Tampa Bay Decides On Williamson

Richard Williamson was named coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers today, ending speculation that former Philadelphia Eagles Coach Buddy Ryan might get the job.

Williamson, named interim coach after Ray Perkins was fired late in the season, was the choice of owner Hugh Culverhouse, who last week interviewed Ryan, New York Giants defensive coordinator Bill Belichick and Miami Dolphins quarterback coach Gary Stevens.

“You ask me why?” asked Culverhouse. “I say he’s the best man for the job at this time.”

Williamson, in becoming the Bucs’ fourth head coach, guided Tampa Bay to a 1-2 record over the final three games of the 1990 season. The Bucs finished at 6-10 for their eighth consecutive losing season.

Williamson, who came to Tampa Bay as receivers coach in 1987 after serving as an assistant at Kansas City, was assistant head coach last season before Perkins left with a 19-41 record.

Culverhouse also announced that Phil Krueger, assistant to the owner, was named to the new post of general manager.

Williamson was given a two-year contract. Culverhouse refused to divulge details of the contract but said it includes bonuses for division and conference titles.

“I assured him if we have results, it would become almost a lifetime contract,” the owner said.

Culverhouse had first pursued former San Francisco 49ers head Coach Bill Walsh, but Walsh opted the retain his job as a football analyst for NBC.

After completing his series of interviews, the owner decided to stay with Williamson, a favorite of the players praised particularly by quarterback Vinny Testaverde.

“It’s not like I’m coming into a situation where I’m brand new,” Williamson said. “I know these guys and know what they can do.”

Williamson had a 31-35 record in his only previous head coaching job, at Memphis State from 1975 to 1980.