Jenna Laine of ESPN shared a lighthearted moment involving new Tampa Bay Buccaneers special teams coordinator Danny Smith after his recent media availability.
After finishing the press conference, Smith joked that speaking to reporters was “worse than going to the dentist,” later explaining he had actually gone to the dentist the day before and that was the first comparison that came to mind.
The moment felt pretty on-brand for a longtime football coach known more for energy, intensity, and relationships with players than polished podium appearances. Smith came across less like someone interested in winning over a press conference and more like a coach focused on the locker room itself.
That old-school personality is likely part of why he has remained respected around the league for so long. Coaches with Smith’s background tend to connect through preparation, accountability, and emotion rather than public-facing soundbites.
Nothing about the interaction came off as disrespectful. If anything, it reinforced the idea that Smith is far more comfortable coaching players on the field than standing behind a microphone discussing himself publicly.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs special teams coordinator pokes fun at having to speak to media
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

