The NFL regular season is coming to an end, and with it comes the traditional “Black Sunday and Black Monday,” the days on which multiple head coach firings are traditionally announced in the league
So far, Brian Callahan (Tennessee Titans) and Brian Daboll (New York Giants) have already lost their jobs. But the list could grow in the coming days, with several head coaches in the spotlight.
Those who feel the most pressure
Pete Carroll – Las Vegas Raiders
Record: 2-14 | First season
The Raiders hired Carroll to stabilize the project, but the reality has been different: the team has not won since Week 6, the experiment with Geno Smith did not work, there were dismissals in the staff in November and there was a dispute with Maxx Crosby after he was sent to the injured reserve list.
He could be saved because his track record as a coach is solid and the franchise has already spent a lot of money on recent settlements, but today it seems difficult to justify his continuity.Kevin Stefanski – Cleveland Browns
Record: 45-58 (including playoffs) | Sixth season
Cleveland is heading for its fourth losing record in six years and another Top 5 draft pick. The failed trade for Deshaun Watson also involves him.
In his favor, Stefanski has competed with limited talent, made the playoffs twice and has backing for his stability and experience.
Raheem Morris – Atlanta Falcons
Record: 15-18 | Second season of this stage
Atlanta has shown regression despite some important victories. The structure of the team looks unstable and its project does not convince.
However, part of the problem lies more with management than with him, so he could be given one more year.Jonathan Gannon – Arizona Cardinals
Record: 15-35 | Third season
He arrived to strengthen the defense, but the team is still among the worst in defensive metrics and there is no clear improvement.
It can be argued that the biggest question mark for the team is the performance of QB Kyler Murray. With better play at that position, it could be evaluated differently.
Mike McDaniel – Miami Dolphins
Record: 35-34 (including playoffs) | Fourth season
Miami started its cycles strong, but ended up falling apart at key moments. Its offense lost impact and internal problems have questioned its leadership.
It could be maintained due to the context of Tua Tagovailoa, his physical limitations and the salary impact of moving him.
With the support of the owner
Aaron Glenn – New York Jets
Record: 3-13 | First season
The Jets have been uncompetitive and their defense has regressed. The offense also failed to respond and there were tough decisions such as the departure of the defensive coordinator.
However, Woody Johnson has made it clear that he blames the QB position more than the coach, and the franchise has multiple high draft picks to rebuild under his leadership.
Established… but under pressure
John Harbaugh – Baltimore Ravens
Record: 193-123 | 18th season
Baltimore has been inconsistent and there are questions about its game management and the lack of another Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson.
Its strong suit is historical stability: only two losing seasons and a long track record of success.Mike Tomlin – Pittsburgh Steelers
Record: 200-125-2 | 19th season
There were moments of strong pressure, even chants asking for his departure. A key defeat revived doubts, especially if they are left out of the playoffs.
However, the management values continuity and Tomlin is still considered one of the best coaches in the league.
Todd Bowles – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Record: 35-35 | Fourth season
A bad run set off alarm bells, with inexplicable defeats and a lack of clear direction.
In their favor: Previous divisional titles and the real possibility of still winning the NFC South.
Zac Taylor – Cincinnati Bengals
Record: 57-64-1 | Seventh seasonThree years without playoffs in the prime of Joe Burrow’s career is a burden. The QB’s injuries are a factor, but the lack of protection and defensive weaknesses are also the responsibility of the staff.
He is protected by his arrival at the Super Bowl in 2021 and Cincinnati’s well-known reluctance to pay farewells.
Interim coaches
Mike Kafka – New York Giants
Record: 1-5
Poor results and strong internal changes generate doubts.
However, he has long been considered an interesting candidate for his offensive work.Mike McCoy – Tennessee Titans
Record: 2-8
He took over in the midst of chaos and the results have not been good.
Although the team has shown slight improvement, it would be surprising if he were to stay permanently.
With the regular season about to close, the NFL is gearing up for some intense days. Franchise front offices will be evaluating projects, results and the future. “Black Sunday” is approaching… and several coaches are waiting for their fate.
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