Eight teams are in the playoffs, and some teams are eliminated. The offseason has begun for most organizations within the league. Some are content with their staff, some teams have improved from the previous season, and some are ready for change.
The first coaching change was by the Atlanta Falcons, who fired Arthur Smith at 12:01 AM on Monday following their week 18 loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Falcons are looking in a completely different direction for their next head coach, interviewing the likes of Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh, Ravens Defensive Coordinator Mike McDonald, and Eagles Offensive Coordinator Brian Johnson. Although, the name most linked to is another coach leaving his organization.
Patriots longtime Head Coach Bill Belichick mutually parted ways with the team on January 11th, 2024. This comes after a 4-13 season coaching New England, his worst record as the team’s head coach. In succession of Belichick, the Patriots promoted Linebackers Coach Jerod Mayo, a former player and ex New England Patriot, is now the head coach. He hopes to take the roster in a new direction, as the Patriots need to modernize their scheme to the modern NFL landscape.
Another veteran head coach leaving his team is Ron Rivera. Rivera parted ways with the Washington Commanders after four years, making the playoffs once. Washington, who recently hired San Francisco 49ers assistant General Manager Adam Peters as their new General Manager, will be looking for a young, offensive mind to lead the charge in the new era of owner Josh Harris.
Teams also fired their coaches within the season are also looking for new leaders. The Las Vegas Raiders, who fired Josh McDaniels during the middle of the season, are looking for a replacement but may already have one within. Interim head coach Antonio Pierce was promoted to the position from linebackers coach following McDaniels, has won the locker room over and had a 5-4 record as coach. Pierce is beloved. Star edge rusher Maxx Crosby has publicly stated that if Pierce is not Head Coach, he will request a trade away from Las Vegas.
The Carolina Panthers are also looking for a new head coach as they fired Frank Reich after only holding the position for 11 games. Their future looks bleak, as they have limited draft capital and an owner with too much control over day-to-day operations. The Tennessee Titans shocked the football world by letting Mike Vibral go.
