The coaching changes persist across the league, with the Baltimore Ravens finalizing their selection of Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter as their new head coach, taking over from John Harbaugh. Minter, now the fourth head coach in the Ravens’ history, has committed to a five-year agreement with the organization, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
A fresh face will also lead the offense for the Chargers, with former Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel anticipated to relocate to Los Angeles. Nevertheless, McDaniel’s stay in LA might be brief, as he is slated for an interview regarding the Buffalo Bills’ vacant head coaching position this coming Friday.
Two additional offensive coordinator roles have been filled as well; the Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back Eric Bieniemy to the post he held from 2018 to 2022. Concurrently, Zac Robinson, previously the Atlanta Falcons’ OC, is joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the same capacity.
Earlier in the current week, the Tennessee Titans concluded negotiations to appoint Robert Saleh as their new head coach.
Saleh spent the prior season as the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator, having been dismissed by the New York Jets in 2024. His defensive units have consistently performed well wherever he has coached, and he now has the opportunity to help stabilize the Titans franchise and construct a winning team around their top overall draft pick, Cam Ward.
On Monday morning, the Bills stunned the league by announcing the dismissal of their head coach, Sean McDermott. General manager Brandon Beane retained his position and will be tasked with identifying McDermott’s successor.
In the interim, the Bills’ AFC East rival, the Miami Dolphins, finalized their own head coaching appointment with Jeff Hafley, who served as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator for the past two seasons.
These personnel shifts follow a bustling weekend during which the two most prominent figures in the NFL head coaching market officially found new teams to direct.
After approximately two days of quiet anticipation since their prospective collaboration became public, the New York Giants and John Harbaugh formalized their agreement, with the Giants officially announcing the acquisition. The deal is projected to span five years and carry a total worth of $100 million – ranking among the league’s most substantial contracts – according to NFL reporter Jordan Schultz.
Harbaugh now becomes the Giants’ fifth head coach (or seventh, if interim coaches are included) since Tom Coughlin’s resignation in January 2016. Former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken is reportedly expected to join Harbaugh’s coaching staff.
Also on Saturday, the Atlanta Falcons officially declared that Kevin Stefanski will assume the role of the team’s next head coach. The former Cleveland Browns coach takes over from Raheem Morris, becoming the Falcons’ third head coach in the last six seasons and the 20th in the franchise’s history.
Green Bay, conversely, is maintaining its existing leadership. Head coach Matt LaFleur is reportedly receiving a contract extension, as is general manager Brian Gutekunst. There had been some uncertainty regarding LaFleur’s return after the Packers dropped their final five games, including squandering an 18-point advantage against the Chicago Bears in the wild-card round, but the Packers’ leadership ultimately opted to retain them, given that injuries had significantly impacted what, at times, appeared to be a Super Bowl-caliber team this season.
Below is an overview of the recent hirings, terminations, and notable developments to observe.
APPOINTED
John Harbaugh, New York Giants
Head coaching statistics: 180-113 in regular season, 13-11 in playoffs (including a Super Bowl championship), 18 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens
Justification for appointment: The Giants have experienced four full-time head coaches and two interim leaders since Tom Coughlin stepped down following the 2015 season, and they are seeking an end to this frequent change. Harbaugh, at 63, still possesses considerable energy and is expected to bring stability to a storied franchise that has endured some of its most challenging periods. (The Giants’ 59 victories since 2015 represent the second-lowest total in the NFL, surpassing only the Jets).
There is promising talent on the roster to develop, including quarterback Jaxson Dart (who might gel well with Harbaugh’s preferred offensive coordinator, Todd Monken), running back Cam Skattebo, wide receiver Malik Nabers, left tackle Andrew Thomas, and a defensive unit featuring defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and edge rushers Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. Furthermore, general manager Joe Schoen, as detailed by Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson, was apparently willing to grant personnel decision-making authority to Harbaugh, despite the typical organizational structure. Team owner John Mara, a influential figure in the league, disclosed his battle with an undisclosed form of cancer last September, which likely intensified the desire for a head coach who could immediately command respect upon arrival.
The Giants have struggled for years, but securing the coach widely considered the premier candidate on the market instantly restores their credibility. The focus now shifts to how swiftly they can achieve success together.
Kevin Stefanski, Atlanta Falcons
Head coaching statistics: 45-56 in regular season, 1-2 in playoffs, six seasons with the Cleveland Browns
Justification for appointment: Stefanski was among the most sought-after names available, with the broader NFL evaluating more than just his win-loss record with the Browns as he aimed to elevate a struggling franchise into playoff contention. Does this scenario sound familiar, Atlanta? Stefanski’s offensive expertise combines elements from various schemes and coaching lineages, which can assist new president of football Matt Ryan in assessing the offensive talent available to the Falcons (including Kirk Cousins, whom Stefanski coached in Minnesota). They are also retaining defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich after the Falcons’ defense demonstrated significant improvement this season.
Stefanski as the head coach and offensive architect, with Ulbrich staying to continue developing his side of the ball? This presents a robust strategy moving forward, even with uncertainties at quarterback and the absence of a first-round draft pick this spring posing considerable hurdles. If team owner Arthur Blank is finally prepared to exercise patience and allow this undertaking to unfold, Stefanski could potentially end the Falcons’ eight-year playoff drought sooner than anticipated, particularly within a less formidable NFC South.
Jeff Hafley, Miami Dolphins
Head coaching statistics: First head coaching role, previously Packers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Justification for appointment: The direct link is Jon-Eric Sullivan, appointed as Dolphins general manager on January 9 after dedicating over two decades to the Packers’ organization, most recently as vice president of player personnel.
Regarding the broader suitability? The Dolphins have evidently proven to be a less appealing destination for coaching candidates this cycle than previously anticipated, as reported by Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson, primarily due to the necessary salary cap adjustments as the team transitions away from Tua Tagovailoa. With John Harbaugh no longer available, Hafley represents the most logical subsequent move, possibly benefiting both parties. Hafley possesses prior head coaching experience at Boston College from 2020-23, he enhanced Green Bay’s defensive performance over the past two seasons, and Miami would be wise to emphasize that side of the ball — alongside star running back De’Von Achane and an improving offensive line — while the Dolphins endeavor to resolve their quarterback situation in what now appears to be a multi-season endeavor.
Hafley is widely regarded as one of the stronger candidates in the market, and the Dolphins acted decisively to secure what they considered their optimal outcome.
Robert Saleh, Tennessee Titans
Head coaching statistics: 20-36, dismissed five games into his fourth season with the New York Jets
Justification for appointment: The general consensus around the league is that Saleh’s shortcomings with the Jets were largely beyond his influence, and he has consistently overseen effective defenses throughout his career. He will reportedly handle defensive play-calling responsibilities in Tennessee, so it will be interesting to observe who the Titans engage for their offensive staff to continue nurturing Cam Ward, who exhibited increasing promise as his rookie season progressed.
Above all, however, Saleh is expected to help stabilize a Titans franchise that is now on its second general manager and its second head coach (or third, including an interim) since the dismissal of Mike Vrabel after the 2023 season. It is somewhat surprising that Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy did not secure the position, given his availability and connections to GM Mike Borgonzi from their shared time in Kansas City, but perhaps Nagy is being considered for the same role now that Saleh has been chosen. Regardless, Saleh embodies the kind of steady, composed leader who could significantly contribute to halting the team’s losing streak in Tennessee.
Jesse Minter, Baltimore Ravens
Head coaching statistics: First head coaching role, previously Chargers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Justification for appointment: The Ravens may have parted ways with John Harbaugh, but they are drawing from his coaching lineage for his replacement. Minter served four seasons as a defensive assistant in Baltimore under Harbaugh from 2017-2020 before joining Harbaugh’s brother, Jim, as the University of Michigan’s defensive coordinator. After achieving a national championship in Ann Arbor, he followed Jim to the Chargers, where he has spent the last two seasons overseeing a defense that has consistently ranked in the top-10 in DVOA during both years, earning widespread recognition for the unpredictability of his units and his strategic play-calling skill. At just 42 years old, Minter was considered a leading candidate in the market, particularly among those embarking on their first head coaching role.
He steps into a scenario where expectations are exceptionally high. Lamar Jackson is a two-time NFL MVP, the Ravens possess elite talent comparable to any team, and the sole remaining objective for this iteration of the franchise is to reach and win the Super Bowl. Minter appears to fit the profile of a leader capable of achieving this. Baltimore is renowned for its talent acquisition through drafting and development, and for conservative spending on free agents, making a coach like Minter, who maximizes his players’ potential, seem perfectly suited. Moreover, Jackson guarantees a strong offensive foundation, allowing Minter to concentrate more of his efforts on bolstering a defense that did not meet expectations last season.
It is an astute decision — even if a Lombardi Trophy might be the only measure by which the franchise gauges its ultimate success.
DISMISSED
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
Record with team: 106-58 (including playoffs), nine seasons
Justification for dismissal: Put simply, McDermott failed to reach a Super Bowl with Josh Allen, who earned NFL MVP honors in 2024 and is widely regarded as the league’s top quarterback. Even with Allen delivering an uncharacteristically inconsistent performance in Saturday’s divisional-round defeat to the Denver Broncos, numerous opportunities to secure a victory arose, yet McDermott’s Bills were unable to capitalize. No team has arguably suffered more from the recent Chiefs dynasty than the Bills, who lost to Kansas City four times in the playoffs, and in every conceivable manner — from the notorious 13-second game in the 2021 season, to a home divisional-round loss in the 2023 season, to both a lopsided defeat (2020 season) and a tightly contested game (2024 season) at Arrowhead. However, there have been other heartbreaking losses as well, including Saturday’s, prompting the Bills to conclude their tenure with a coach who consistently helped the defense outperform its talent but managed only an 8-8 playoff record, and conceded the AFC East to the resurgent New England Patriots this season.
RESIGNED
Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers
Record with team: 201-126-2 (including playoffs), 19 seasons
Justification for resignation: After nearly two decades of consistent performance in Pittsburgh, Tomlin faced scrutiny in recent seasons for his inability to achieve deep postseason advancements. It is plausible that these mounting pressures began to affect Tomlin after such an extended period in a demanding position. It is also possible he simply felt ready for a break following almost 20 years in a high-stress role. As Tomlin is departing — rather than being dismissed — the Steelers maintain his contractual rights should he decide to re-enter coaching. Tomlin might also choose to take a sabbatical of a year or two before resuming his career in the sport. If he opts to return to coaching, he would presumably be a highly sought-after candidate for numerous teams.
TERMINATED
Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans (mid-season)
Brian Daboll, New York Giants (mid-season)
Raheem Morris, Atlanta Falcons
Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland Browns
Pete Carroll, Las Vegas Raiders
Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals
John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens
Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
NFL coaching updates live blog
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Sean Leahy
Mike McDaniel might take on a new role with the Chargers, but his tenure in Los Angeles could be short-lived as he is set to interview for the Bills’ head coaching vacancy on Friday.
The Bills are scheduled to then confer with Commanders run game coordinator Anthony Lynn and former Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver on Saturday. On Sunday, Jaguars OC Grant Udinski will have his turn.
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Andy Backstrom
With Jesse Minter assuming the Baltimore Ravens’ head-coaching role, the Los Angeles Chargers are now searching for a new defensive coordinator.
They have formally requested an interview with Los Angeles Rams assistant head coach/defensive pass game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Sean McVay’s coaching lineage continues to expand annually, and Rams assistants have once again garnered significant interest this cycle.
As for Pleasant, he contributed to the Rams limiting opponents to the 10th-fewest points per game (20.4) during the regular season. This marks his second tenure on McVay’s staff, commencing in 2023. Previously, he served as the Rams’ cornerbacks coach from 2017-20. In the interim, he worked as a defensive assistant for the Detroit Lions (2021-22) and as an offensive consultant for the Green Bay Packers (2022).
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Criss Partee
The newly appointed Miami Dolphins head coach has confirmed his intention to call defensive plays during his inaugural year with the team. He also indicated that the team would be bringing in a new offensive coordinator. Hafley previously served as defensive coordinator for the past two seasons in Green Bay.
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Criss Partee
The Atlanta Falcons conducted an interview with Houston Texans assistant general manager James Liipfert for their vacant GM position on Thursday.
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Criss Partee
The Buffalo Bills have reportedly arranged their interview with Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski for the head coach position on Sunday. Prior to this interview, Udinski is anticipated to have his second interview for the head coach role with the Cleveland Browns.
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Criss Partee
Los Angeles Chargers DC Jesse Minter will not be proceeding with his scheduled interview for the Cleveland Browns head coaching vacancy on Thursday. The prevailing belief, according to Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot, is that he likely perceives other head coach opportunities as more certain.
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Criss Partee
The Buffalo Bills have concluded their interview with Brian Daboll for the head coach position. Daboll served as Buffalo’s offensive coordinator for the initial four years of Josh Allen’s professional career. He played a significant role in Allen’s early development within the NFL.
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The Philadelphia Eagles have requested a meeting with Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. Boyle just completed his first season as the Bears’ OC, during which the offense ranked third in the NFL in rushing yards (144.5), sixth in total yards (369.2), ninth in points scored (25.9), and tenth in passing yards per game (225.1).
Philadelphia’s performance in each of these offensive categories was lower in 2025.
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Chris Cwik
The Washington Commanders are slated to interview Chicago Bears defensive pass-game coordinator Al Harris for the team’s unoccupied defensive coordinator position, according to NFL Network.
While Harris has not yet held a defensive coordinator role, he garnered high praise for his contributions with the Bears, who led the NFL in turnovers generated this season.
Harris previously collaborated with Commanders head coach Dan Quinn in Dallas, establishing a connection within the Washington organization.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady is scheduled to meet with the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday concerning their head-coaching vacancy, as reported by ESPN.
Brady had interviewed with the Bills a day prior for their own head-coaching job. He served as the offensive coordinator under Sean McDermott, who was dismissed earlier in the week.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
Gannon is also a candidate for the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator position.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are close to finalizing an agreement to appoint Zac Robinson as their new offensive coordinator, according to multiple news outlets.
Robinson had been the Atlanta Falcons’ offensive coordinator.
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Ryan Young
Senior Vice President of Football Operations and Strategy Kevin Abrams, who has been with the team since 1999, is departing the Giants organization as part of a restructuring initiative. He was with the team through six head coaches and two Super Bowl victories.
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Andy Backstrom
The Minnesota Vikings have extended defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ contract, the team announced on Wednesday.
Flores remains a contender for head-coaching vacancies with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, who reported that if Flores does not secure those positions, he will stay in Minnesota.
Following his three-year tenure as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach and a one-year period as the Steelers’ senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach, he has served as the Vikings’ defensive coordinator for three seasons.
During that time, he has led units that have ranked 13th, fifth, and seventh in scoring defense.
For additional information on Flores’ contract extension with the Vikings, click here.
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Criss Partee
The Buffalo Bills are slated to interview Washington Commanders run game coordinator/running backs coach Anthony Lynn for the team’s head coach position, according to Senior NFL Insider Josina Anderson.
Lynn previously served as head coach of the Chargers for four years and guided the team to winning records in his initial two seasons with the franchise.
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Ryan Young
Eric Bieniemy is headed back to Kansas City. Following days of speculation, the Chiefs have reached an agreement with Bieniemy to reinstate him as their offensive coordinator, according to the NFL Network.
Bieniemy spent five seasons with Kansas City as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, helping to lead the team to multiple Super Bowl championships. Now, with Matt Nagy no longer in the role, the path is clear for Bieniemy’s return.
For additional information on Bieniemy’s return to Kansas City, click here.
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Criss Partee
The Buffalo Bills conducted an interview with offensive coordinator Joe Brady for the head coach position on Wednesday. Brady has spent four seasons in Buffalo as quarterbacks coach and has been offensive coordinator for the last two years. He has no prior experience as an NFL head coach.
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Andy Backstrom
The Atlanta Falcons are anticipated to hire former Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to fill the same role within their organization, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
This suggests that Rees is poised to once again serve as the offensive coordinator for Kevin Stefanski, whom the Falcons appointed as their new head coach this past weekend.
With the Browns, Rees was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2025. He assumed play-calling responsibilities from Stefanski and helped the team achieve five victories despite a constant rotation at quarterback and numerous injuries.
Prior to that, the former Notre Dame quarterback served as the Browns’ pass game specialist and tight ends coach in 2024.
He also held the offensive coordinator position at his alma mater from 2020-22 and at Alabama during the 2023 season.
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Kate Magdziuk
The Falcons have requested an interview with Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Bradway for their open general manager position, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday.
He has been with the Chiefs since 2018, having been promoted to assistant general manager in 2025 after serving as the team’s senior director of player personnel for the preceding four seasons.
Bradway joins Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham, 49ers director of scouting/football operations Josh Williams, and Steelers assistant GM Andy Wiedl in the pool of candidates for the vacant position, which will report to new president of football Matt Ryan.
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Ryan Young
After officially departing the Chiefs — a move that paved the way for Eric Bieniemy’s return to Kansas City — Matt Nagy has now interviewed with the Philadelphia Eagles for their vacant offensive coordinator role. Nagy was considered a leading contender for the Titans head coaching position, but the team unexpectedly moved to bring in Robert Saleh instead.
