The 2026 NFL coaching carousel has been busy, with several high-profile moves shaking up the league. Among the most notable is Mike McDaniel, who is expected to join the Los Angeles Chargers as the new offensive coordinator under head coach Jim Harbaugh, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. McDaniel, who was previously the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, will bring his offensive expertise to a team with playoff aspirations.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans have finalized a deal to bring Robert Saleh as their new head coach. Saleh, who spent the 2025 season as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, previously served as head coach of the New York Jets before being let go in 2024. Known for his strong defensive schemes, Saleh will look to build a competitive team around the Titans’ promising quarterback, Cam Ward, who showed significant growth during his rookie year.
The Buffalo Bills also made a major move by firing head coach Sean McDermott after nine seasons. Despite a successful regular season, McDermott’s inability to lead the Bills to a Super Bowl victory, especially with quarterback Josh Allen in his prime, led to the decision. General manager Brandon Beane will now be tasked with finding a new head coach for the franchise.
In Miami, the Dolphins have hired Jeff Hafley as their new head coach. Hafley, who was the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator for the past two seasons, will take the reins as the Dolphins aim to stabilize their roster and address their quarterback situation. Hafley’s experience as head coach at Boston College and his recent success with Green Bay’s defense make him a promising addition to the Dolphins’ staff.
On the same weekend, the New York Giants and John Harbaugh finalized a major coaching deal. Harbaugh, who spent 18 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, will now lead the Giants with a five-year, $100 million contract. The move signals a fresh start for the struggling franchise, which has seen a revolving door of head coaches since Tom Coughlin’s departure in 2016. Harbaugh will look to bring stability and success to a team in need of a strong leader.
The Atlanta Falcons also made a coaching change, hiring Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach. Stefanski, who previously coached the Cleveland Browns for six seasons, will look to turn around the Falcons’ fortunes, bringing with him a versatile offensive scheme. With a new direction and a solid coaching staff in place, the Falcons will aim to return to playoff contention soon.
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is expected to remain in charge for the upcoming season, with reports indicating that he will receive a contract extension. Despite a disappointing end to the season, the Packers chose to retain LaFleur, citing injuries as a major factor in the team’s struggles.
HIRED
John Harbaugh, New York Giants
Head coaching record: 180-113 regular season, 13-11 playoffs (including a Super Bowl title), 18 seasons with Baltimore Ravens
Why he was hired: The Giants have struggled to find stability in recent years, and after several coaching changes, Harbaugh is seen as the leader capable of turning the franchise around. At 63, Harbaugh still has plenty to offer, and his ability to develop talent, such as quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Cam Skattebo, will be key. With the backing of GM Joe Schoen and owner John Mara, Harbaugh aims to restore the Giants to their former glory.
Kevin Stefanski, Atlanta Falcons
Head coaching record: 45-56 regular season, 1-2 playoffs, six seasons with Cleveland Browns
Why he was hired: Stefanski’s offensive expertise is the main reason the Falcons brought him in. With a mix of coaching philosophies, he has the ability to work with quarterback Kirk Cousins and maximize the talent around him. With defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich staying on, the Falcons hope Stefanski can help end their playoff drought and make the most of a rebuilding roster.
Jeff Hafley, Miami Dolphins
Head coaching record: First job, was Packers defensive coordinator from 2024-25
Why he was hired: Hafley’s hiring is a strategic move for the Dolphins, given his experience with defensive schemes and leadership at Boston College. Miami’s challenges at quarterback make Hafley’s defensive-minded approach a smart move. He’ll focus on stabilizing the defense and managing the team’s personnel as the Dolphins look to get back on track.
Robert Saleh, Tennessee Titans
Head coaching record: 20-36, fired five games into fourth season with New York Jets
Why he was hired: Despite his struggles with the Jets, Saleh’s defensive acumen and leadership qualities make him an excellent fit for the Titans. Saleh is expected to lead the defense while helping develop the team’s young quarterback, Cam Ward. His calming presence could help steady the Titans’ franchise as they look to rebound from a difficult period.
FIRED
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
Record with team: 106-58 (including playoffs), nine seasons
Why he was fired: McDermott’s inability to deliver a Super Bowl win despite a strong roster, led by MVP quarterback Josh Allen, ultimately led to his dismissal. The Bills’ failure to overcome teams like the Kansas City Chiefs in the postseason contributed to his ouster. McDermott’s legacy of overachieving with a talented defense was overshadowed by his inability to finish the job.
STEPPED DOWN
Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers
Record with team: 201-126-2 (including playoffs), 19 seasons
Why he stepped down: After nearly two decades at the helm, Tomlin decided to step down from his role as head coach. While his time with the Steelers was marked by consistent success, including winning a Super Bowl, recent seasons of early playoff exits may have weighed on him. Tomlin could potentially take a break before returning to coaching in the future.
FIRED
- Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans (in season)
- Brian Daboll, New York Giants (in season)
- Raheem Morris, Atlanta Falcons
- Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland Browns
- Pete Carroll, Las Vegas Raiders
- Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals
- John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens
- Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins
- Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
