NFL Coaching Changes After the 2026 Regular Season

As the dust settles on the NFL's 2026 regular season, teams across the league are gearing up for a dynamic coaching carousel. With a wave of recent firings, including high-profile names like John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens and Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the race to secure the best coaching talent is intensifying. This article explores the latest developments in coaching searches and predictions for the coming weeks.

The Dismissals and Their Implications

The week following the end of the regular season was particularly eventful, with multiple franchises parting ways with their head coaches. The Cleveland Browns were one of the first to make a move, firing Kevin Stefanski just a day after interviewing him with the Baltimore Ravens. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals also cut ties with Jonathan Gannon, while retaining general manager Monti Ossenfort. This decision raises concerns for potential candidates who hope to gain personnel control, as a stable front office could be pivotal in attracting high-profile talent.

Top Candidates in the Running

Currently, various coaches are under consideration for the vacant positions:

• Vance Joseph: The Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator and former Arizona defensive coach is set to interview for the Cardinals' head coach position. Despite Arizona fans' mixed feelings towards another defensive-minded coach, Joseph's familiarity with the franchise and playoff experience make him a solid candidate.
• Jim Harbaugh: Recently fired by the Ravens, Harbaugh is generating interest from multiple teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, who have an open GM position that could attract his attention. With a talented roster and a winnable division, the Falcons present an enticing option.
• Jessee Minter: The Los Angeles Chargers' defensive coordinator has garnered attention from the Ravens after guiding a resilient Chargers defense. Minter's previous tenure in Baltimore adds to his appeal, positioning him as a standout candidate.
• Mike McDaniel: The Miami Dolphins recently parted ways with McDaniel as well but have retained interest in his innovative offensive strategies. Having previously worked with the Browns, McDaniel may be a respectable choice to revamp their offensive unit.
• Klint Kubiak: As the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, Kubiak is lauded for his offensive prowess and could fit well with the Las Vegas Raiders as they aim to utilize the No. 1 overall draft pick wisely in April.

Franchise Dynamics and Future Prospects

The dynamic of team franchises will play a significant role in the hiring process. For instance, the Falcons’ dual vacancies present a fresh start that could inspire confidence in Harbaugh and his approach to rebuilding. In contrast, teams like the Browns and Giants, which have retained their GMs, may face challenges in attracting the best candidates who prefer more autonomy.

The Steelers now face pressure to find a suitable replacement for Tomlin, whose departure marks the end of an era characterized by consistent winning seasons. With former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores in the mix, the Steelers have an opportunity to continue their tradition of stability. Flores’ previous experience in Pittsburgh positions him as a front-runner in the coaching search.

The Ongoing Search for Stability

More broadly, the uncertainty surrounding individual franchises will impact the overall quality of coaching hires this season. Organizations need leaders who can navigate both short- and long-term challenges effectively. For instance, the Titans boast a promising young quarterback with Cam Ward, making their head coaching position enticing despite an underwhelming roster. The connections between candidates and certain franchises will also be influential in securing their next coaches.

Conclusion: A Season of Significant Change

As the NFL races to fill its coaching vacancies, the diversity of available talent hints at a season of significant change. Each team's decision on who to hire will have lasting implications, not only for their immediate success but also for their future direction and identity. With the completion of interviews and ongoing discussions, it’s clear that the NFL coaching carousel is only just beginning to spin.