The 2026 NFL coaching carousel is in full swing, with significant moves and shifts happening across the league. Mike McDaniel, former Miami Dolphins head coach, is set to join the Los Angeles Chargers as their offensive coordinator under Jim Harbaugh, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans have made headlines by hiring Robert Saleh as their new head coach. Saleh, who spent the 2025 season as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, will now take on the challenge of rebuilding the Titans after their disappointing seasons. His experience in turning around struggling defenses makes him a strong candidate for the job, and he’ll aim to build a competitive squad around No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward.
In a surprising move, the Buffalo Bills have fired head coach Sean McDermott after a disappointing playoff loss. General manager Brandon Beane is expected to remain with the team and search for McDermott’s replacement.
The Dolphins, fresh off of McDaniel’s departure, have hired Jeff Hafley as their new head coach. Hafley, who served as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator the past two years, has experience as a head coach at Boston College and is known for his ability to improve defensive units. Miami hopes his defensive expertise will help the team stabilize and move forward as they figure out their quarterback situation.
Other notable moves include the New York Giants’ hiring of John Harbaugh, former Baltimore Ravens head coach, as their new head coach. Harbaugh’s five-year, $100 million contract makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NFL. He’ll bring much-needed stability to a franchise that has struggled in recent years.
Kevin Stefanski, former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, was hired by the Atlanta Falcons to lead their team. Stefanski, known for his offensive acumen, will look to revive a struggling Falcons franchise and hopefully end their eight-year playoff drought.
COACHING HIRES
John Harbaugh, New York Giants
Head Coaching Record: 180-113 regular season, 13-11 playoffs (1 Super Bowl title), 18 seasons with Baltimore Ravens
Why He Was Hired: The Giants’ long-standing issues with head coaching instability have led them to seek a proven winner in Harbaugh. With a roster that includes talented players like quarterback Jaxson Dart and defensive star Dexter Lawrence, Harbaugh’s leadership could bring the franchise back to prominence.
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 system and ability to work with quarterbacks makes him a great fit for the Falcons, who need guidance on offense. With a defense that made strides last season, Stefanski could help elevate the Falcons’ playoff prospects.
Jeff Hafley, Miami Dolphins
Head Coaching Record: First job, was Packers defensive coordinator from 2024-2025
Why He Was Hired: Hafley’s defensive prowess, along with his background in improving defensive units, makes him a smart choice for Miami. With significant changes coming to the roster, Hafley’s task will be to stabilize the Dolphins and build a long-term contender.
Robert Saleh, Tennessee Titans
Head Coaching Record: 20-36, fired five games into fourth season with New York Jets
Why He Was Hired: Saleh brings experience in defensive coaching and is seen as a steady leader. With his reputation for strong defenses, Saleh’s challenge will be to rebuild a Titans team that has struggled in recent seasons, particularly after firing Mike Vrabel.
COACHING FIRINGS
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills
Record with Team: 106-58 (including playoffs), nine seasons
Why He Was Fired: Despite his success in the regular season, McDermott’s inability to lead the Bills to a Super Bowl, especially with MVP quarterback Josh Allen, ultimately led to his departure. Multiple playoff disappointments, including losses to the Kansas City Chiefs, sealed his fate.
COACHING CHANGES
- 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
