The NFL coaching carousel is spinning at full speed, and as playoff football dominates the headlines, there’s plenty going on behind the scenes with teams looking to lock down their next head coach. As of Saturday afternoon, nine franchises are deep into the search process-some closing in on final decisions, others still casting a wide net. Let’s break down where each team stands and what moves could be coming next.
Arizona Cardinals: Jeff Hafley Getting a Closer Look
The Cardinals are moving quickly in their search, and Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is emerging as a serious contender. Arizona wants to bring Hafley in for a second interview, a clear sign that he’s impressed in the early stages.
Another name in the mix is Robert Saleh, who reportedly would take over defensive play-calling duties if given a second shot at a head coaching role. That detail speaks volumes-it suggests Arizona is eyeing a coach with a clear vision and hands-on approach, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski Leading the Pack
All signs point toward Kevin Stefanski becoming the next head coach in Atlanta. The former Browns head coach is scheduled to meet with the Falcons on Saturday, and the team has already satisfied the Rooney Rule requirements, which means a hire could come quickly.
Stefanski’s offensive background and experience in building a playoff-caliber team in Cleveland make him a logical fit for a Falcons roster that’s shown flashes but needs a steady hand at the top. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is expected to stay on, which could provide a sense of continuity on that side of the ball.
Former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel was also brought in for an interview, but Stefanski appears to be the frontrunner.
Cleveland Browns: Revisiting Jim Schwartz
The Browns are circling back to their own defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz, as they weigh their options. That’s not a surprise-Schwartz has been instrumental in building one of the league’s most physical, disruptive defenses.
Cleveland is also giving a close look to Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, who interviewed Saturday. The Browns are clearly trying to find the right balance between maintaining their defensive identity and injecting some fresh ideas on offense.
New York Giants: John Harbaugh Deal Close to Done
After a drawn-out negotiation process, it looks like the Giants are finally on the verge of finalizing a deal with John Harbaugh. Word first broke on Wednesday that the two sides were closing in, and now it appears Saturday could be the day it gets done. Harbaugh brings a proven track record and a no-nonsense leadership style-exactly what a franchise like the Giants needs as they try to reset and build a contender.
Las Vegas Raiders: Miami Meetings on Deck
The Raiders are heading to Miami for a key round of interviews, and Mike McDaniel is scheduled to meet with the team on Monday. The former Dolphins head coach is known for his offensive creativity, and it’s clear Las Vegas is looking to bring in a coach who can revitalize that side of the ball. They’ve also lined up a second interview with Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, signaling that both sides of the ball are being evaluated thoroughly in this process.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Defensive Focus in Search
Pittsburgh's interview requests so far have leaned heavily toward defensive-minded coaches. Jeff Hafley’s name continues to pop up-he’s become one of the most in-demand candidates of this cycle. The Steelers have long been a franchise that values toughness and defensive identity, so it makes sense they’re targeting coaches who align with that tradition.
Tennessee Titans: Mike McCarthy in the Building
Mike McCarthy was in the Titans’ facility on Saturday, and if hired, this would mark his third head coaching stop. Tennessee has already fulfilled the Rooney Rule requirements, which means they’re in position to make a move quickly. McCarthy brings a Super Bowl ring and years of experience managing veteran rosters-something the Titans could use as they try to turn the page and re-establish themselves as AFC contenders.
With nine teams in the mix and several interviews happening in rapid succession, this coaching cycle is shaping up to be one of the more dynamic in recent memory. As always, things can change quickly, but as of now, several franchises are inching closer to their next big hire. Stay tuned-this carousel isn’t slowing down anytime soon.