2026 NFL Coaching Updates: Dolphins Part Ways with Mike McDaniel, Ravens Move on from John Harbaugh, Cowboys Dismiss Defensive Coordinator Matt Eberflus

The NFL Coaching Carousel: Moves, Surprises, and What’s Next

In the NFL, the annual head coaching shuffle has picked up momentum as teams that fell short of playoff aspirations begin their search for new leadership. With 2026 on the horizon, franchises are eager to recalibrate and strategize for a brighter future.

Key Coaching Changes

The frenzy started earlier than the traditional “Black Monday” as the Miami Dolphins made headlines by firing head coach Mike McDaniel following a tumultuous season. The Dolphins, who experienced a promising resurgence after a rocky 1-6 start, couldn’t save their coach from termination despite finishing strong. McDaniel’s record of 35-35, including playoffs, speaks to a team that never fully capitalized on its potential.

On another tumultuous front, the Baltimore Ravens made the surprising decision to part ways with John Harbaugh after an impressive 18-season tenure, which included a Super Bowl victory. Harbaugh’s dismissal has sent shockwaves through the league, making the Ravens’ job one of the most coveted openings available, as it promises a fresh strategy for a team that had been struggling to maximize its talent, particularly with a two-time MVP quarterback, Lamar Jackson, at the helm.

The Shift in Defensive Strategies

Coaching changes aren’t limited to head coaches; they extend to coordinators as well. The Dallas Cowboys sacked defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after the team conceded over 500 points for the first time in franchise history. This move underscores a broader trend in the NFL where defenses are being reevaluated amidst offensive explosions across the league.

Similarly, the Washington Commanders informed offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. about their exits. Both coordinators were integral to Dan Quinn’s staff but became casualties of a franchise looking to pivot after missing the playoffs.

The Early Tidings of Departure

The week began with the Atlanta Falcons firing head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after a lackluster 8-9 season. Morris’ dismissal, despite winning the final games of the season, illustrates the pressures of meeting organizational expectations in a win-now league. There’s speculation that former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan could return in a new role as president, hinting at a potential complete overhaul of their football operations.

On Monday, the Cleveland Browns also made a major change, parting ways with head coach Kevin Stefanski. After four seasons that included ups and downs, the Browns’ inability to solidify the quarterback situation, particularly surrounding the controversial trade for Deshaun Watson, contributed to Stefanski’s exit.

Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders followed suit, parting ways with Pete Carroll, who just completed a dismal season at the helm. Carroll, once celebrated for his successes in Seattle, struggled to inspire a team in dire need of reestablishment after last year’s debacle.

Coaches Remaining in Place

On the flip side, not every coach has felt the heat this offseason. The Indianapolis Colts’ Shane Steichen and the Cincinnati Bengals’ Zac Taylor have been confirmed to return, highlighting the precarious balance between accountability and stability within organizations.

The Miami Dolphins’ future appears secure for McDaniel, pending their ongoing search for a new general manager, a role key to aligning the front office with coaching priorities.

Forthcoming Interviews and Potential Replacements

As franchises scramble to fill vacancies, several coaches are already on the radar for interviews. The Baltimore Ravens, seeking a coach who can invigorate their somewhat stagnant strategic approach, have expressed interest in candidates like Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and former Falcons coach Raheem Morris.

The Washington Commanders and Tennessee Titans have also drafted lists of potential coaching candidates that include offensive minds capable of revitalizing their struggling units. With an emphasis on innovative thinking and adaptability, the upcoming coaching hires are critical for transitioning teams into competitive contenders.

Summary of Coaching Movement

The ongoing developments illustrate the unpredictable nature of NFL coaching dynamics, where performances are weighed not only on wins and losses but also on the harmony of team culture and strategic vision. As this year’s coaching carousel spins, organizations are faced with the challenge of not just filling a position, but finding a leader who can drive success amidst the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.

The next few weeks are crucial as interviews ramp up, and teams must quickly turn their attention to defining new directions, pivotal for future success in the NFL.