NFL Experts Rank Top Head Coach Openings: Buffalo or Baltimore?
The NFL’s head coaching vacancies have become highly competitive, with candidates strategically eyeing the most appealing openings. This cycle has witnessed a significant eight teams looking for new leadership. Among these, the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens rank as the top contenders for attractive positions, according to a recent poll by The Athletic.
NFL Head Coach Openings Ranked
As of the latest developments, here is the ranking of teams seeking head coaches based on their desirability:
| Rank | Team | Points | First-Place Votes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buffalo Bills | 96 | 7 |
| 2 | Baltimore Ravens | 88 | 2 |
| 3 | New York Giants | 81 | 1 |
| 4 | Atlanta Falcons | 63 | 0 |
| 5 | Pittsburgh Steelers | 62 | 0 |
| 6 | Tennessee Titans | 49 | 0 |
| 7 | Miami Dolphins | 39 | 1 |
| 8 | Cleveland Browns | 36 | 0 |
| 9 | Las Vegas Raiders | 21 | 0 |
| 10 | Arizona Cardinals | 15 | 0 |
Buffalo Bills: The Premier Opening
The Buffalo Bills topped the rankings with 96 points and seven first-place votes. Despite firing Sean McDermott, who led the team to eight playoff appearances in nine seasons, they are considered the best opportunity due to star quarterback Josh Allen. His impending 30th birthday places the franchise in prime position for sustained success.
Baltimore Ravens: A Model of Stability
Ranking second, the Baltimore Ravens scored 88 points, garnering two first-place votes. As they search for their fourth head coach, the franchise boasts the stability of a well-structured organization and a two-time MVP quarterback, Lamar Jackson. However, potential candidates must align with Jackson’s unique playing style.
Other Notable Openings
- New York Giants: Secured 81 points and hired John Harbaugh, fostering hope for a franchise rejuvenation.
- Atlanta Falcons: With 63 points, they are undergoing structural changes, with a focus on rebuilding under Arthur Blank.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Received 62 points and are seeking stability after Mike Tomlin’s departure.
- Tennessee Titans: Scored 49 points but face challenges in finding direction amid recent changes.
- Miami Dolphins: With 39 points, new hire Jeff Hafley faces a tough balance between rebuilding and roster management.
- Cleveland Browns: At 36 points, they continue to grapple with roster challenges and prior coaching instability.
- Las Vegas Raiders: Managed only 21 points, marking a turbulent coaching history under owner Mark Davis.
- Arizona Cardinals: Finalized the list with 15 points, facing criticism and a streak of poor performance.
Conclusion
The upcoming head coaching cycle in the NFL reveals that job openings vary greatly in attractiveness. With the Bills and Ravens leading the list, candidates will undoubtedly consider the current rosters and organizational stability before making their choices.
