An explanation has surfaced for why Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles appeared to be in pain at the end of his team’s upset win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Bowles dropped to a knee and seemed to grimace as his team was running out the clock against the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex. The shot caused concern among some fans, wondering if Bowles was facing some sort of health issue.
Todd Bowles after Tampa Bay survived: https://t.co/mBY25K37k8
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 9, 2026
Bowles indicated that he simply took a helmet to the gut as part of a celebration, which left him somewhat winded.
I’m told that Todd Bowles is OK. Several of you asked. I was concerned as well. I’m not in Dallas but just heard back. He said he caught a celebration helmet to the gut but says he’ll be OK. That’s why he was crouched over like this. https://t.co/cDwSSsAETj
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) October 9, 2026
Bowles showed no indication of feeling bad after the game, backing the assertion that the problem was a temporary one.
NFL sidelines can be a very hazardous place, especially for coaches who aren’t wearing pads like the players are. We have seen some serious injuries happen in accidents even this year. Fortunately, Bowles appears to be no worse for wear after this one.
