NFL Coaching Changes Begin: Giants Hire John Harbaugh

The NFL's coaching carousel is off to a tumultuous start in 2026, with the New York Giants leading the charge by hiring John Harbaugh on a five-year contract. This hiring marks the beginning of a significant period for the league, as head coach vacancies have surged dramatically. With over 25% of head coaching positions now open following Mike Tomlin's departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the league has once again witnessed a trend reminiscent of the upheaval seen in 2009, where a third of coaches were let go.

Available Coaching Jobs: The Landscape

As organizations scramble to fill their head coaching vacancies, all positions vary significantly in terms of appeal. Each job opportunity has its strengths, such as talented rosters, available salary cap space, and ample draft picks. However, the negatives—like quarterback issues, roster gaps, and front office uncertainties—also weigh heavily on the decisions of potential candidates. Let’s dive into a ranking of the open jobs, from the least to the most desirable.

Cleveland Browns: A Tough Sell

Starting at the bottom of our list is the Cleveland Browns, a franchise that has long struggled with inconsistency. The team’s offensive roster is riddled with challenges, from an aging and ineffective offensive line to a lack of talent in skill positions. The quarterback situation is dire, and, following the repercussions of the Deshaun Watson trade, the Browns are facing a stark salary cap dilemma—currently over $15 million in the red. This combination of factors painted a bleak picture for prospective head coaches, but the unwavering loyalty of Browns fans endures.

Arizona Cardinals: Some Hope, But Many Challenges

Next on the list are the Arizona Cardinals, who have retained their general manager despite a history of losing seasons. While potential exists with young talents like Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr., the uncertainty at quarterback looms large, especially with speculation regarding moving on from Kyler Murray. Additionally, the Cardinals face formidable competition in their division with established teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, making the road to success seem daunting.

Miami Dolphins: Cap Problems and Quarterback Quandaries

The Miami Dolphins come in next, inheriting their own share of struggles. Following the benching of Tua Tagovailoa, they face a complex quarterback situation, compounded by a challenging salary cap scenario. With approximately $24 million in the red against the projected cap and a new general manager to bring in, the Dolphins’ future looks uncertain. Despite some bright spots on the roster, including standout players like De'Von Achane, the upcoming season appears more likely to be one of rebuilding rather than contention.

Las Vegas Raiders: Room for Growth

While the Las Vegas Raiders have the third-most cap space (nearly $90 million) and the top draft pick in 2026, they also bear the burden of last season's poor performance. Although excitement surrounds potential high-impact prospects, there are significant deficiencies on both offense and defense that need immediate attention. The presence of new ownership involving Tom Brady adds a layer of prestige, but transformation is essential for the team to improve.

Tennessee Titans: A Mixed Bag

Coming in the middle of the rankings, the Tennessee Titans possess budding potential with quarterback Cam Ward, but the team's recent history of losses casts a shadow over the position. Holding the fourth overall draft pick and ample cap space, the team has the resources to tap into, yet the burgeoning challenges presented by ascending divisional rivals complicates the coaching outlook.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Legacy vs. Expectations

Among the more desirable jobs is undoubtedly the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a storied history and incredible patience shown to head coaches, this position comes with immense expectations. The Steelers need a leader capable of navigating a roster that requires significant reclamation. A pivotal quarterback situation and an aging defense mean that the new coach must address systemic issues while upholding the franchise’s proud legacy.

Atlanta Falcons: Promising Young Talent

Despite parting with coach Raheem Morris after another missed playoff bid, the Atlanta Falcons present an interesting opportunity. With budding stars like Bijan Robinson and Drake London on the roster, along with significant improvements in pass rush, the foundation for growth is evident. However, injury-prone quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and limited cap space somewhat diminish the attractiveness of this position.

Baltimore Ravens: The Pinnacle of Opportunity

At the top of the list, the Baltimore Ravens stand out as the most attractive head coaching vacancy. With a two-time MVP quarterback in Lamar Jackson, the Ravens are seen as perennial Super Bowl contenders. Nevertheless, the pressure to win immediately and address critical flaws across the roster makes this an intense and high-stakes opportunity for the incoming coach. The combination of a top-tier quarterback and the high standards of the Ravens organization creates a unique challenge and allure for potential candidates.

Conclusion: The Coaching Landscape Ahead

As the NFL enters a new era with these coaching vacancies, the decisions made by franchise owners will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the futures of these teams. From the turmoil in Cleveland to the optimism in Baltimore, each job has its unique hurdles. Candidates looking for their next challenge must weigh these factors carefully as they contemplate the potential head coaching opportunities ahead in 2026.