Adam Schefter Assesses NFL Coaches’ Job Security Ahead of Black Monday
As the NFL regular season approaches its end, analysts are closely watching head coaches’ job security. ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently assessed various coaches, categorizing their positions based on safety as “Black Monday” looms.
NFL Coaches on the Chopping Block
Schefter identified several coaches whose jobs are at risk or deemed secure. The following coaches are categorized as follows:
Secure Positions
- Zac Taylor – Cincinnati Bengals
- Sean McDermott – Buffalo Bills
- Aaron Glenn – New York Jets
Leaning Safe
- Mike Tomlin – Pittsburgh Steelers
- Todd Bowles – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Raheem Morris – Atlanta Falcons
- Jonathan Gannon – Arizona Cardinals
- Shane Steichen – Indianapolis Colts
However, Jim Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens finds his position uncertain if his team loses against the Steelers in a critical game. A defeat could see the Ravens miss the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
Coaches Likely to Depart
- Kevin Stefanski – Cleveland Browns
- Pete Carroll – Las Vegas Raiders
Harbaugh’s tenure with the Ravens has been impressive since 2008. He has led his team to the playoffs 12 times, winning a Super Bowl in 2012. His overall record stands at 180 wins and 112 losses, including six AFC North titles.
Despite considerable regular-season success, Harbaugh’s playoff performance often raises questions. The Ravens have won multiple playoff games in only two seasons under his leadership. In two instances as a No. 1 seed, the team failed to reach the Super Bowl.
Kevin Stefanski dramatically changed the Browns’ trajectory after arriving in 2020. He led them to their first playoff win since 1994 and achieved a noteworthy 11-5 record. However, following a promising 2020 season, the Browns faced a significant downturn, entering Week 18 with a disappointing 4-12 record.
In contrast, Pete Carroll’s time with the Raiders has been troubled. At 74, Carroll’s future is uncertain given the team’s league-worst 2-14 record. His previous successes with the Seattle Seahawks brought hope, yet the Raiders have struggled offensively, ranking last in scoring. If released, he would mark the third coaching change for the Raiders in three seasons.
As the regular season concludes, the focus shifts to the coaching landscape. Decisions will be made quickly following the traditional “Black Monday,” setting the stage for significant changes in various NFL franchises.
