Bucs release OC Tedford from contract

Tampa, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have announced that the team has released offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford from his contractual obligations in order to allow him to pursue other opportunities.

Tedford, in his first year as Tampa Bay's offensive coordinator under head coach Lovie Smith, left the team to have a heart procedure during the preseason, and was on an indefinite medical leave of absence since late September.

"Throughout these difficult circumstances, our primary concern was for Jeff���s health and well-being," said Smith. "After speaking with Jeff in recent days, it became obvious that a mutual decision to release him from his contract was the best way forward. We wish Jeff continued success in the next phase of his career."

In a statement, Tedford said, "My wife and I want to thank the entire Buccaneers organization -- from the Glazer family, to head coach Lovie Smith and general manager Jason Licht -- for all the faith and confidence they expressed in me. I will always be grateful to them for the opportunity to participate in the offseason program, the draft, free agency, training camp, the preseason and the beginning of the regular season. I have built friendships here with administration, coaches and players that will last a lifetime."

Prior to joining an NFL coaching staff for the first time this season, Tedford spent 11 seasons as the head coach of California and left as the winningest coach in school history. He posted a record of 82-57 from 2002-12, with the Golden Bears earning eight bowl bids.