The Pittsburgh Steelers have brought in Mike McCarthy to be their next head coach. This appointment leaves four of the ten NFL head coaching vacancies still open. McCarthy steps in for Mike Tomlin, who resigned following the Steelers’ season conclusion. He will become only the fourth head coach for the franchise since 1969.
Preceding the Steelers’ decision, the coaching merry-go-round saw the Baltimore Ravens hire Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter as John Harbaugh’s replacement. Minter, now the fourth head coach in Ravens history, secured a five-year agreement with the team, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The Chargers are also preparing for a new offensive coordinator, with ex-Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel anticipated to move to Los Angeles. McDaniel chose not to participate in an interview for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching role on Friday but remains a potential candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders’ top position.
Two additional offensive coordinator roles have also been secured, with the Kansas City Chiefs reinstating Eric Bieniemy to his previous capacity from 2018 to 2022. Zac Robinson, previously the Atlanta Falcons’ offensive coordinator, is heading to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the equivalent position.
Earlier this week, the carousel featured:
Last weekend’s coaches moves included:
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The New York Giants and John Harbaugh finalized their agreement, anticipated to be for five years and valued at $100 million — making it one of the largest contracts in the league — as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken is reportedly expected to join Harbaugh’s staff.
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The Atlanta Falcons officially announced that Kevin Stefanski will serve as 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 twentieth in the franchise’s history.
Here’s a rundown of the hirings, firings and buzzy situations to watch.
HIRED
John Harbaugh, New York Giants
Head coaching record: 180-113 regular season, 13-11 playoffs (including a Super Bowl title), 18 seasons with Baltimore Ravens
Why he was hired: The Giants have experienced four permanent head coaches and two interim ones since Tom Coughlin departed after the 2015 season, and they are tired of the constant changes. Harbaugh, at 63, still possesses considerable energy and is expected to provide stability to a storied franchise that has endured some of its most challenging periods. (The Giants’ 59 victories since 2015 rank second-lowest in the NFL, only surpassing the Jets).
There’s developing talent on the roster, including quarterback Jaxson Dart (who could potentially work well with Harbaugh’s preferred offensive coordinator, Todd Monken), running back Cam Skattebo, wide receiver Malik Nabers, left tackle Andrew Thomas, and a defense featuring defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and edge rushers Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. Furthermore, General Manager Joe Schoen, as explained by Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson, was reportedly willing to defer personnel decisions to Harbaugh despite the official organizational structure. Team owner John Mara, a prominent figure in the league, disclosed a battle with an undisclosed form of cancer last September, likely strengthening the desire for a head coach who could immediately command respect.
The Giants have struggled for years, but securing the coach widely considered the best available instantly restores their credibility. The focus now shifts to how quickly they can achieve success together.
Kevin Stefanski, Atlanta Falcons
Head coaching record: 45-56 regular season, 1-2 playoffs, six seasons with Cleveland Browns
Why he was hired: Stefanski was among the most sought-after individuals on the market, with the NFL broadly 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 for Atlanta? Stefanski’s offensive expertise blends various schemes and coaching philosophies, which can assist new president of football Matt Ryan in assessing the talent the Falcons possess on that side of the ball (including Kirk Cousins, whom Stefanski previously coached in Minnesota). They are also retaining defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich after the Falcons’ defense showed significant improvement this season.
Stefanski serving as head coach and offensive architect, with Ulbrich staying to continue developing his defensive unit? This presents a solid strategy moving forward, even if the quarterback situation remains uncertain and the absence of a first-round pick this spring pose considerable hurdles. If owner Arthur Blank is finally prepared to exercise patience and allow this initiative to unfold, Stefanski could potentially end the Falcons’ eight-year playoff drought sooner than anticipated, especially within a less competitive NFC South.
Jeff Hafley, Miami Dolphins
Head coaching record: First job, was Packers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Why he was hired: The direct connection involves Jon-Eric Sullivan, who was appointed Dolphins general manager on Jan. 9 after dedicating over two decades to the Packers’ organization, most recently as vice president of player personnel.
Regarding the wider suitability? The Dolphins have proven to be a less appealing choice among coaching candidates this cycle than previously anticipated, Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson reported, largely due to the necessary salary cap restructuring as the team moves on from Tua Tagovailoa. With John Harbaugh no longer available, Hafley represents the most logical next step, possibly for both parties. Hafley has head coaching experience at Boston College from 2020-23, he enhanced Green Bay’s defenses over the last two seasons, and Miami would benefit from emphasizing that side of the ball — not to mention 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 regarded as one of the stronger candidates available, and the Dolphins acted swiftly to secure their most favorable outcome.
Robert Saleh, Tennessee Titans
Head coaching record: 20-36, fired five games into fourth season with New York Jets
Why he was hired: The prevailing sentiment across the league suggests Saleh’s struggles with the Jets were largely beyond his influence, and he has consistently overseen strong defenses wherever he has been. He will reportedly be calling defensive plays in Tennessee, so it will be interesting to observe who the Titans appoint to the offensive staff to continue nurturing Cam Ward, whose performance grew increasingly promising as his rookie season progressed.
Primarily, however, Saleh is expected to help stabilize a Titans franchise that is now on its second general manager and its second head coach (third including an interim) since Mike Vrabel’s dismissal after the 2023 season. It’s somewhat surprising that Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy did not secure the role, given his availability and existing connections to GM Mike Borgonzi from their shared time in Kansas City, but perhaps Nagy is now a consideration for the same position following Saleh’s appointment. Regardless, Saleh embodies the kind of steadfast, composed leader who could significantly contribute to halting Tennessee’s losing streak.
Jesse Minter, Baltimore Ravens
Head coaching record: First job, was Chargers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Why he was hired: The Ravens may have parted ways with John Harbaugh, but they are drawing from his coaching lineage to find his successor. Minter spent four years 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 clinching a national championship in Ann Arbor, he followed Jim to the Chargers, where he has spent the past two seasons coordinating 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. At just 42 years old, Minter was considered one of the leading candidates on the market, especially among those seeking their first head coaching role.
He steps into a situation where expectations are exceptionally high. Lamar Jackson is a two-time NFL MVP, the Ravens possess top-tier talent comparable to any team, and the only remaining objective for this iteration of the franchise is to reach and win the Super Bowl. Minter appears to fit the profile of someone who can achieve this. Baltimore is renowned for drafting and developing talent and allocating minimal spending on free agents, making a coach like Minter, who maximizes his players, seem perfectly suited. Moreover, Jackson guarantees a strong offensive baseline, allowing Minter to concentrate more of his efforts on fortifying a defense that did not meet expectations last season.
It’s an astute gamble — even if a Lombardi Trophy might be the sole measure of success for the franchise.
Mike McCarthy, Pittsburgh Steelers
Head coaching record: 174-112-2 regular season, 11-11 playoffs, five seasons with Dallas Cowboys, 13 seasons with Green Bay Packers.
Why he was hired: While it may have been some time ago, McCarthy possesses a Super Bowl ring for a specific reason — and it happens to be the only one Aaron Rodgers secured during his distinguished career. McCarthy re-established his credibility after his tenure with the Packers, guiding Dallas to the playoffs in three of his five seasons under Jerry Jones. He opted out of the previous hiring cycle, seemingly awaiting the ideal opportunity. McCarthy grew up in the Pittsburgh area, so he is intimately familiar with the franchise’s rich history.
FIRED
Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans (in season)
Brian Daboll, New York Giants (in 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
RESIGNED
Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers
NFL coaching news live blog
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Criss Partee
Denver Broncos quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Davis Webb is now available for interviews with other teams regarding potential coaching roles. Webb is anticipated to garner considerable interest and is already expected to meet with the Las Vegas Raiders, while the Buffalo Bills are also reportedly keen on interviewing Webb for their head coach position. Since Webb’s season has concluded, interested teams can officially commence their recruitment efforts.
Webb, just 31 years old, has ascended through the NFL coaching ranks quite rapidly. He initially held the quarterback’s coach role before also taking on passing game coordinator responsibilities.
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Tarohn Finley
The Miami Dolphins have hired former Tennessee Titans wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert as their new wide receivers coach, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Tolbert, 58, has a wide-ranging career as a receivers coach, having worked with the Bears, Broncos, Panthers, Bills, and Cardinals. Tolbert also spent time coaching at the collegiate level with Auburn, the University of Florida, Louisiana–Lafayette, Ohio, LSU, and Louisiana–Monroe. Tolbert also has a playing background as a receiver at LSU.
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Tarohn Finley
The Tennessee Titans are reportedly scheduled to interview Kliff Kingsbury and Adam Stenavich for their offensive coordinator vacancy on Monday, as per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Kingsbury served as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders for the past two seasons. He was also the former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, where he achieved a 28-37-1 record and guided the team to one playoff appearance over four seasons. The 46-year-old also previously held the head coaching role at Texas Tech and coached at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and USC.
Stenavich, 42, has been the offensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers for the last four seasons. Stenavich, a former offensive lineman, has also coached with the 49ers, at the University of Michigan, San Jose State, and Northern Arizona.
Titans’ new head coach Robert Saleh is seeking a replacement for former offensive coordinator Nick Holz.
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Ryan Young
John Harbaugh has now secured his defensive coordinator as well.
The Giants are set to appoint Dennard Wilson as their next defensive coordinator, according to the NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo. Wilson spent the previous two seasons as the Titans’ defensive coordinator. He has been a defensive assistant in the league for various teams since 2009, and he worked for a season with Harbaugh as the Ravens’ defensive backs coach in 2023.
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Criss Partee
The New York Giants are reportedly bringing on former Baltimore Ravens special teams coach Chris Horton as their assistant head coach/special teams coordinator. Horton had been part of the Ravens’ staff under John Harbaugh since 2014 and leading the special teams unit since then.
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Tarohn Finley
The Buffalo Bills are scheduled to interview Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski for the team’s head coaching role, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
Udinski, who just turned 30 in January, is one of the youngest head coaching candidates. Last season marked Udinski’s inaugural year as the Jaguars offensive coordinator under head coach Liam Coen.
He spent his preceding three seasons in various offensive coaching capacities under head coach Kevin O’Connell for the Minnesota Vikings. Udinski also served as a coaching assistant for the Carolina Panthers and a graduate assistant for Baylor.
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Tarohn Finley
Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Klayton Adams will not be departing the team for a division rival. The Cowboys denied the Eagles’ request to interview Adams for Philadelphia’s vacant offensive coordinator position, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
In Adams’ first year with the Cowboys, the team ranked second in total yards and finished among the top ten in both passing and rushing yards. Before Adams joined the Cowboys, he served as the offensive line coach for the Arizona Cardinals.
Adams has also held coaching roles with the Colts, University of Colorado, San Jose State, Sacramento State, Western Washington, and Boise State.
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Tarohn Finley
The Tennessee Titans are bringing in San Francisco 49ers assistant defensive line coach Greg Scruggs as the team’s defensive line coach, according to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco.
Before joining the 49ers, Scruggs coached under Titans head coach Robert Saleh with the New York Jets. Scruggs, 35, also spent time coaching the defensive line at the University of Cincinnati and the University of Wisconsin. He also played five seasons as a defensive end in the NFL.
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Tarohn Finley
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to hold a meeting with Denver Broncos’ passing game coordinator and QB coach, Davis Webb, for the team’s head coach vacancy, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Webb, 31, has quickly advanced in his coaching career since his playing days concluded in 2022. Webb has spent the last three seasons under head coach Sean Payton with the Broncos. He initially served as the quarterback coach, assisting in Bo Nix’s development, before adding passing game coordinator responsibilities last season after John Morton’s departure to become the Lions’ offensive coordinator.
The Raiders are looking for a new head coach after Pete Carroll was dismissed following his first season. Owners Mark Davis and Tom Brady, along with general manager John Spytek, are leading the coaching search. The Raiders hold the number one overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
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Tarohn Finley
The Tennessee Titans have submitted a request to interview Falcons defensive passing game coordinator Mike Rutenberg for their defensive coordinator opening, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Prior to his time with the Falcons, Rutenberg spent the preceding four seasons as the Jets’ linebackers coach under the new Titans head coach Robert Saleh.
Rutenberg also held coaching roles with San Francisco, Jacksonville, Washington, UCLA, New Mexico State, and the University of San Diego.
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Tarohn Finley
The New York Giants interviewed Miami Dolphins wide receiver coach Robert Prince for the team’s offensive coordinator opening on Friday, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Prince’s most recent role as an offensive coordinator was in 2012 for Boise State.
The 60-year-old coach has also had coaching stints with the Cowboys, Texans, Lions, Seahawks, Jaguars, Falcons, Colorado Buffaloes, Portland State, Sacramento State, Humboldt State, Montana State, and Fort Lewis.
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Tarohn Finley
The Washington Commanders are set to interview Vikings defensive passing game coordinator Daronte Jones for their defensive coordinator vacancy, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Jones, 47, has been with the Vikings for the last four seasons.
Before joining the Vikings, Jones served as the defensive coordinator at LSU. As a former defensive back at Morgan State, Jones brings extensive experience as a defensive back coach. He has coached teams such as the Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, Wisconsin, Hawaii, UCLA, Montreal, Bowie State, Lenoir–Rhyne, and Nicholls State.
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn is seeking to replace former defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.
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Chris Cwik
The Green Bay Packers reportedly found their replacement for Jeff Hafley. The team has reportedly brought in former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon as its defensive coordinator, per multiple reports.
Gannon, 42, joins the team after recording a 15-36 record in three seasons with the Cardinals. Prior to that, he served as a defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles.
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Chris Cwik
The Cleveland Browns completed an interview with Washington Commanders run-game coordinator Anthony Lynn for the team’s vacant head-coaching position, the Browns announced Sunday.
Lynn, 57, has moved between teams and worked for several since being dismissed by the Los Angeles Chargers after the 2020 NFL season.
Lynn compiled a 33-31 record in four seasons with the Chargers. He has worked for the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Commanders since leaving Los Angeles.
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Ian Casselberry
Following the hiring of Robert Saleh as their new head coach, the Tennessee Titans will interview Houston Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso for their defensive coordinator position, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports.
Vasso, 38, has been with the Texans since 2021, progressing from cornerbacks coach to DBs coach. He has also had coaching tenures with the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles during his career.
Houston boasted the fifth-ranked pass defense in the NFL this season, yielding 3,058 yards (183.5 per game), while also leading the league in total defense.
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Ian Casselberry
The Arizona Cardinals are bringing Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver back for an additional interview regarding their head coach opening, NFL Network reports. However, the team reportedly has three primary candidates under consideration.
Former Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, Jacksonville Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile, and Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur are seen as the leading contenders for the position, according to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.
Campanile has already had a second interview with the Cardinals, the Arizona Republic reports. Additionally, the team has conducted virtual interviews with LaFleur, Seattle Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak, Rams DC Chris Shula, and Broncos DC Vance Joseph.
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Ian Casselberry
The Buffalo Bills announced on Saturday that they have concluded an interview with Anthony Lynn for their head coach position.
Lynn, 57, has served as the run game coordinator and running backs coach with the Washington Commanders for the past two seasons. He held the head coach role for the then-San Diego Chargers for four seasons from 2017-20.
Additionally, Lynn acted as the Bills’ interim head coach for one game after Rex Ryan’s dismissal during the 2020 season. In his two seasons with Buffalo, he was an assistant head coach and running backs coach, and also took on the role of interim offensive coordinator.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
Miami Dolphins senior passing game coordinator Bobby Slowik will serve as the team’s offensive coordinator under new coach Jeff Hafley, ESPN reported.
Slowik had also engaged in discussions with the Philadelphia Eagles concerning their offensive coordinator vacancy.
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Andy Backstrom
San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak has withdrawn himself from head-coaching consideration and will remain with San Francisco, according to The Athletic.
Kubiak has been with the 49ers since the 2021 season, beginning his ascent through the team’s staff as a defensive quality control coach. He then served as the assistant quarterbacks coach from 2022-23, a period that included the drafting of Brock Purdy. Kubiak was San Francisco’s offensive passing game specialist in 2024.
Ahead of this season, he was promoted to OC, and the 49ers managed numerous injuries yet still averaged 25.7 points per game, ranking 10th in the NFL.
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Andy Backstrom
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly progressing towards an agreement to appoint former Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
McCarthy, 62, is a native of Pittsburgh. He is credited with leading his teams to 12 playoff appearances during his 18 seasons as a head coach. Over that period, he amassed a 174-112-2 record. He secured a Super Bowl victory while coaching the Packers.
Aaron Rodgers was his quarterback at that time.
While the Steelers are not hiring McCarthy with the intention of persuading Rodgers to return for another season in Pittsburgh, as per Pelissero, McCarthy’s presence could potentially be appealing to the four-time NFL MVP.
