As the NFL regular season concludes, the league enters a pivotal phase – the coaching carousel. This period, characterized by six to eight anticipated coaching vacancies and a potential six general manager openings, sets the stage for significant shifts in leadership across various franchises.
New England Patriots:
The uncertain future of Bill Belichick with the Patriots remains a focal point. Despite the lack of discussions between Belichick and owner Robert Kraft, insiders suggest a mutual parting may unfold. Speculation surrounds potential successors, with internal candidate Jerod Mayo leading the pack. The Krafts, who have never hired a GM in three decades, face critical decisions in the coming weeks.
Los Angeles Chargers:
Under the leadership of John Spanos, the Chargers embark on an extensive search for both head coach and general manager. The allure of the head coaching position, given impending salary-cap challenges, contrasts with a potentially narrower GM search. The Chargers, aiming for competitiveness in salary negotiations, approach the hiring process with an open-minded perspective.
Las Vegas Raiders:
Interim head coach Antonio Pierce’s commendable performance, including victories over reigning champions and division rivals, creates uncertainty about his and interim GM Champ Kelly’s future. The Raiders’ thorough interview process delays decisions, leaving Pierce and Kelly to weigh potential offers from other teams against the prospect of staying with the Raiders.
Chicago Bears:
A recent turnaround has bolstered Matt Eberflus’s position as head coach. The Bears’ impressive performance since Week 14 and Eberflus’s defensive prowess position him favorably for retention, irrespective of the Week 18 outcome against the Packers. Eberflus’s resilience may secure his role for the 2024 season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Todd Bowles’s chance at a playoff return becomes critical for his coaching future. A stumble in win-and-in opportunities could jeopardize his position. The Buccaneers, eager to avoid uncertainty, rely on Bowles to secure postseason success.
New Orleans Saints:
Dennis Allen’s expected return hinges on defensive success, with a fourth consecutive top-10 scoring finish anticipated. Contractual obligations, particularly Derek Carr’s presence in 2024, offer stability. However, a potential change in offensive coordinator creates a subplot to monitor.
Atlanta Falcons:
Arthur Smith’s tenure as head coach faces scrutiny, with owner Arthur Blank emphasizing the need for results. Despite cap challenges in the initial years, Smith and GM Terry Fontenot position the Falcons on the brink of a playoff berth. A Week 18 victory would strengthen Smith’s case for a fourth year.
Washington Commanders:
Speculation surrounds head coach Ron Rivera’s future, with new owner Josh Harris expected to make changes. Washington’s prolonged winless streak raises questions about the organization’s direction. The potential opening of the GM role adds complexity, with the structure of the front office becoming a crucial factor.
Carolina Panthers:
Owner David Tepper’s proactive approach to coaching changes continues, targeting Lions OC Ben Johnson. An offensive-minded coach is likely Tepper’s preference, with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero possibly staying on. The uncertainty extends to the general manager position, as Tepper contemplates a comprehensive overhaul.
As the NFL coaching carousel gains momentum, each franchise’s decisions will shape the league’s landscape for the upcoming season. The intricate dynamics of coaching changes, coupled with potential shifts in front-office structures, contribute to the anticipation and speculation surrounding this pivotal period in the NFL calendar.
