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NFL Head Coaching Carousel: Vacancies, New Hires, and Team Updates for 2026
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The 2025 NFL season concluded with significant coaching changes across the league. Several teams have filled their head coaching positions, while others are still searching for the right fit. This article provides a comprehensive update on the NFL's head coaching carousel, including recent hires and remaining vacancies.
Key Insights
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Ten NFL teams will have new head coaches in the 2026 season, tying a record for coaching turnover in a single offseason. Why this matters: Significant coaching changes can dramatically alter team dynamics and future performance.
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The Buffalo Bills have promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach after firing Sean McDermott. Why this matters: Promoting from within can provide stability and continuity for a team with existing talent.
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As of January 27, 2026, the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, and Las Vegas Raiders are the remaining teams with head coaching vacancies. Why this matters: These teams face critical decisions that will shape their competitive trajectory in the coming seasons.
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The Green Bay Packers have multiple defensive position coach openings after Jeff Hafley, former Packers defensive coordinator, took the Miami Dolphins head coaching job and hired some of their staff. Why this matters: Coaching staff changes can impact team performance and defensive strategies.
In-Depth Analysis
Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL regular season and playoffs, numerous teams underwent significant changes in their coaching staff. Here's a breakdown of the key developments:
Recent Head Coaching Hires:
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Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski (formerly Cleveland Browns head coach)
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Baltimore Ravens: Jesse Minter (formerly Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator)
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Buffalo Bills: Joe Brady (formerly Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator)
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Miami Dolphins: Jeff Hafley (formerly Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator)
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New York Giants: John Harbaugh (formerly Baltimore Ravens head coach)
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Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike McCarthy (formerly Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers head coach)
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Tennessee Titans: Robert Saleh (former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator)
Remaining Head Coaching Vacancies:
1.
Arizona Cardinals
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Last head coach: Jonathan Gannon (fired)
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2025 finish: 3-14, last place in NFC West
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Last playoff appearance: 2021 season
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Draft position: No. 3 overall
2.
Cleveland Browns
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Last head coach: Kevin Stefanski (fired)
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2025 finish: 5-12, last place in AFC North
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Last playoff appearance: 2023 season
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Draft position: No. 6 overall
3.
Las Vegas Raiders
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Last head coach: Pete Carroll (fired)
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2025 finish: 3-14, last place in AFC West
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Last playoff appearance: 2021 season
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Draft position: No. 1 overall
The high number of coaching changes reflects the intense pressure on NFL teams to improve and compete for championships. The remaining vacancies present significant opportunities for coaches to lead teams with varying degrees of talent and resources.
FAQs
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Q: How many NFL teams will have new head coaches in 2026?
Ten teams will have new head coaches, tying a record for one offseason.
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Q: Which notable teams are still searching for a head coach?
The Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, and Las Vegas Raiders still have head coaching vacancies.
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Q: Why did the Buffalo Bills promote Joe Brady?
The Bills promoted their offensive coordinator to provide stability and continuity after firing Sean McDermott.
Key Takeaways
The NFL head coaching carousel is in full swing, with numerous teams making significant changes. For fans, this means new strategies, team dynamics, and potential shifts in competitiveness. Key actions to consider:
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Stay informed about the remaining coaching decisions, as these choices will shape the future of the Cardinals, Browns, and Raiders.
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Follow the performance of newly hired coaches to understand the impact of these changes on team performance.
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Understand that coaching changes are a critical part of the NFL landscape, influencing team success and player development.
Discussion
What impact do you think these coaching changes will have on the upcoming NFL season? Which of the remaining vacancies is the most attractive? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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