The NFL’s coaching shifts persist, with the Baltimore Ravens recently finalizing their coaching selection, appointing Jesse Minter, previously the Chargers’ defensive coordinator, to succeed John Harbaugh. Minter, now the Ravens’ fourth head coach ever, has reportedly signed a five-year deal with the club, as per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Furthermore, the Chargers are set to welcome a new offensive coordinator, with ex-Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel anticipated to join the Los Angeles team.
Two more offensive coordinator roles have also been settled, with the Kansas City Chiefs reinstating Eric Bieniemy to the position he occupied between 2018 and 2022. Zac Robinson, formerly the Atlanta Falcons’ OC, is moving to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to fill the identical role.
Earlier this week, the Tennessee Titans concluded negotiations to appoint Robert Saleh as their new head coach.
Saleh served as the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator last season, following his dismissal by the New York Jets in 2024. His defensive units have consistently performed well across his career, and he now has an opportunity to bring stability to the Titans organization and cultivate a winning team centered around their top draft pick, Cam Ward.
On Monday morning, the Buffalo Bills surprised the league by dismissing their head coach, Sean McDermott. Reports indicate that General Manager Brandon Beane will keep his position and will be tasked with finding McDermott’s successor.
Concurrently, the Miami Dolphins, a rival to the Bills in the AFC East, completed their head coaching search by bringing in Jeff Hafley, who previously served as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator for the last two seasons.
These appointments come after a bustling weekend during which the two most prominent figures in the NFL’s head coaching market officially secured new leadership roles.
Following approximately two days of noticeable quiet since reports surfaced of their potential partnership, the New York Giants and John Harbaugh finalized their agreement on Saturday, with the Giants officially announcing the appointment. The contract is anticipated to span five years and be worth a total of $100 million – ranking among the league’s most substantial deals – as reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
Harbaugh marks the Giants’ fifth head coach (or seventh, including interim coaches) since Tom Coughlin stepped down in January 2016. Todd Monken, former offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, is reportedly slated to join Harbaugh’s coaching team.
Also on Saturday, the Atlanta Falcons formally declared Kevin Stefanski as the team’s next head coach. The ex-Cleveland Browns coach assumes the role from Raheem Morris, becoming the Falcons’ third head coach over the last six seasons and the twentieth in the franchise’s history.
Green Bay, conversely, is maintaining its current leadership. Head coach Matt LaFleur is reportedly receiving a contract extension, as is general manager Brian Gutekunst. Concerns had arisen 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 playoffs. However, the Packers’ leadership ultimately decided to retain them, citing how injuries had impacted what occasionally appeared to be a Super Bowl-caliber team this season.
Below is an overview of the recent appointments, terminations, and notable developments to monitor.
APPOINTED
John Harbaugh, New York Giants
Prior Coaching Statistics: 180-113 in regular season play, 13-11 in postseason (featuring a Super Bowl championship), spanning 18 years with the Baltimore Ravens
Reason for Appointment: Since Tom Coughlin’s departure after the 2015 season, the Giants have employed four permanent head coaches and two interim ones, signaling their weariness with frequent changes. Harbaugh, at 63, still possesses considerable energy and is expected to provide steadfastness to a historically respected franchise that has recently endured significant challenges. (Since 2015, the Giants’ 59 victories represent the second-lowest total in the NFL, surpassing only the Jets).
The team’s roster holds promising talent for development, including quarterback Jaxson Dart (who could potentially align well with Harbaugh’s favored 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 alongside edge rushers Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. Additionally, General Manager Joe Schoen, as detailed by Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson, appeared prepared to transfer personnel authority to Harbaugh, despite the established organizational structure. Furthermore, John Mara, the team owner and a prominent league figure, disclosed his battle with an unspecified cancer last September, which probably intensified the urgency to secure a head coach who could instantly command authority.
After years of underperformance, securing the coach widely considered the most desirable available instantly restores the Giants’ credibility. The focus now shifts to how rapidly they can achieve success collaboratively.
Kevin Stefanski, Atlanta Falcons
Prior Coaching Statistics: 45-56 in regular season play, 1-2 in postseason, spanning six years with the Cleveland Browns
Reason for Appointment: Stefanski was among the most sought-after figures in the market, with the wider NFL community evaluating more than just his win-loss record with the Browns as he aimed to elevate a struggling franchise into playoff contention. Does this sound familiar to Atlanta? Stefanski’s offensive acumen combines elements from 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 coached in Minnesota). They are also retaining defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich after the Falcons’ defense showed significant improvement this season.
Stefanski as the head coach and offensive strategist, with Ulbrich staying on to continue building his defensive unit? This forms a robust strategy moving forward, even with uncertainties at quarterback and no first-round draft pick this spring presenting considerable hurdles. If team owner Arthur Blank is finally prepared to exercise patience and allow this project to unfold, Stefanski could potentially end the Falcons’ eight-year playoff drought sooner than anticipated, particularly within a less competitive NFC South.
Jeff Hafley, Miami Dolphins
Prior Coaching Statistics: First head coaching position, previously served as Packers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Reason for Appointment: The direct connection is Jon-Eric Sullivan, who was hired as Dolphins general manager on January 9th after more than two decades within the Packers’ organization, most recently as vice president of player personnel.
Regarding the broader suitability? It appears the Dolphins have proven to be a less appealing destination among coaching candidates this cycle than initially expected, as reported by Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson. This is largely 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 next step, potentially beneficial for both parties. Hafley brings head coaching experience from Boston College (2020-23), he enhanced Green Bay’s defenses over the past two seasons, and Miami would do well to emphasize 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 widely considered one of the market’s stronger candidates, and the Dolphins acted decisively to secure their optimal outcome.
Robert Saleh, Tennessee Titans
Prior Coaching Statistics: 20-36, dismissed five games into his fourth season with the New York Jets
Reason for Appointment: The general consensus around the league suggests that Saleh’s shortcomings with the Jets were largely beyond his influence, and he has consistently overseen strong defenses throughout his career. He is reportedly expected to call defensive plays in Tennessee, so it will be interesting to observe who the Titans recruit for their offensive staff to continue developing Cam Ward, whose performance grew increasingly promising as his rookie season progressed.
Above all, however, Saleh is anticipated to help stabilize a Titans franchise that is on its second general manager and now its second head coach (third including interim) since Mike Vrabel’s dismissal after the 2023 season. It is somewhat surprising that Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy did not secure the position, considering his availability and his connections to GM Mike Borgonzi from their shared time in Kansas City. However, Nagy might still be a candidate for the offensive coordinator role now that Saleh has been chosen. Regardless, Saleh embodies the kind of firm, composed leader who could significantly contribute to halting the team’s ongoing struggles in Tennessee.
Jesse Minter, Baltimore Ravens
Prior Coaching Statistics: First head coaching position, previously served as Chargers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Reason for Appointment: The Ravens may have parted ways with John Harbaugh, but they are drawing from his coaching tree for his successor. Minter spent 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 coordinating a defense that has consistently ranked in the top-10 in DVOA during both years, earning widespread respect for the unpredictability of his units and his strategic play-calling. At just 42 years old, Minter was considered one of the top candidates available, especially among first-time head coaches.
He steps into a situation where expectations are exceedingly high. Lamar Jackson is a two-time NFL MVP, and the Ravens possess top-tier talent comparable to any team’s. 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 someone capable of achieving this. Baltimore is renowned for drafting and nurturing talent while spending minimally on free agents, making a coach like Minter, who maximizes his players’ potential, seem ideally suited. Moreover, Jackson guarantees a high offensive floor, allowing Minter to concentrate more of his efforts on fortifying a defense that underperformed expectations this past season.
It’s an astute gamble — even if a Lombardi Trophy might be the literal sole measure of the franchise’s success.
DISMISSED
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
Record with team: 106-58 (including playoffs), nine seasons
Reason for Dismissal: Simply put, McDermott failed to reach a Super Bowl with Josh Allen, who earned NFL MVP honors in 2024 and is arguably the league’s top quarterback. Even with Allen delivering an uncharacteristically inconsistent performance in Saturday’s divisional-round loss to the Denver Broncos, numerous opportunities to secure a victory arose, yet McDermott’s Bills were unable to capitalize. Arguably no team has suffered more from the recent Chiefs dynasty than the Bills, who lost to Kansas City four times in the playoffs, in every conceivable manner — from the infamous 13-second game in the 2021 season, to a home defeat in the 2023 season’s divisional round, to both a rout (2020 season) and a close contest (2024 season) at Arrowhead. However, there have been other heartbreaking losses as well, including Saturday’s, prompting the Bills to decide they had seen enough from a coach who consistently enabled the defense to outperform its talent but managed only an 8-8 playoff record, and ceded the AFC East to the surging New England Patriots this season.
RESIGNED
Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers
Record with team: 201-126-2 (including playoffs), 19 seasons
Reason for Resignation: After almost two decades of consistent success in Pittsburgh, Tomlin faced increasing scrutiny in recent seasons for his inability to achieve deep postseason runs. It is plausible that these mounting pressures began to wear on Tomlin after such a prolonged period in a high-stress role. Alternatively, he may simply have been prepared to take a sabbatical after nearly 20 years in the coaching profession. Since Tomlin is stepping down — and was not fired — the Steelers retain his contractual rights should he decide to return to coaching. Tomlin might also choose to take a gap year or two before re-entering the game. If he opts to resume coaching, he would presumably be a highly sought-after candidate for teams.
DISMISSED
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 news live blog
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Criss Partee
The newly appointed Miami Dolphins head coach has affirmed his intention to oversee defensive play-calling during his inaugural year with the franchise. He additionally stated that the organization plans to recruit a different offensive coordinator. Hafley previously held the defensive coordinator role for the last two seasons in Green Bay.
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Criss Partee
The Atlanta Falcons conducted an interview with James Liipfert, the Houston Texans’ assistant general manager, for their vacant GM role on Thursday.
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Criss Partee
Reports indicate that the Buffalo Bills have arranged to interview Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski on Sunday for the head coaching vacancy. Prior to this, Udinski is anticipated to have his second interview for the head coaching role with the Cleveland Browns.
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Criss Partee
Jesse Minter, the Los Angeles Chargers’ Defensive Coordinator, will reportedly bypass his scheduled interview for the Cleveland Browns’ head coaching opening on Thursday. It is speculated that he may perceive more assured head coaching prospects elsewhere, according to Browns beat reporter Mary Kay Cabot.
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Criss Partee
The Buffalo Bills have concluded their interview with Brian Daboll for the head coaching role. Daboll served as Buffalo’s offensive coordinator during the initial four seasons of Josh Allen’s professional journey, significantly contributing to Allen’s development in the nascent stages of his NFL career.
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The Philadelphia Eagles have formally requested an interview with Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. Boyle recently completed his inaugural season as the Bears’ OC, during which the offense achieved rankings of third in NFL rushing yards (144.5), sixth in total yards (369.2), ninth in points (25.9), and tenth in passing yards per game (225.1).
In 2025, Philadelphia’s offensive metrics were lower in each of these statistical areas.
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Chris Cwik
According to NFL Network, the Washington Commanders are slated to interview Chicago Bears defensive pass-game coordinator Al Harris for their open defensive coordinator role.
Although Harris lacks prior experience as a defensive coordinator, his contributions to the Bears, who topped the NFL in turnovers this season, earned him significant praise.
Given his past collaboration with Commanders head coach Dan Quinn in Dallas, Harris possesses an established rapport within the Washington organization.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
ESPN reports that Joe Brady, the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator, is scheduled to meet with the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday to discuss their head-coaching vacancy.
Brady had interviewed for the Bills’ head-coaching role a day prior. He previously held the offensive coordinator position under Sean McDermott, who was dismissed earlier this week.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
Gannon has additionally been considered for the defensive coordinator position with the Dallas Cowboys.
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Yahoo Sports Staff
Numerous sources indicate that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are nearing a deal to bring in Zac Robinson as their new offensive coordinator.
Robinson previously served as the Atlanta Falcons’ offensive coordinator.
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Ryan Young
Kevin Abrams, the Senior Vice President of Football Operations and Strategy, who has been affiliated with the Giants franchise since 1999, is departing the organization as part of a restructuring initiative. His tenure spanned six head coaches and included two Super Bowl victories.
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Andy Backstrom
On Wednesday, the Minnesota Vikings announced they have agreed to a contract extension with defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Flores continues to be considered for head-coaching openings with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, as per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, who also noted that Flores would remain with Minnesota if he does not secure one of those positions.
After a three-year term as head coach of the Miami Dolphins and a single season as the Steelers’ senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach, he has now completed three seasons as the Vikings’ Defensive Coordinator.
Throughout this period, the defensive units he led achieved rankings of 13th, fifth, and seventh in terms of scoring defense.
For further details regarding Flores’ extended agreement with the Vikings, access this link.
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Criss Partee
According to Senior NFL Insider Josina Anderson, the Buffalo Bills are scheduled to interview Anthony Lynn, the Washington Commanders’ run game coordinator/running backs coach, for their head coach vacancy.
Lynn previously served as the Chargers’ head coach for four seasons, guiding the team to successful records in his initial two years with the organization.
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Ryan Young
Eric Bieniemy is set to rejoin Kansas City. Following several days of rumors, the Chiefs have reached an agreement with Bieniemy to reappoint him as their next offensive coordinator, as reported by NFL Network.
Bieniemy’s previous tenure with Kansas City spanned five seasons as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, during which he contributed to the team securing multiple Super Bowl championships. With Matt Nagy’s departure, Bieniemy’s return is now unobstructed.
To learn more about Bieniemy’s rejoining of Kansas City, access this link.
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Criss Partee
On Wednesday, the Buffalo Bills concluded an interview with offensive coordinator Joe Brady for the head coaching role. Brady’s tenure in Buffalo includes four seasons as quarterbacks coach and the past two years as offensive coordinator. He has no prior experience as an NFL head coach.
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Andy Backstrom
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Atlanta Falcons are anticipated to appoint Tommy Rees, previously the Cleveland Browns’ offensive coordinator, to the identical position within their team.
This development indicates that Rees is poised to reunite as OC under Kevin Stefanski, who the Falcons named their new head coach last weekend.
During his time with the Browns, Rees was elevated to OC in 2025. He assumed play-calling responsibilities from Stefanski and contributed to the team achieving five victories, despite frequent quarterback changes and numerous injuries.
Prior to this, the former Notre Dame quarterback worked as the Browns’ pass game specialist and tight ends coach in 2024.
His resume also includes serving as offensive coordinator for his former university from 2020-22 and for Alabama in the 2023 season.
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Kate Magdziuk
On Wednesday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Falcons have formally sought an interview with Mike Bradway, the Chiefs’ assistant general manager, for their vacant general manager role.
Bradway’s tenure with the Chiefs began in 2018, and he was promoted to assistant GM in 2025, having previously served four seasons as the team’s senior director of player personnel.
Bradway is among the candidates being considered for the open position, which will report to the recently appointed president of football, Matt Ryan, joining Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham, 49ers director of scouting/football operations Josh Williams, and Steelers assistant GM Andy Wiedl.
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Ryan Young
Following his official departure from the Chiefs — a move that paved the way for Eric Bieniemy’s return to Kansas City — Matt Nagy has since interviewed with the Philadelphia Eagles for their vacant offensive coordinator position. Nagy had been widely regarded as a strong contender for the Titans’ head coaching role, but the team unexpectedly opted to hire Robert Saleh instead.
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Criss Partee
The Atlanta Falcons have formally asked to interview Ian Cunningham, the Chicago Bears’ assistant general manager, for their available GM role. Atlanta had previously interviewed Cunningham for the president position, which was ultimately filled by former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. Cunningham is regarded as a compelling prospect for the general manager post.
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Chris Cwik
The Buffalo Bills were reportedly impressed by the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offensive performance this season. The team has purportedly sought to interview Grant Udinski, the Jaguars’ offensive coordinator, for the Bills’ open head-coaching role.
Udinski guided the Jaguars to a top-10 scoring finish in 2025, marking his debut season as an offensive coordinator at 30 years old.
The team also submitted a request to speak with Anthony Weaver, the Miami Dolphins’ Defensive Coordinator, who is also a candidate for positions with the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers.
