Buccaneers coaching rumors: Tim Spencer to join Lovie Smith as running backs coach?

The coaching rumors are coming in quickly, now: Tim Spencer may be the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' next running backs coach.

Tim Spencer, BTW, told me he's planning to rejoin Lovie Smith in Tampa next season.

— Jeff Rapp (@RappUp) January 4, 2014

Spencer spent Lovie Smith's entire tenure in Chicago, from 2004 through 2012, as the running backs coach. Marc Trestman didn't retain when he took the job, however. Spencer was a fullback and running back for six seasons in the late 1980s for the San Diego Chargers, racking up 1,792 yards on 474 carries.

Spencer will replace Earnest Byner, who is arguably the best running backs coach in the NFL.

Chicago Bears running backs had five 1,000-yard rushing seasons under Spencer, with Thomas Jones and Matt Forte being the most successful players to play under his guidance. He did not manage to turn high first-round pick Cedric Benson into a productive back with the Bears, however.

Spencer will get to coach a stable of very talented running backs in Tampa, including Doug Martin, Mike James, Jeff Demps and Bobby Rainey.

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