Coaching Carousel: Predicting the Next Wave of NFL Head Coaches
As the NFL season comes to a close, several teams are scrambling to find their next head coach. With top candidates like Ben Johnson and Mike Vrabel in high demand, who will land these coveted positions?
New England Patriots: A Familiar Face
Mike Vrabel’s potential return to the Patriots makes perfect sense. As a multi-Super Bowl winning linebacker, he knows the organization and owner Robert Kraft well. With a potential franchise quarterback in Drake Maye, this job becomes even more attractive. Vrabel’s success with the Titans, including a near-Super Bowl appearance with Ryan Tannehill, demonstrates his coaching prowess. It’s likely the Patriots wouldn’t part ways with Jerod Mayo unless they’re confident in landing Vrabel.
New York Jets: A Messy Situation
The Jets’ coaching search is a mystery, with Aaron Rodgers’ departure and no GM or QB in place. Until they find a new GM, predicting a head coach is difficult. The recent interview with Rex Ryan only adds to the uncertainty. It’s hard to imagine a top candidate being drawn to this job, given the chaos they’d inherit.
Jacksonville Jaguars: A Hidden Gem
Ben Johnson could find himself at the helm of the Jaguars, a more attractive job than many think. Owner Shahid Khan’s deep pockets and willingness to spend big could lure Johnson. The question is, how much faith does he have in franchise QB Trevor Lawrence? With a young weapon like Brian Thomas at WR and a weak AFC South division, the Jaguars offer an appealing opportunity.
Chicago Bears: A Plan B
The Bears may strike out on Vrabel and Johnson, leaving them to consider Brian Flores. As a defensive coordinator, Flores has earned a second chance after helping the Vikings win 14 games. His exotic pass rush packages and emphasis on accountability could bring much-needed discipline to Chicago.
New Orleans Saints: A Familiar Face Returns
Aaron Glenn, who finished runner-up to Dennis Allen in 2022, could find himself back in the Saints organization. With deep ties to the team and President Mickey Loomis’s admiration, Glenn’s stock is rising again after his defense dismantled the Vikings. He’ll need to make a strong offensive coordinator hire, but his culture-building skills make him an attractive choice.
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