. Even with Tom Brady at quarterback and more than 10 minutes remaining in playoff game, they are leaving. Cowboys lead 31-6. pic.twitter.com/VYw5HjtPnj
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) January 17, 2023

The Bucs' season is officially over, and now decisions must be made.

Brady's return to Tampa Bay looks gloomy after such a a frustrating season. Other NFL teams have already announced they plan to pursue him in the offseason.

He could also be inclined to give retirement another shot, as he's got a $375M commentating deal with FOX Sports waiting for him.

Without a clear heir to the throne, the Bucs could be hurting behind center if Brady decides to move on.

As for now, the veteran quarterback said the only thing on his mind is his bed.

“I’m gonna go home and get a good night’s sleep. … One day at a time.”

Tom Brady on what’s next

(via @Buccaneers) pic.twitter.com/DXmzXCQS6a
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 17, 2023

But Brady's future won't be the only hard-hitting decision made in Tampa.

Bucs' head coach Todd Bowles, who's expected to return as the team's leader next season, will have the ability to make coaching staff changes for the first time since assuming his position this season, according to Tampa Bay Times.

Bowles will surely take a look at offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich, whose name trends on Twitter after Tampa Bay losses thanks to disgruntled fans.

With looming questions and possible changes across the board, the Bucs may somehow have a more intriguing offseason than ever before.

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