Now that the NFL regular season has concluded the NFL’s head coaching carousel has begun. Multiple head coaching vacancies have opened up around the league. Before Week 18 there were three head coaching positions available. Now there are five head coaching vacancies currently open.

During the past couple of days, teams have started to interview multiple candidates to fill those positions. There are a large group of candidates that could potentially fill the league’s head coaching vacancies. Here are some names that will receive consideration and could land an NFL head coaching job for the 2023 season.

Favorites to Land a Job

DeMeco Ryans: Defensive Coordinator, San Francisco 49ers

For the third season in a row, the San Francisco 49ers have produced a premier head coaching candidate. Before joining Kyle Shanahan’s coaching staff in 2017 DeMeco Ryans had a very decorated NFL career. During his ten-year playing career, Ryans won Defensive Rookie of the Year (2006), was a two-time Pro Bowler (2007 & 2009), and was named First Team All-Pro in 2007. Ryans took over for Robert Saleh as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator in 2021. The 49ers’ defense has arguably played at a higher level since Ryans took over. He has shown an ability to coach up back-up and rotational players to have major contributions to his talented unit. Ryans only interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings head coach opening last offseason.

Four of the five open vacant teams have requested to interview Ryans. The Houston Texans, Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, and Arizona Cardinals all want to interview Ryans for their head coach opening.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos

Ben Johnson: Offensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions

In recent weeks Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has been considered a sleeper candidate to land a head coaching job this offseason. It is safe to say now that a majority of the NFL world is now aware of who Johnson is and the job he has done this season with the Lions’ offense. Johnson has only one year of experience as an offensive coordinator. There is a concern that Johnson lacks the experience needed to be a head coach. However, it has become trendy recently to hire young offensive coaches with high levels of production. Detroit’s offense was one of the best in the league this past season despite being loitered with young unproven talent and having a limited playmaker at quarterback. Johnson could be the hottest offensive head coaching candidate without any prior head coaching experience.

Interestingly the three teams who could be starting a rookie quarterback next season all have interest in Johnson as a potential head coach. The Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and Carolina Panthers all have requested to interview Johnson this offseason.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans

Eijro Evero: Former Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos had a brutal year on and off the field. Almost every week both (former) head coach Nathaniel Hackett and quarterback Russell Wilson were publicly criticized because of how awful the team was on offense. The biggest positive to Denver’s season was how well their defense played all season. For much of the season, Denver’s defense was the only reason the Broncos had a chance in games. If the Broncos were able to score at least 21 points in all of their games this season they would have gone 11-7 instead of 5-12 and would be a wild-card team. Denver held their opponents to under 20 points in 11 of their first 14 games prior to Hackett being fired.

For the second year in a row, Evero played a crucial role in coaching up one of the league’s best defenses. Prior to coaching Denver’s defense this past season, he was the passing game coordinator and secondary coach for the Super Bowl Champion Los Angeles Rams. Evero was offered the interim head coach position after Hacket was fired. However, Evero declined because he wanted the opportunity to interview and coach his own team instead of trying to fix the mess that the Broncos team as a whole was this season.

Despite declining to be the interim head coach of the Denver Broncos he had an interview for their head coaching vacancy. Evero also has been requested by the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.

Best Fits: Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts

Shane Steichen: Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles finished the regular season with the NFL’s best record. Shane Steichen should be a head coach consideration because of how well the Philadelphia Eagles offense and team as a whole played this year. Not only has Jalen Hurts developed into an MVP candidate, but a majority of the Eagles’ offensive starters have also played at a Pro Bowl level this season. Hurts was named to the Pro Bowl along with A.J. Brown, Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, Miles Sanders, and Landon Dickerson. Also, DeVonta Smith, Jordan Mailata, and Isaac Seumalo were named Pro Bowl alternates. Steichen deserves credit for having potentially nine Pro Bowlers on his offense.

Not only has Steichen played a large role in the development of Jalen Hurts, but he was also the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers during Justin Herbert’s rookie season. Herbert won rookie of the year after breaking the NFL rookie records for passing touchdowns, passing yards per game, and completions. His role in developing two of the best young quarterbacks in the league Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts could land him a head coaching job as soon as this offseason. Any team looking to develop a young quarterback should consider Steichen for their head coach opening.

The Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and Carolina Panthers are interested in interviewing Steichen for their head coach opening. All three teams are expected to have major changes at quarterback for next year. Steichen’s experience coaching young quarterbacks is what could attractive these teams to him as a coach.

Best Fits: Houston Texans, Arizona Cardinals

Top Candidates from last offseason

Eric Bienemy: Offensive Coordinator, Kansas City Chiefs

This is the third offseason in a row Eric Bienemy will be a popular head coaching candidate. Bienemy’s offensive production added more accomplishments to his resume this past season. Patrick Mahomes is currently the favorite to win his second MVP with Bienemy as his offensive coordinator. Mahomes set the single-season record for most passing yards by a quarterback and led the league with 41 touchdown passes. He also had the second-highest passer rating of any quarterback that started more than four games. This was all without Pro Bowl wide receiver Tyreek Hill who was traded in the offseason. Sixth proud pick rookie running back Isiah Pacheco took over this backfield with 830 rushing yards and five touchdowns.

Many former assistant coaches from Andy Reid’s staff have gone on to become solid or great head coaches. It is mind-boggling why Bienemy hasn’t gotten his opportunity yet to lead a team. After interviewing for every vacancy in 2021, Bienemy only interviewed for Denver and New Orleans’ coaching vacancies last offseason. The Indianapolis Colts has been the only team so far to interview Bienemy for their head coaching opening.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals

Kellen Moore: Offensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys offense has had its ups and downs this season. But over the past three seasons, this has consistently been one of the best offenses in the league (when healthy). One season after being one of the most dominant passing attacks in the league, Dallas transformed into one of the best-rushing offenses in the league. Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott combined for 1,883 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns this past season. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has shown the ability to unleash Dallas’ offensive strengths based on personnel.

The former Boise State quarterback has been Dallas’ offensive coordinator since 2019. Moore was retained on Dallas’ staff even after they made the decision to replace Jason Garrett with Mike McCarthy. A team looking for a coach that could unlock their team’s offensive potential could look to poach Moore from the Cowboys coaching staff. Last offseason Moore interviewed for the open head coach vacancies in Denver, Jacksonville, Miami, and Jacksonville.

The Carolina Panthers are the only team currently that has requested to interview Moore for their head coach opening.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts

Jerod Mayo: Inside Linebackers Coach, New England Patriots

It makes a lot of NFL fans feel old to hear that former New England Patriots Pro Bowl linebacker Jerod Mayo is interviewing for head coaching opportunities. Mayo was drafted by the Patriots in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. During his career he won Defensive Rookie of the Year, is a Super Bowl champion, was voted to two Pro Bowls, and was named First-Team All-Pro in 2010. Unfortunately, Mayo’s career was cut short because of multiple consecutive injury-plagued seasons.

Now Mayo has been the Patriots’ inside linebacker coach since 2019, taking over for former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores. Mayo has become a well-respected coach for the Patriots early in his coaching career in that building and around the league. Despite an uncharacteristic poor season overall by the New England Patriots team, Mayo’s defense still performed at a high level.

Mayo has interviewed for three head coaching vacancies in the past two seasons including Denver and Las Vegas last offseason. He was rumored to be a hot candidate to land a defensive coordinator job, but after signing an extension with the Patriots he will likely remain there unless he lands a head coaching gig.

The Carolina Panthers are the only team that has requested to interview Mayo out of all the available openings around the league. If he was offered the job it would be hard for Mayo or the Patriots to deny this opportunity for him despite signing an extension.

Best Fits: Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals

Johnathan Gannon, Defensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles

Seemingly out of nowhere Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator was a head coaching candidate last offseason. After the season Philadelphia had Gannon has a strong case to land one of the head coaching openings this offseason. Philadelphia made outstanding additions to the defensive side of the ball including 2022 first-round pick Jordan Davis, Pro Bowl pass-rushing linebacker Haason Reddick, lockdown cornerback James Bradberry, and interception leader (despite only playing in 12 games) C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Gannon was under the national spotlight after last offseason and his unit did not disappoint. Philadelphia ranked third in the league in fewest points allowed, eighth in the league in fewest points given up, and allowed the fewest passing yards of any team this past season.

Gannon was a finalist to land the Houston Texans job last offseason. One year later not much has change since he is considered the favorite to replace Lovie Smith in Houston. Gannon has only been requested by the Houston Texans for their head coaching vacancy.

Best Fits: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts

Former Head Coaches

Sean Payton, Former Head Coach, New Orleans Saints

Last offseason Sean Payton shocked the world when he announced his retirement after being the head coach of the New Orleans Saints for 16 years. It turns out that Payton did not intend to be away from the league for long, he joined FOX Sports as an analyst to take the year off and remove himself from the mess that the Saints’ salary cap and draft pick situation. Payton is looking to return to the NFL this year if the right job opens up. However, it is worth noting that Payton is still under contract with the Saints and a team that hires him will have to trade with the Saints for the rights to hire him.

For the better part of two decades, Payton was one of the best offensive head coaches in the NFL. Without a doubt, he was one of the best offensive minds in the league. Payton brought the Saints from irrelevancy to a Super Bowl championship and turn this team into a perennial playoff contender. He has a 139-84 record and is a former Coach of the Year. It is very likely Payton may be enshrined in Canton as a Hall of Famer one day. A few notable players who have been developed by Payton into offensive stars or Saints legends include Drew Brees, Reggie Bush, Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas, Marquese Colston, Jimmy Graham, Michael Thomas, Alvin Kamara, Terron Armstead, Jermon Bushard, Ryan Ramczyk, Jahri Evans, Andrus Peat, and Carl Nicks.

Rumors have been speculating since the beginning of the year where Payton could land. There is a real possibility that he isn’t a fan of any of the openings that become available this offseason and he spends another season with FOX SPORTS. Only three of the available openings have requested to talk to Payton. The Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, and Houston Texans all want the opportunity to land Payton.

Best Fits: Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans

Jim Harbaugh, Head Coach, Michigan

After two straight seasons of being the #2 ranked team in the College Football National Playoffs, it seems that the Michigan Wolverines have peaked with Jim Harbaugh running the program. For the second straight season, Michigan has lost in the first round of the CFP and did not advance to the National Championship game. Now more than ever it feels appropriate for Harbaugh to consider leaving his alma matter to return to the NFL.

When he was an NFL head coach Harbaugh was considered one of the best in the league. During his time with the San Fransisco 49ers, his teams were among the most dominant in the NFL. His record with the 49ers was 44-19-1 and made the playoffs every year except for one 8-8 season. Harbaugh won Coach of the Year in 2011 and appeared in the NFC Championship in three of his four seasons. He also was a Michael Crabtree catch on fourth down from becoming a Super Bowl-winning head coach.

There is a lot of murkiness surrounding what Harbaugh will do this off-season. He initially made a statement saying he would return to Michigan. Then reports started to come up about Harbaugh possibly facing suspension after being accused of multiple NCAA violations. Following those reports, there have been reports that Harbaugh will now interview for NFL jobs.

Last offseason Harbaugh interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings opening but was turned down after not fully preparing for the interview process. He expected to be handed the job rather than have to convince ownership why he would have been a great fit with the team. The Denver Broncos are the only team to request to interview Harbaugh this off-season. But it seems unlikely now that Harbaugh would take a job now that Michigan’s president Santo Ano told reporters that Harbaugh told him he would return to Michigan next season.

Best Fits: Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts

Frank Reich, Former Head Coach, Indianapolis Colts

It is hard to recall a situation where a coach fell from being one of the highest regarded in the league to being on the hot seat as quickly as it happened for former Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich. In his first season with the team in 2018 Reich coaches a team that was awful the season prior to the playoffs. However, the following season the Indianapolis Colts organization was blindsided by the sudden retirement of Andrew Luck. Since that season the Colts haven’t been able to find a franchise quarterback for a multitude of reasons. Reich’s offenses were led by notable players like Jacoby Brissett, Phillip Rivers, Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, and Sam Ehlinger following Luck’s retirement.

After seeing how the team performed once Reich was relieved, there is speculation that team owner Jim Irsay relieved Reich for one of two reasons. He either was so frustrated by the start of the team and the inability to find a franchise quarterback that he blamed Reich and let him go. The other reason is could have been that he felt like Reich wasn’t the long-term answer but was also too good of a coach to let this team play poorly enough to land a franchise quarterback in the draft.

Reich had done a great job putting his quarterbacks in comfortable situations. His Colts teams had outstanding offensive line play and at a minimum one of the best running attacks to back them up. He is highly respected by his players and by his peers. In the four seasons he was with Indianapolis he built this franchise from the ground up adding and developing a lot of young talent. He just was unable to find the quarterback to be the face of the franchise.

There is arguably no hotter offensive coordinator candidate on the market than Reich. Teams with a vacancy at the position should be lining up to add Reich to their staff. However, there is also a good chance a team decides to give Reich an opportunity to run a team a few months after being let go by Indianapolis. The Carolina Panthers view Reich as a candidate to fill their head coaching vacancy. They are the only team to request to interview him.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos

Dan Quinn, Defensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys

Dan Quinn was one of the hottest head coaching candidates last off-season. It was a shock to many when he decided to stay in Dallas for another season. Quinn was fired from the head coach position with the Atlanta Falcons early in the 2020-21 season. Then he was hired to replace Mike Nolan as the Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator the following offseason. Within one season Quinn coached this unit up from one of the league’s worst to one of the most talented units in the league. His defense played at a high level this past season cementing him as one of the best defensive coaches in the league.

The two of the stars on Quinn’s defense Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs became the first pair of teammates to have 10+ interceptions and 10+ sacks in the same season last year. This past season Diggs showed the league that he is more than a ballhawk. Parsons played at a defensive player of the year level for the second season in a row.

The changes Quinn has made to his coaching philosophy could attract some teams to potentially hire him for their head coaching openings. On top of the success he has had the past two seasons in Dallas, Quinn also has a Super Bowl victory as the defensive coordinator of the Seattle Seahawk and another Super Bowl appearance as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.

For the second season in a row, the Denver Broncos are interested in potentially making Quinn their head coach. Last offseason Quinn decided to stay in Dallas instead of continuing with the interview process with the Broncos.

Best Fits: Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers

Jim Caldwell, Former Assistant Head Coach & Quarterbacks Coach, Miami Dolphins

Despite Jim Caldwell’s history of being a successful coach, he was fired twice. His first time was after the 2-14 Peyton Manning-less season after winning the division his first two years with the team. In Detroit, he was fired after his second straight 9-7 season after making the playoffs two out of his four years there. The Lions thought an upgrade to the head coach position would propel them to the next level. However, hiring Matt Patricia held them back and has resulted in the team blowing it up and beginning a major rebuild.

Caldwell was then hired by the Dolphins to be a quarterback coach, but left the team due to health reasons and was eventually let go. Now he is ready to potentially get his third NFL head coaching job. Caldwell has gotten quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Matthew Stafford to perform at their highest levels while playing for him which would appeal to some teams in need of a quarterback guru.

He interviewed for the Jacksonville Jaguars job and made it to the second round of interviews in Chicago as well last off-season. Caldwell has already gained interest from the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos to fill their head coach openings. The Washington Commanders reached out to Caldwell for their offensive coordinator opening as well, however, reports say he is focusing on landing a head coaching position this offseason.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos

Raheem Morris, Defensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams

There has been a legitimate point over the past two seasons where Raheem Morris could have been promoted to head coach of the Los Angeles Rams. Sean McVay decided to stay as the team’s head coach so Morris is still in a position to be the team’s defensive coordinator. However, there is a chance Morris is poached by another team to fill their head coaching vacancy.

Morris’ first opportunity to be a head coach came in 2009 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They had a 10-6 record in his second season. However, the team decided not to financially support Morris’ roster resulting in Morris getting fired following a 4-12 season in 2011-12.

Two seasons ago after Dan Quinn was let go in Atlanta, the team chose Raheem Morris to be the team’s interim head coach to finish the year. The Falcons have a 4-7 record under Morris. But the Falcons rallied behind him and played competitive football down the stretch that year. They have only lost one game by over eight points.

He hasn’t landed a head coaching job the past two offseason, but he replaced Brandon Staley as the Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator. In his first season with the Rams, he helped coach this team to a Super Bowl victory. He has quickly emerged as one of the most respected defensive coordinators in league circles. Both the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts have requested to interview Morris for their head coaching openings.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos

Leslie Frazier, Defensive Coordinator, Buffalo Bills

Two seasons ago Leslie Frazier gained some steam as a head coaching candidate during the interview process. Frazier has become one of the most respected defensive coordinators around the league. He did not have much success as the head coach in Minnesota. But it is hard to put all that blame on him considering Christian Ponder was the team’s starting quarterback during his term with the team. Then in his final season, he bounced between Ponder, Josh Freeman, and Matt Cassel.

Frazier should be given credit for coaching a Christian Ponder lead team to the playoffs in 2012. But credit is due to Adrian Peterson’s outstanding MVP season that year as well. He has done a great job coaching the defense in Buffalo which has stars at every level and is one of the best units in the league. If Frazier is given a franchise quarterback he could redeem himself and show the league he is capable of being an NFL head coach.

Frazier interviewed with the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, and New York Giants last offseason. He made it to the second round of interviews with the Giants last year. His ties to Giants second-year general manager Joe Schoen definitely helped him get to that point. No team so far has requested to interview Frazier for their vacancies.

Best Fits: Arizona Cardinals, Indianapolis Colts

Bill O’Brien, Offensive Coordinator & Quarterback Coach, Alabama

There were a lot of people calling for Bill O’Brien to get fired during his final. year in Houston. The end of his tenure justified the treatment O’Brien received from the media. That being said it has been worth noting that the organization has been extremely dysfunctional the two seasons since O’Brien was fired.

While O’Brien was in Houston he only had one losing season (not including his final season) and always found ways to achieve success on the offensive side of the ball when he didn’t have stability at quarterback. He also helped coach Deshaun Watson into one of the best young quarterbacks in the league. This past season he coached Alabama quarterback Bryce Young who won the Heisman trophy.

O’Brien is a fine head coach at the NFL level. He just should not also be a general manager or have a larger-than-normal say when it comes to personnel decisions. If a team limited O’Brien’s input on personnel decisions and keeps tabs on his relationship with players he can be a great coaching hire for a team looking to make some major offensive improvements. His starting quarterback Bryce Young is expected to be drafted early in the 2023 NFL Draft. The idea of pairing O’Brien with Young in the pros could intrigue some teams.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos

Brian Flores, Senior Defensive Assistant & Linebackers Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

The most shocking firing of last year’s coaching cycle was former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores. He had a 24-25 record during his three seasons in Miami. Over his last two years, Flores had a 19-14 record. After starting 1-7 last season, Flores led his team to win eight of the nine final games of the season keeping them in the playoff picture.

There is not much more the Dolphins could have asked Flores to do with the roster he was dealt with. He had average-at-best quarterback play from Ryan Fitzpatrick, Josh Rosen, Tua Tagovailoa, and Jacoby Brissett. The Dolphins have lacked a running game and haven’t invested the assets necessary to boost that part of the offense. Miami’s front office had done an awful job with their rebuild outside of their early picks in the 2021 draft. Their attempt to rebuild their offensive line has been terrible. Out of the five offensive linemen Miami has drafted over his three-year tenure, Robert Hunt appears to be the only one that is playing like a starting-caliber offensive lineman.

The major additions of Terron Armstead, Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, Raheem Mostert, and Jeff Wilson Jr. would have been a huge help for Flores during his time with the team. This is not to say that Mike McDaniel has not done a great job this year. McDaniel’s offensive playbook and work with Tagovailoa have propelled the Dolphins to the playoff birth this year. But if Miami’s front office gave Flores the resources they provided McDaniel there is a chance he’d still be coaching the team.

The reports were that Flores was let go due to his relationship with the front office. He was able to land a job as an assistant on Mike Tomlin’s defensive staff despite his lawsuits against the league. Flores is currently considered one of the best defensive coordinator candidates available and could be a dark horse to get another head coaching gig this off-season.

Last offseason Flores interviewed with the New York Giants, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints head coach vacancies. Flores made it to the second round of interviews for the Houston Texans vacancy. The Arizona Cardinals are the only team so far to request to interview Flores.

Best Fits: Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans

Top Coordinators from well-coached teams

Don “Wink” Martindale, Defensive Coordinator, New York Giants

Don “Wink” Martindale was a part of John Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens coaching staff from 2012-21. In a shocking move, the Ravens decided to let go of Martindale. He then joined Brian Daboll’s staff in New York as his defensive coordinator.

After letting go of two former high-profile free agent acquisitions James Bradberry and Blake Martinez, New York’s defense played at a higher level than expected. A lot of the young players on this defense showed great steps this season.

Between when Martindale took over as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator in 2018 and this season, Martindale’s defense has ranked in the top 10 in all categories. He has done a great job coaching up young talented players like Zadairus Smith, Matthew Judon, Marlon Humphrey, Patrick Queen, Chuck Clark, and Odafe Oweh over the past couple of seasons. Martindale is well-beloved by his players. He was interviewed for the Giants opening two seasons ago.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers

Mike Kafka, Offensive Coordinator, New York Giants

Former NFL quarterback Mike Kafka became an assistant coach for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018. Kafka was drafted by Chiefs head coach Andy Reid when he was with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2010. Kafka went from a quality control coach to a quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator. He was expected to be the next offensive coordinator for the Chiefs once Eric Bienemy landed a head coaching job. However, Bienemy hasn’t been able to land a head coaching position in the past three offseasons.

Instead of waiting his turn to be the guy right under Andy Reid, Kafka became the offensive coordinator for Brian Daboll’s staff with the New York Giants. Similarly to Daboll’s journey to becoming a head coach, Kafka wanted to show that his success isn’t tied to being an assistant to just one great coach. Kafka’s offense surpassed expectations this season. Fourth-year quarterback Daniel Jones showed to potential to be a franchise quarterback and game manager. He also coached offense well enough to make the playoffs despite lacking star-level or proven skill-position players outside of Saquon Barkley.

The combination of what Kafka has done in Kansas City and New York has made him an intriguing head coaching candidate. He isn’t an extremely popular name but is a dark horse to land one of the open vacancies. The Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans have been the only teams to request to interview Kafka for their opening.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans

Brian Callahan, Offensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals

Over the past two seasons, the Cincinnati Bengals have joined the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills as one of the most explosive and fun offenses in the league. A major reason for Cincinnati’s success was bringing in offensive stars Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Ja’Marr Chase to an offense that features talented veterans like Joe Mixon and Tyler Boyd.

Offensive coordinator Brian Callahan deserves a lot of credit for putting the Bengals’ young star players in a position to succeed. Not only has Callahan put Cincinnati’s skill position players in a position to succeed early in their careers, he also gets consistent production from his stars every single week. It is rare that one of Cincinnati’s star players has a bad game.

He is able to balance the offense to not only get great production from their stars but also confused opposing defensive coordinators. Cincinnati can beat you offensively in multiple different ways. Ja’Marr Chase can touch a defense for over 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns on any given week. Joe Mixon could also rush over 200 scrimmage yards and have five touchdowns on opposing defenses. Both performances have happened over the past two seasons.

Callahan has made his way to his offensive coordinator position after working under multiple notable coaches throughout his career. He worked under Josh McDaniels, John Fox, Gary Kubiak, Jim Caldwell, Jon Gruden, and Zac Taylor. He was a part of Gary Kubiak’s staff when they won Super Bowl 50 in the 2015-16 season. It is also worth noting that Callahan is the son of former NFL head coach and highly respected offensive line coach for the Cleveland Browns Bill Callahan.

Best Fits: Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers

Lou Anarumo, Defensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals

The biggest talking point when it comes to the Cincinnati Bengals is their explosive offense. However an underrated part of their team that makes them legitimate Super Bowl contenders is their stout defense. Last season the Cincinnati Bengals run was started when their defense started playing at a high level. They showed that their stretch run last year wasn’t a fluke and continued the high level of play this season. A lot of the credit for the outstanding play of Cincinnati’s defense should go to defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.

It is fair to say that no defensive coordinator has done more with less than Anarumo. This defense has a lot of talented players but doesn’t have a superstar player that is a household name. He has coached this group mostly made up of free-agent additions and mid-round draft picks into one of the better units in the league.

His starting defense (when healthy) features players like Trey Hendrickson, Sam Hubbard, D.J. Reeder, B.J. Hill, Logan Wilson, Germaine Pratt, Eli Apple, Chidobe Awuzie, Mike Hilton, Daxton Hill, Jessie Bates III, and Vonn Bell. Outside of Hendrickson and Bates III none of their starters have received awards or recognition for outstanding play. But all of their starters have well enough to where there is no glaring need on this defense that could hold this team back.

It is shocking that no team has requested to bring Anarumo in for an interview for what he has done over the past two seasons. He could be a front-runner for a head coaching opportunity for the 2024 off-season if Cincinnati’s defense plays at a high level for a third season in a row.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers

Duce Staley, Assistant Head Coach & Running Backs Coach, Detroit Lions

Over the past few seasons, there has been a head coaching candidate that has emerged from their time on HBO’s Hard Knocks. Detroit Lions’ assistant head coach and running backs coach Duce Staley gained some national attention from his time with Hard Knocks. But prior to his time on Hard Knocks, Staley has emerged as one of the most respected assistant coaches in the league.

Staley has a productive 10-year career as a running back for both the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers. He rushed for over 1,000 yards three times throughout his career and also was a member of the 2005-06 Super Bowl-winning Pittsburgh Steelers team.

Back in 2011, Staley joined Andy Reid’s staff as a special teams coach. Staley played four Reid’s Eagles four seasons between 1999-2003. After Reid was let go, the Eagles brought in Chip Kelly who promoted Staley to running backs coach. In 2016 Staley interviewed for the Eagles’ head coaching job after Kelly was fired. But ultimately they chose Doug Pederson over Staley. He was retained by Pederson to hold the same position, but then also took on the responsibilities of being the assistant head coach in 2018. After Pederson was fired in 2020 Dan Campbell hired Staley to hold both titles with his team the Detroit Lions.

Teams could be interested in Staley because of his ties to multiple successful head coaches. He has coached for two coach of the year winners and was on the staff for Doug Pederson’s 2017-18 Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles team. Staley could also bring a similar culture and identity to a team that Dan Campbell has with Detroit Lions. Staley has the respect of the players because he is a former player himself and he also is very intense.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts

Current Members of the Organization that could become the full-time head coach

Jeff Saturday, Interim Head Coach, Indianapolis Colts

Many were shocked to see that Jeff Saturday is considered a legitimate coaching candidate for the Indianapolis Colts head coaching job. That news is not as shocking as when Saturday was named the team’s interim head coach. Prior to being named the interim head coach Saturday had been a decorated ESPN NFL analyst for a few years. Indianapolis named Saturday the head coach after letting go of Frank Reich in early November. Reich started the season 3-5-1 before getting let go. Saturday finished the season going 1-7 in his final eight games (0-7 in his final seven games).

Despite his rough tenure as the interim head coach, Jeff Saturday will always be known as an Indianapolis Colts legend. He joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 1999. Saturday played 13 seasons with Indianapolis. He was the team’s starting center for 12 of the 13 seasons he spent with the team. During his tenure with the team, Saturday had a Hall of Fame career playing with offensive Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor inductees like Peyton Manning, Edgerrin James, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and Tarik Glenn. Saturday was a four-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler with Indianapolis.

It is hard to give a great reason why Indianapolis should retain Saturday for their head coaching vacancy. He showed that it is extremely difficult to be an NFL head coach with little-to-no coaching experience. The only reason for the Colts to bring Saturday back is if the players really bought into him as a coach. However, based on their play late in the season that doesn’t appear to be the case.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts

Vance Joseph, Defensive Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals

One of the first candidates to be announced for the Arizona Cardinals head coaching vacancy was defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. Prior to his time in Arizona, Joseph had been the head coach for the Denver Broncos for two seasons between 2017-19.

His tenure as head coach for the Broncos did not have great results due to the lack of a franchise quarterback. Joseph’s starting quarterbacks included Trevor Siemian, Brock Osweiller (second tenure with the team), Paxton Lynch, and Case Keenum. Joseph was never given a great opportunity to draft a franchise quarterback despite passing on Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson and taking Bradley Chubb with the fourth overall pick in 2018.

Prior to taking the Broncos job in 2017, there was a lot of hope for Joseph as a head coach after his tenure as defensive coordinator with the Miami Dolphins. He has always elevated his defense to play at a high level no matter where he has been. Even this past season Arizona’s defense played at a high level despite lacking premier proven talent. If he was to retain this job Joseph would be able to continue to develop the young defensive talent on this roster like Isaiah Simmons and Zaven Collins. Joseph would be able to show what many thought he could do a few years back with Denver now that he has a franchise quarterback in place in Kyler. Murray.

Best Fits: Arizona Cardinals

Steve Wilks, Interim Head Coach, Carolina Panthers

In each of the past three seasons, there has been an interim head coach that deserves to be the team’s head coach going forward. This year’s interim head coach that had an impressive season was the Carolina Panthers’ Steve Wilks. Carolina started 1-4 before firing head coach Matt Rhule. Wilks was promoted from Defensive passing game coach and secondary coach to head coach. He finished the season with a 6-6 record.

Wilks had been a head coach earlier in his career. He was the Arizona Cardinals’ head coach for the 2018-19 season. He had taken over for a team whose head coach (Bruce Arians) and starting quarterback (Carson Palmer) had just retired. In the offseason, the team cut former All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu so they could sign Sam Bradford to a one-year $20 million deal. They also traded up to take Josh Rosen with the 10th overall pick. Bradford only started three games before getting benched for Rose. The team finished with a 3-13 record landing them the first overall pick.

Arizona had decided that despite taking a quarterback the year prior they were going to take Kyler Murray with the first overall pick. Then Wilks was fired so they could hire Kliff Kingsbury to bring in an offensive system that would better fit Murray’s play style.

This team rallied around Wilks this season. After he took over as head coach this defense was one of the best in the league. Based on who Carolina is interviewing they are looking to bring in an offensive mind to coach up their next starting quarterback. But if they want to build upon what they did down the stretch last season they should consider retaining Wilks.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers

Bubba Ventrone: Special Teams Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts

A name that emerged on the head coaching radar last year was Indianapolis Colts Special Teams Coordinator Bubba Ventrone. He was a star on Hard Knocks last season. Many thought Ventrone would be named the interim head coach once Frank Reich was fired.

Over the last couple of seasons, Ventrone’s unit has been one of the better-coached units in the league. There is no other special teams unit that consistently plays at a higher level than the Indianapolis Colts. Special teams coordinators aren’t popular candidates for head coaching jobs but Ventrone has shown he is capable of coaching both sides of the ball.

If Indianapolis doesn’t retain Ventrone in a head coaching or special teams coordinator role he will be one of the hottest free-agent special team coaches on the market this offseason.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts

Other candidates that could be a year away

Aaron Glenn, Defensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions

It has not taken long for Aaron Glenn to become one of the more popular and well-respected defensive coordinators in the league. Glenn’s career as a player definitely helped speed up the process for him to become a well-known assistant coach. He played 15 years in the league and was a three-time Pro Bowler in that span. Glenn was chosen to be the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions after doing outstanding work with the New Orleans Saints as their defensive backs coach.

Over the past two seasons, Detroit’s defense has not put up great numbers. Last season it was one of the worst all-around defenses in multiple categories. This past season they showed slight improvement playing tough run defenses down the stretch. Glenn’s defense is made up of mostly young and unproven talent. However young players Jeff Okuah, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeil, Kerby Joseph, James Houston, and Malcolm Rodriguez appear to be cornerstones for this defense. Detroit also has young promising rotational players like Levi Onwuzurike and Josh Paschal who could have larger impacts next year.

He would be considered a more serious candidate for a job if his unit had better production. Detroit’s defense needs to take larger steps forward next year for Glenn’s sake and the team’s sake. If this team regresses next season Glenn could even find himself on the hot seat. The Indianapolis Colts are interested in Glenn as a candidate for their head coach vacancy.

Best Fits: Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals

Ken Dorsey, Offensive Coordinator, Buffalo Bills

It did not take long for Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey to get opportunities to interview for a head coaching job. It helps when Dorsey gets the opportunity to call plays for the most physically talented quarterback in the league Josh Allen. Even though Brian Daboll left the Bills to become the head coach of the New York Giants the Bills’ offense did not skip a beat with Dorsey calling the plays.

Dorsey was one of the hottest offensive coordinator candidates in the league last off-season. He had the opportunity to replace Daboll in Buffalo or follow him to New York to be his offensive coordinator. Dorsey decided to replace Daboll and become the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills.

Dorsey had started his career with Ron Rivera’s Carolina Panthers as the team’s quarterbacks coach in 2013. He held that position until Rivera was fired by Carolina and former Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott brought Dorsey onto his staff to be his quarterbacks coach in 2019. He was the passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach last season before taking over for Daboll.

The Carolina Panthers are interested in a reunion with Dorsey where he could fill their head coaching vacancy. This has happened before in recent memory where teams have brought in former assistants of long-respected head coaches of their franchise. A situation similar to this is when Philadelphia hired Doug Pederson who used to work for Andy Reid in Philadelphia.

Best Fits: Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans

Frank Smith, Offensive Coordinator, Miami Dolphins

Every team appears to be looking for the next young offensive coach from the Kyle Shanahan or Sean McVay coaching trees. It seems unlikely that an offensive candidate from those coaching trees will get an opportunity to become a head coach this off-season. However, the next offensive coach from Shanahan’s coaching tree could be identified as Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith. Even though Smith never worked under Shanahan, he was the offensive coordinator for former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

He is responsible for creating the script for Tua Tagovailoa to thrive in that offense every week along with head coach Mike McDaniel. They added skill position players with elite speed in Tyreek Hill and Raheem Mostert to go with Jaylen Waddle to give Tagovailoa an outstanding group of receivers. Tagovailoa’s responsibility on every play was to get the ball to his pass catchers who should have the space to make big plays.

Smith was given a lot of credit for helping develop Darren Waller into the offensive weapon he is today. He was the tight ends coach for the Raiders for Waller’s first three seasons with the team. He was also the offensive line coach for the Los Angeles Chargers last offseason in Rashawn Slater’s rookie year.

Best Fits: Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos

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• Source: https://thegamehaus.com/sports/nfl-head-coaching-candidates-for-the-2023-season/2023/01/17/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nfl-head-coaching-candidates-for-the-2023-season