7 NFL Head Coaches Likely to Be Fired on Black Monday
As the NFL approaches the off-season, Black Monday looms large for several head coaches find themselves on the hot seat. This pivotal day, occurring the day after the regular season ends, typically brings announcements of coaching changes aimed at revitalizing teams seeking success. In the 2025 season, we witnessed two mid-season firings, with Brian Callahan of the Titans and Brian Daboll of the Giants being let go. While Tennessee showed improvement post-firing, New York struggled to find its footing.
Coaches Facing Uncertain Futures
The following head coaches are under intense scrutiny and could be expected to face the axe on Black Monday:
Mike McDaniel – Miami Dolphins
- Record: Uncertain but improved with five wins in last seven games.
- Strengths: Known for offensive development.
- Weaknesses: Criticized for lack of leadership skills.
McDaniel’s future is uncertain, despite a recent uptick in wins. While he possesses offensive acumen, questions linger regarding his leadership abilities.
Pete Carroll – Las Vegas Raiders
- Previous record: 4-13 season with high expectations.
- Issues: No visible adjustments made during the season.
- Prospects: A potential dismissal may pave the way for a fresh start.
Carroll’s first year with the Raiders has been disappointing, raising doubts about whether he is the right fit to lead the team with a top draft pick on the horizon.
Kevin Stefanski – Cleveland Browns
- Coaching tenure: Six years with only two winning seasons.
- Win percentage: .440, suggesting stagnation.
- Context: Challenging conditions under his leadership.
Stefanski may be facing an uphill battle to retain his job despite being a two-time Coach of the Year. The need for a renewal could prompt his departure.
Zac Taylor – Cincinnati Bengals
- Win percentage: .457, given the talent on the roster.
- Contract: Runs through 2027, affecting decision-making.
- Concerns: Performance may not justify continued employment.
Despite some talent on the Bengals, Taylor’s coaching has come under fire. His future hinges on the willingness of management to invest in a change.
Jonathan Gannon – Arizona Cardinals
- Team performance: 29th in points allowed.
- Defensive issues: Lack of improvement evident.
- Outlook: A coaching change may be on the horizon.
Gannon’s inability to enhance the team’s defense has left many wondering about his future in Arizona. Improvement is necessary for job security.
John Harbaugh – Baltimore Ravens
- Coaching tenure: 13 years, one Super Bowl win.
- Current season: Mixed results under Lamar Jackson.
- Need for change: Pressure mounts for a different coaching strategy.
Despite his successful history, Harbaugh finds the Ravens underachieving in recent seasons. A potential overhaul may be necessary for future success.
Aaron Glenn – New York Jets
- Challenges: Oversaw major player departures.
- Current season: One of the league’s poorest performances.
- Comparison: Drawing parallels to former coach Jerrod Mayo’s quick exit.
Glenn has faced an uphill battle this season, and the Jets’ poor performance raises questions about whether he can turn things around.
As Black Monday approaches, franchises will assess their coaching situations. The decisions made will significantly impact their future directions and aspirations within the NFL.