As the 2025 offseason begins for the 18 NFL teams that did not qualify for the playoffs, the coaching landscape has become a focal point. On Black Monday, only two head coaches, Doug Pederson of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Jerod Mayo from the New England Patriots, were dismissed, leaving others breathing a sigh of relief. While some coaches may still face ramifications as the offseason progresses, many will likely find themselves under scrutiny in what could be a pivotal year for their tenures. However, the level of pressure varies significantly between them, prompting a closer examination of the coaches remaining in their roles.

The Miami Dolphins had a tumultuous season, transitioning from one of the most exciting teams in the NFL to an inconsistent contender. Head coach Mike McDaniel must now demonstrate that the disappointing performance in 2024 was merely an anomaly. After joining the Dolphins in 2022, he infused optimism into the franchise, leading the team to a 9-8 record and their first playoff appearance since 2016. The 2023 season saw Miami develop the league's top offense, averaging over 400 yards and nearly 30 points per game with an 11-6 finish. However, their playoff campaign was cut short by the Kansas City Chiefs in the Wild Card Round, and in 2024, the Dolphins faced challenges, finishing 8-9 while struggling offensively. Tua Tagovailoa's absence due to injuries and a regression in their running game contributed to the downturn. With whispers of dissatisfaction from star receiver Tyreek Hill regarding the playoffs, McDaniel's seat is considered warm as he seeks to rejuvenate the Dolphins in the upcoming season.

The Dallas Cowboys ended a disappointing 2024 season with a 7-10 record, prompting questions regarding the future of head coach Mike McCarthy. Under McCarthy's guidance, Dallas had previously enjoyed three consecutive 12-5 seasons and playoff berths, but this latest regression raises doubts. Team owner Jerry Jones has publicly praised McCarthy, calling him one of the best coaches, yet this season’s decline and absence of deep playoff runs may spur a change. McCarthy's contract negotiation window is limited, with reports of interest from the Chicago Bears in interviewing him for their vacant head coaching role. Although there are indications that McCarthy may return, failing to advance in the playoffs next year could mean the end of his tenure in Dallas, marking his seat as warm for the moment.

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski began his tenure with significant promise, winning Coach of the Year honors in his inaugural season. However, after leading the team to its first playoff victory since 1994, the franchise's trajectory declined. Stefanski has faced considerable challenges, dealing with quarterback issues and salary cap constraints. Although he managed an 11-6 record with a playoff berth last year, the 2024 season saw the Browns stumble to a 3-14 record after sustaining injuries to Deshaun Watson once again. The inability to create a competitive roster alongside Watson's inconsistent performances has put Stefanski on precarious footing. With lingering contract issues surrounding Watson, the Browns may opt for a coaching change if Stefanski cannot produce a respectable season in 2025, solidifying his seat as hot.

After two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, head coach Shane Steichen is under pressure to guide the team to a playoff berth. The Colts previously exceeded expectations with a 9-8 record during Steichen's debut season, yet they regressed to 8-9 and are faced with similar uncertainties. One of the core challenges has been the development of quarterback Anthony Richardson, whom the Colts selected fourth overall. Despite showing potential, Richardson's performance in 2024 was disappointing, leading to questions about Steichen's ability to maximize his talents. With the Colts lacking alternative options for the quarterback position, Steichen's future is closely tied to Richardson's development as both will enter a critical 2025 season. Failure to secure a playoff spot could result in a new regime in Indianapolis, marking Steichen’s status as hot.

Brian Daboll's trajectory has notably declined in a short span, transitioning from a promising coach to one whose job appears to be in jeopardy. Although Daboll led the New York Giants to their first winning season since 2016 and a playoff victory, subsequent seasons have been marred by questionable personnel decisions and disappointing performances. The Giants' decision to extend quarterback Daniel Jones while allowing running back Saquon Barkley to leave has backfired, with Jones struggling and ultimately sustained a season-ending injury in 2023, leading to a 6-11 finish. The culmination of these issues resulted in an abysmal 3-14 season. Given Daboll’s offensive expertise and his prior success with quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Jalen Hurts, the Giants' struggles to maintain competitive offensive rankings are concerning. With the No. 3 overall pick available in the upcoming draft, Daboll has a final opportunity to turn the tide, but immediate improvement in 2025 is vital to prolong his stay. His seat is currently red hot.

Antonio Pierce faces a challenging 2025 season as the Las Vegas Raiders' head coach following a disappointing 4-13 campaign. Although Pierce retains his position after an up-and-down tenure, immediate improvements are necessary for him to remain at the helm. Following the midseason dismissal of Josh McDaniels, Pierce managed a respectable 5-4 record, but the subsequent drop-off in performance has raised alarms. After a promising start to the 2024 season, the Raiders succumbed to a 10-game losing streak, with their defense revealing significant weaknesses, culminating in more than 25 points allowed per game. With a rebuild of both the offense and defense required, Pierce's ability to demonstrate progress will be critical to extending his tenure beyond the 2025 season, indicating a red hot status for his position.