The longest-tenured quarterback in Bucs history is transitioning into a coaching career.
Former Tampa Bay backup Ryan Griffin, who spent time in the Bucs’ quarterback room from 2015 to 2022, has been hired by the Chicago Bears as an offensive assistant, the team announced Friday. He will be working with the quarterback and wide receivers.
Brian Bing and Ryan Griffin join Bears coaching staff
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) February 23, 2024
Ryan Griffin reaches coaching position after long tenure with Bucs
Bucks QB Ryan Griffin – Photo courtesy of USA Today
Ryan Griffin originally came to Tampa on waivers in 2015. The former Tulane quarterback served as a backup to Jameis Winston and Mike Glennon in 2015 and 2016, and was the third man behind Winston and Ryan Fitzpatrick in 2018.
Griffin served as Winston’s backup in 2019, the year he finally made his NFL debut. He briefly replaced the injured Winston in the Week 14 game against the Colts, completing 2 of 4 passes for 18 yards.
When Tom Brady and Blaine Gabbert arrived in 2020, Griffin was there to complete the room. And of course, I remember him being there to guide a tipsy Brady to safety. days after the team’s victory over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LV, following the team’s victory boat parade.
After Tampa Bay selected Kyle Trask in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Griffin was demoted to the practice squad. He spent two seasons there, and his long tenure with the Bucks finally comes to an end with the 2022 season.
The team chose to go in a different direction. Bring in John Wolford as the third quarterback.
Griffin recently signed with Scorpions Varese of the Italian Football League, but the longtime quarterback room favorite is now taking the next step in his soccer journey.
Unfortunately for Griffin’s former teammates in Tampa, the Bucs and Bears are currently not scheduled to meet again until the 2026 season.