Dirk Koetter returning to Buccaneers next season

Dirk Koetter was viewed as a coach on the hot seat, but apparently he will live to see another year.

The Tampa Bay Times’ Rick Stroud reported on Friday that Koetter has been informed by Bucs ownership that he will be back to coach Tampa Bay next season.

There was speculation that Koetter’s job could be in jeopardy amid a disappointing 4-11 season. However, ownership apparently understood that Jameis Winston’s shoulder injury was a big factor in the team not winning many games, so they’re willing to give Koetter another year.

Each of Koetter’s predecessors — Greg Schiano and Lovie Smith — were only given two years, so Koetter is bucking the trend.

This also should end some of the rumors about Jon Gruden returning to coach the Bucs next season.