The NFL's 2026 hiring cycle has concluded with eight head coaching vacancies filled, revealing a significant league-wide preference for established leadership. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, six of the eight new hires possess prior head coaching experience at either the professional or collegiate level.
Of the eight positions filled, only two candidates are entering their new roles without any prior head coaching experience. These include Jesse Minter, who was named head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, and Joe Brady, who was promoted to head coach of the Buffalo Bills. Minter joins Baltimore after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, while Brady steps up after two seasons as the Bills' offensive coordinator.
The remaining six vacancies were filled by coaches with proven track records. This group includes Todd Monken (Cleveland Browns) and Jeff Hafley (Miami Dolphins), both of whom have head coaching experience at the collegiate level. The cycle also saw several veteran NFL head coaches find new homes, including John Harbaugh (New York Giants), Kevin Stefanski (Atlanta Falcons), Robert Saleh (Tennessee Titans), and Mike McCarthy (Pittsburgh Steelers).
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting