The NFL’s hunt for new head coaches is officially in full swing, with five teams making headlines as they seek to turn missed potential into future success. This year’s search includes the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars. These organizations share more than just poor performance on the field; they all faced untapped potential and made decisive moves to start fresh.
The Timing of the Search
Three teams—Chicago, New Orleans, and the New York Jets—made their coaching changes mid-season, taking early steps to reboot their franchises. Meanwhile, the Patriots and Jaguars joined the frenzy during the NFL’s infamous “Black Monday,” when coaching axings sweep across the league. However, the process is far from straightforward. The most desirable candidates are often part of playoff-bound teams, meaning they’re unavailable for formal interviews until their current season concludes. Even for those not in the playoffs, candidates currently under contract with other teams require approval from their organizations before they can engage in discussions.
A Snapshot of the Candidates
Each team’s list of prospective head coaches is packed with intriguing names, from veteran leaders to rising stars. Here’s a closer look at the contenders and the potential directions each team might take:
Chicago Bears
The Bears’ coaching wishlist reflects a desire for innovation and leadership. Key names include:
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Mike Vrabel: Former Tennessee Titans coach, known for his disciplined approach.
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Joe Brady*: Offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, a proven offensive mind.
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Pete Carroll: The experienced former Seahawks coach who brings a wealth of knowledge.
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Ben Johnson*: Detroit Lions offensive coordinator who has helped craft a dynamic offense.
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Aaron Glenn*: Lions defensive coordinator, a strategic defensive thinker.
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Brian Flores*: Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator with a history of resilience.
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Arthur Smith*: Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator, blending innovation with consistency.
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Thomas Brown: Interim head coach for the Bears, offering continuity.
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Anthony Weaver: Dolphins defensive coordinator with a fresh defensive approach.
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Mike Kafka: New York Giants offensive coordinator, known for adaptability.
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Drew Petzing: Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator.
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Todd Monken*: Ravens offensive coordinator, a sought-after name.
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David Shaw*: Broncos senior personnel executive and former Stanford head coach.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are focused on young, offensive-minded coaches to complement their franchise quarterback. Top candidates include:
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Kellen Moore*: Eagles offensive coordinator, praised for his QB development skills.
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Todd Monken*: Ravens offensive coordinator, bringing creativity to the table.
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Joe Brady*: Bills offensive coordinator, another QB-friendly choice.
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Liam Coen*: Buccaneers offensive coordinator with a modern approach.
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Ben Johnson*: Lions offensive coordinator with a proven offensive track record.
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Aaron Glenn*: Lions defensive coordinator.
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Patrick Graham: Raiders defensive coordinator.
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Robert Saleh: Former Jets head coach, offering leadership experience.
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Brian Flores*: Vikings defensive coordinator.
Las Vegas Raiders
Looking to spark a turnaround, the Raiders have their eyes on:
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Ben Johnson*: Lions offensive coordinator with an impressive track record.
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Aaron Glenn*: Lions defensive coordinator with a strong defensive mindset.
New England Patriots
For a team known for discipline, the Patriots are considering a mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces:
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Pep Hamilton: Former Colts offensive coordinator.
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Bryon Leftwich: Former Buccaneers offensive coordinator.
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Mike Vrabel: Former Titans coach, a logical fit given his history with the franchise.
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Ben Johnson*: Lions offensive coordinator, who has quickly risen to prominence.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints’ search leans on their interim leadership while exploring other experienced options:
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Mike Vrabel: Former Titans coach.
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Davis Webb*: Broncos quarterbacks coach with a deep understanding of offense.
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Aaron Glenn*: Lions defensive coordinator and former Saints staff member.
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Joe Brady*: Bills offensive coordinator, another innovative mind.
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Mike Kafka: Former Giants coach, experienced and adaptable.
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Anthony Weaver: Dolphins defensive coordinator.
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Kellen Moore*: Eagles offensive coordinator.
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David Shaw*: Former Stanford head coach with a wealth of experience.
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Darren Rizzi: Current interim Saints head coach, a steady hand.
New York Jets
The Jets’ list of candidates suggests a desire to reconnect with their past while embracing fresh ideas:
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Ron Rivera: Former Commanders and Panthers coach, a proven leader.
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Rex Ryan: A return to a fan favorite and former Jets head coach.
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Darren Rizzi*: Interim Saints head coach.
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Vance Joseph: Broncos defensive coordinator.
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Bobby Slowik*: Texans offensive coordinator.
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Joe Brady*: Bills offensive coordinator.
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Jeff Ulbrich: Jets interim head coach, offering continuity.
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Brian Griese: 49ers quarterbacks coach with fresh insights.
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Arthur Smith*: Steelers offensive coordinator.
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Josh McCown*: Vikings quarterbacks coach.
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Aaron Glenn*: Lions defensive coordinator.
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Matt Nagy*: Chiefs offensive coordinator, with prior head coaching experience.
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Brian Flores*: Vikings defensive coordinator.
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Steve Spagnuolo*: Chiefs defensive coordinator.
What Lies Ahead
As these teams navigate their coaching searches, the stakes are high. Hiring the right head coach can mean the difference between years of mediocrity and building a championship contender. With so many exciting candidates in the mix, the process will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
For now, teams must balance urgency with patience as they wait for playoff candidates to become available and secure permissions for interviews. The decisions made in the coming weeks will shape the futures of these franchises, making it a pivotal moment in the NFL calendar. Whether they opt for established leaders or take a chance on rising stars, one thing is clear: change is coming.
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