Allen & Gruden: Success Rewarded

On Tuesday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers retained General Manager Bruce Allen and Coach Jon Gruden. Both signed three-year contracts. This season, the Buccaneers logged a 9-7 ledger. They won the NFC South.

During their careers, Allen and Gruden have twice aligned. In Oakland, they amassed 64-38 record. In Tampa Bay, they chalked a 24-24 slate. With the Raiders, Allen and Gruden drafted Sebastian Janikowski, Jerry Porter, Jon Ritchie, Matt Stinchcomb, and Charles Woodson. With the Buccaneers, they selected Gaines Adams, Tim Massaquoi, Barrett Ruud, Alex Smith, and Carnell Williams.

Tampa Bay’s decision is correct. Allen and Gruden have succeeded. Gruden won Super Bowl XXXVII. He has accrued three division titles. He has secured three playoff appearances. Allen replenished Gruden’s talent. Allen and Gruden warranted retention. They have improved the Buccaneers. Firing them would have been detrimental.