AP source: Bucs to interview Panthers' Chudzinski

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - A person familiar with the situation says the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have received permission to interview Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski for their vacant head coaching position.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on Friday on the condition of anonymity because the process is supposed to remain confidential.

Chudzinski, who helped turn around Carolina's slumping offense in just one season, interviewed for openings with the Jaguars and Rams this month, but didn't get either job.

The Bucs fired coach Raheem Morris after finishing last in the NFC South.

Under Chudzinski, the Panthers finished seventh in the league on offense while setting a new franchise record for total yards in a season. The Panthers scored 47 touchdowns.