The 2026 NFL coaching carousel has accelerated with key developments including John Harbaugh’s imminent hiring by the New York Giants and Mike Tomlin’s departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers, setting the stage for a transformative offseason. These moves highlight a wave of changes across the league as teams seek new leadership after the regular season’s conclusion.
John Harbaugh, fired by the Baltimore Ravens on January 6 after 18 seasons, is close to finalizing a deal to become the next head coach of the New York Giants, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Harbaugh, with a 193-124 record including playoffs, is regarded as a top candidate and his potential move to New York would mark a significant shift for both franchises. The Giants, who fired Brian Daboll earlier in the season, are looking to stabilize under new leadership.
Simultaneously, Mike Tomlin stepped down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers following a 19-year tenure that included a Super Bowl win but recent playoff frustrations. His decision came less than 24 hours after the Steelers’ wild-card loss to the Houston Texans. Tomlin’s departure leaves the Steelers seeking only their third head coach since 1969, with candidates like Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley already in the interview mix.
The coaching changes extend beyond these high-profile cases. The Miami Dolphins fired Mike McDaniel after four seasons, while the Arizona Cardinals dismissed Jonathan Gannon following a 3-14 campaign. The Las Vegas Raiders parted ways with Pete Carroll after one season, and the Cleveland Browns fired Kevin Stefanski after six years. Additionally, the Atlanta Falcons fired head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, later hiring franchise legend Matt Ryan as president of football operations.
Interviews are underway across the league, with multiple teams vetting coordinators and former head coaches. For instance, the Baltimore Ravens have interviewed Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and others for their vacancy. The Tennessee Titans are considering candidates like Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and former Falcons coach Raheem Morris. The Pittsburgh Steelers have requested interviews with several defensive coordinators, indicating a focus on that side of the ball.
On the general manager front, the Miami Dolphins hired Jon-Eric Sullivan from the Green Bay Packers, and other teams are making front-office adjustments. The New York Giants are retaining general manager Joe Schoen, while the Cleveland Browns will keep Andrew Berry as GM to lead the coaching search. These moves aim to align football operations with new coaching hires.
The 2026 hiring cycle is notable for its depth, with nine head coaching openings and numerous candidates in play. Predictions suggest that experienced coaches like John Harbaugh could quickly land new roles, while coordinators such as Klint Kubiak and Vance Joseph are rising in prominence. The market is dynamic, with teams balancing immediate needs and long-term vision.
As the divisional round of the playoffs approaches, coaching searches will intensify, with second-round interviews expected soon. The outcomes will shape team rosters, draft strategies, and the competitive landscape for the 2026 season. Fans and analysts are closely watching how franchises like the Giants and Steelers navigate these transitions to build for future success.
