Historic shake-up: 10 NFL coaches either fired or resign this season, matching league record

This NFL season is seeing a historic wave of coaching changes, with ten teams expecting new leadership. As the playoffs unfold, the reality of the pressure faced by head coaches is underscored, with many being let go post-season. The implications of these decisions are significant, both strategically and financially for the teams involved.

Coaching Changes in the NFL

The current NFL season has already witnessed a record tied, with ten different franchises planning coaching changes. This marks only the fifth time in league history that such a high turnover has occurred, adding to seasons from 2022, 2006, 1997, and 1978.

While two coaches from the 2022 hiring spree—Kevin O’Connell of Minnesota and Todd Bowles of Tampa Bay—remain in their roles, both are under scrutiny after lackluster finishes to the season. Meanwhile, there are 20 other coaches who have retained their positions, while others face uncertainty.

Coaches Dismissed Mid-Season

Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans

After a disappointing start to the season, the Tennessee Titans decided to part ways with Brian Callahan, who had only coached the team for 23 games with a record of 4-19. The franchise, which held the top pick in last year’s draft, expected more than a 1-5 beginning. The Titans finished the season tied for the worst record in the league, ending at 3-14.

Brian Daboll, New York Giants

Once hailed for his successful inaugural season, Brian Daboll’s tenure with the New York Giants came to an end after a series of disappointing results. Despite a playoff appearance in 2022, his team struggled, concluding the season at 3-14. Daboll’s overall record after three seasons stands at 20-40-1.

Black Monday: A Day of Reckoning for Coaches

Black Monday, the day after the NFL regular season concludes, often results in several coaching dismissals. This year was no exception, as five coaches lost their jobs, reflecting the high stakes of NFL coaching positions.

Pete Carroll, Las Vegas Raiders

Pete Carroll, renowned for his successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, found his return to coaching at the Raiders disappointing. Despite a surprising early win against the Patriots, the Raiders finished the season at 3-14, leading to Carroll’s dismissal after just one year in Las Vegas.

Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals

Jonathan Gannon saw his fortunes decline after an initial season of promise with the Arizona Cardinals. After a 4-13 finish in his first season and an 8-9 record the following year, a disastrous 3-14 season led to his firing. His tenure culminated in a 15-36 record over three seasons.

John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens

John Harbaugh, who had been the face of the Ravens since 2008 and guided them to a Super Bowl, was let go after a heartbreaking loss in the final game of the regular season. With a remarkable record of 180-113, he quickly became a sought-after coaching candidate, eventually signing with the Giants.

Raheem Morris, Atlanta Falcons

Raheem Morris was let go following a mediocre season that resulted in an 8-9 record, keeping the Falcons in contention but failing to secure a playoff spot. His time with the team ended with an overall record of 16-18 following his previous interim coaching stint.

Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland Browns

Kevin Stefanski’s departure from the Cleveland Browns comes after a tenure marked by both promise and inconsistency. Despite leading the team to an 11-5 record in his first year, subsequent seasons saw limited success, culminating in his firing on Black Monday. He was quickly signed by the Falcons as their new head coach.

Coaches Departing During the Playoffs

Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins

Mike McDaniel’s innovative approach energized the Miami Dolphins, leading to two playoff appearances in his first two years. However, a mid-season slump ultimately led to a 7-10 finish this year and his subsequent firing on January 8, despite assisting in finding a new general manager during his final days with the team.

Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers

After a brief playoff run this year, Mike Tomlin announced he would step down from his role as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. His 193 regular-season wins and a Super Bowl title underscore his successful tenure since 2007.

Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills

Sean McDermott’s impressive record of leading the Buffalo Bills to the playoffs in eight out of nine seasons ended abruptly. After a disappointing performance this year, marked by critical turnovers and questionable decisions, he left the franchise with a solid 98-50 record.