NFL Coaching Carousel: Expert Predictions for Every Vacant Head Coaching Job
As the NFL's head coaching cycle accelerates, multiple teams are conducting extensive interviews with candidates ranging from established veterans to rising coordinators. While John Harbaugh appears set to join the New York Giants, the landscape for other franchises remains fluid. Here’s a look at how Yahoo Sports experts match each team with a potential head coach.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Frank Schwab: Prioritize Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman; if unavailable, target Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
Jori Epstein: Hire former Jets coach Robert Saleh, citing his ability to lead a top defense despite organizational challenges.
Charles Robinson: Pursue Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, citing his AFC North familiarity and defensive pedigree under Jim Harbaugh.
Baltimore Ravens
Frank Schwab: Prioritize Kevin Stefanski to maximize Lamar Jackson’s prime with an experienced, win-now coach.
Jori Epstein: Target Jesse Minter, noting his Ravens history and success transforming the Chargers' defense.
Charles Robinson: Hire Kevin Stefanski for his offensive acumen, even-keeled leadership, and AFC North experience.
New York Giants
Consensus: Finalize a deal with John Harbaugh. Experts agree the Giants must secure the most established candidate available and meet his demands to ensure a transformative hire.
Update: The Giants are reportedly closing in on hiring Harbaugh.
Las Vegas Raiders
Frank Schwab: Aim for Kevin Stefanski or Klint Kubiak; consider a bold swing for young Broncos assistant Davis Webb.
Jori Epstein: Propose a co-head coach model pairing Davis Webb with Broncos DC Vance Joseph.
Charles Robinson: Target Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, pairing him with a defensive CEO like Brian Flores.
Cleveland Browns
Frank Schwab: Promote defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, a known quantity to ownership.
Jori Epstein: Hire Klint Kubiak for his offensive system and pair him with Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator.
Charles Robinson: Elevate Jim Schwartz to head coach to maintain defensive stability, then hire a young OC like Nate Scheelhaase.
Miami Dolphins
Frank Schwab: Target Chris Shula for his family legacy; consider other defensive candidates like Jeff Hafley or Matt Burke.
Jori Epstein: Explore a trade for Packers coach Matt LaFleur.
Charles Robinson: Hire Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, especially if John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski land elsewhere.
Tennessee Titans
Frank Schwab: Prioritize Klint Kubiak to develop quarterback Cam Ward.
Jori Epstein: Hire Chiefs OC Matt Nagy for his offensive mind and quarterback development history.
Charles Robinson: Target Matt Nagy due to his existing relationship with GM Mike Borgonzi and prior head coaching experience.
Atlanta Falcons
Frank Schwab: Pursue Kevin Stefanski; if unavailable, target Chargers DC Jesse Minter.
Jori Epstein: Hire Kevin Stefanski for his ability to maximize roster talent and history with Kirk Cousins.
Charles Robinson: Consider Vikings DC Brian Flores, citing his connection to football head Matt Ryan and proven defensive leadership.
Arizona Cardinals
Frank Schwab: Target Robert Saleh; consider former DC Vance Joseph as a fallback.
Jori Epstein: Hire Packers DC Jeff Hafley for his head coaching experience and defensive scheme.
Charles Robinson: Take a chance on Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, who has learned under both Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay.
The coming weeks will reveal which predictions materialize as teams finalize their decisions in a highly competitive market.
