NFL Coaching Carousel Updates Before Divisional Round
As the NFL enters the divisional round, coaching changes are underway across several teams. Various organizations are exploring options, conducting interviews, and making strategic decisions. Key figures in the coaching carousel include John Harbaugh, Matt LaFleur, and several others vying for top positions.
NFL Coaching Carousel: Recent Updates
Giants Secure John Harbaugh
The New York Giants have confirmed a five-year agreement with John Harbaugh to become their new head coach. Delays in the announcement were attributed to the Giants’ organizational structure and ongoing challenges due to owner John Mara’s health issues. Harbaugh will now report directly to the Mara family, mirroring his previous role in Baltimore.
Dolphins Narrow Coaching Search
The Miami Dolphins are transitioning to the second phase of their coaching search. They have scheduled follow-up interviews with notable candidates such as Kevin Stefanski and Jeff Hafley. The team’s new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, along with owner Stephen Ross, is closely involved in the selection process.
Falcons Pursue Multiple Candidates
The Atlanta Falcons are also progressing in their coaching search. Kevin Stefanski, a prime candidate, is set to interview soon. The Falcons have opted to prioritize coaching appointments over the general manager search, allowing the future head coach to participate in selecting a GM.
- Stefanski is scheduled to meet with the Falcons and has also attracted interest from the Titans and Dolphins.
- Current Falcons’ defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich may remain on staff, should Stefanski be hired.
Titans Continue First-Round Interviews
The Tennessee Titans are set to conclude their initial interviews this weekend. Candidates include Jonathan Gannon and Robert Saleh, with a growing list of potential hires that includes Stefanski and Chiefs’ Matt Nagy. The Titans are focusing on finding a coach who fits their vision moving forward.
Raiders’ Ongoing Search for a Coach
The Las Vegas Raiders are nearing completion of their first round of interviews. Candidates like Mike LaFleur and Joe Brady have already participated. The organization is also scouting for a quarterback to draft, with eyes on Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza during the national title game.
Negotiations and Future Implications
Matt LaFleur’s ongoing negotiations with the Green Bay Packers may trigger additional shifts in coaching positions across the league. The outcome could influence teams looking for head coaches and offensive coordinators.
Overall, the NFL coaching carousel is in full swing as teams make pivotal decisions ahead of the playoffs. As second interviews begin, the focus sharpens on finding the right leadership to steer their franchises toward success.