With the Buffalo Bills firing of Sean McDermott, ten NFL teams have made coaching changes since the end of the season (Tennessee & the New York Giants fired their coaches midseason), three have already been filled; John Harbaugh to the New York Giant, Kevin Stefanski to the Atlanta Falcons & Jeff Hafley to the Miami Dolphins.

I’m offering my predictions of what coaches end up where. I’m listing the openings in descending order of what I believe are the best openings.

Buffalo Bills

It’s always somewhat surprising when a playoff team parts ways with their head coach, but I can’t say I’m shocked the Bills fired McDermott. The Bills have hit a ceiling under McDermott, perennial contenders that can never get over the hump.

This season they had their best chance yet, with no Kansas City or Baltimore in their path, yet they’re out after the divisional round. It feels, to me and many others, that Buffalo was squandering the prime years of one of the all time great quarterbacks, Josh Allen. Something had to change.

The aforementioned Allen is the reason why I have this as the number one opening. Every and any prospective head coach has to be tripping over themselves to line up an interview. They would inherit an immediate Super Bowl contender. I also have to wonder if Harbaugh & Stefanski are having second thoughts after accepting jobs before this news dropped.

This is a tough opening to predict, partly because it’s so recent and no rumors are circulating, yet, but also because I’m not sure what the Bills will be looking for.

In many ways, this reminds me of when Tampa Bay moved on from Tony Dungy to Jon Gruden. Like the Bills, Tampa had had success under Dungy but couldn’t get over the hump.

When thinking in those terms, it would seem that Buffalo would want a coach with an established track record. The problem is there aren’t many out there.

Harbaugh and Stefanski have taken other jobs, Mike Tomlin seems like he will take at least a year off. Pete Carroll doesn’t make sense. Mike McCarthy could be an option, but I’m lukewarm on that.

There is one possibility with a long track record of success, and I’m just speculating here because it would be enormous and petty at the same time. Bill Belichick in Buffalo would send shockwaves through the NFL.

The other thing to consider is Josh Allen’s preference. Could Buffalo promote from within and make offensive coordinator Joe Brady their next head coach? Allen did win an MVP under Brady’s leadership. Brian Daboll is another name to consider, Daboll played a big role in developing Allen into the superstar he is now. Daboll was a colossal disappointment as the Giants head coach, though.

I have no insight here, I’m just making a prediction. I’m making this prediction solely because I want the stories this would generate.

My Pick:

Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore was my preseason pick to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl and I wasn’t alone. The Ravens fell well short, completely missing the playoffs and there seemed to be a disconnect between Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson.

Still, the Baltimore job is right there with Buffalo in desirability. They have a superstar quarterback in his prime and a roster built to contend immediately.

Unlike Buffalo, we’ve had time to hear rumors regarding the Ravens job. Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter is a hot name, but I question it due to his closeness with the Harbaugh family.

Other names I’ve heard are Seattle offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, though they might have to wait awhile on him, Buffalo offensive coordinator Joe Brady, but Buffalo might just promote him, San Francisco defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel.

Ultimately, I think this will come down to how well they vibe with Jackson. My prediction is just a gut feeling.

My Pick:

Tennessee Titans

The Titans got a jump start on their coaching search when they fire Brian Callahan back in October. We’ve been able to hear rumors regarding this job for months.

The Titans have a lot of holes in their roster, but they appear to have their franchise quarterback in Cam Ward. This won’t be a quick turnaround, though Tennessee does have plenty of cap space to add talent, but there is a foundation for improvement.

My understanding is that Tennessee is down to three finalists, San Francisco defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, Kansas City offensive coordinator, Matt Nagy & Green Bay defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.

Because of Titans’ General Manager Mike Borgonzi’s ties to Kansas City, I’ve long thought Nagy was the front runner here. If he learnt from his mistakes as the head coach of the Chicago Bears, this could be a decent hire.

My Pick:

Cleveland Browns

I think the Browns job could be more attractive than many think. They have a ferocious defense and a stellar 2025 rookie class. They also have a plethora of draft capital for this year and next.

The drawbacks with the Cleveland job are twofold. First is the quarterback issue. Is Shedeur Sanders the answer? With a weak quarterback draft, Sanders probably earned himself another season to answer that question. Of course, there is also Deshaun Watson and that albatross contract.

The second drawback is stability. Cleveland has been a picture of instability for years. Kevin Stefanski won Coach of the Year twice with the Browns, but lost his job due in large part to the gigantic swing and miss on Watson, and I’m not entirely sure how much input he had in that decision.

Any prospective coach has to weigh the pros and cons with the Browns. With that strong defense and average quarterback play, Cleveland could contend in a weak AFC North. However, if Sanders or Watson don’t provide that, Cleveland could be an embarrassment, again.

Some names I’m hearing are former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, former Baltimore offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jacksonville offensive coordinator Grant Udinski & Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.

My gut tells me Udinski could be the front runner if he agrees to keep defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and Schwartz agrees to stay as DC. I’m not sure about that, so I think they promote from within and bring in Scheelhaase as OC.

My Pick:

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are the epitome of stability and job security for head coaches. They are embarking on just their fourth head coaching search and their last 3 head coaches resigned or retired, they were never fired. As far as having a longer than usual runway for success, there is no better job than Pittsburgh.

With that being said, this is not an easy fix. The Pittsburgh Steelers remind me of the New Orleans Saints at the end of the Sean Payton/ Drew Brees era.

The Steelers had a long stretch of great success, and they’ve stayed competitive since the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger, but they haven’t been true contenders in a decade.

They’ve eschewed a full tear down and rebuild, kicking the can down the road as they keep posting winning records. The bill, however, is coming due.

The Steelers aren’t in the salary cap trouble the Saints were in when Payton walked away, but they do have quite a bit of aging, expensive veterans, especially on defense, and a lot of needs.

First, and foremost, they need a quarterback. I would be shocked if Aaron Rodgers returns without Mike Tomlin involved and they have no viable path to land a quarterback in the draft. There are a couple veterans they could possibly trade for, but I don’t see them going that route.

The Steelers job is going to be tough, but at least the new head coach can have confidence in knowing they’ll be given a long leash to see it through.

The Steelers history says they’re likely going with a young, under the radar guy. Nobody knew who Tomlin was when he landed the job, nor Bill Cowher before him. They’ve also leaned towards defensive minded head coaches, though that could change this time.

I’m not making a prediction on who the Steelers will hire because, honestly, I doubt I’ve heard of him, yet. If, and this is a big if, they do go with a name coach there are two names I’d keep an eye on.

Mike McCarthy is from Pittsburgh and he’s had a successful run with two franchises. Hiring an offensive minded coach would be beneficial in developing whoever is under center for the Steelers.

The other name is Brian Flores. Flores had a cup of coffee in Pittsburgh as their defensive coordinator and he seems to exude the Steeler mindset.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders are the opposite of Pittsburgh as far as job security goes. They’ve been a hot mess for the entirety of the 21st century thus far. No organization has had more head coaches since 2000 than the Raiders, who have had four more than the next closest franchise (Cleveland).

Las Vegas is also notorious for giving their coaches a short leash. They’ve fired several coaches mid season & have also had multiple one year and done coaches.

All that aside, the Raiders have some attraction. They own the number one pick in this year’s draft and they’ll almost certainly take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. They have young superstars in Brock Bowers & Ashton Jeanty and they have a legend in the front office in Tom Brady.

Brady had a hand in hiring Pete Carroll, but I think it was more of a fall back option after they failed to lure Ben Johnson or Liam Coen to Vegas. I think the Raiders have more to offer this year and Brady will use his many contacts throughout the NFL to get his man.

I think Seattle offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak could be a strong consideration here, as could former Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott.

I’ve heard one rumor that makes a lot of sense to me because of a previous connection to Brady. That would be Minnesota defensive coordinator Brian Flores with former Giants head coach Brian Daboll as his offensive coordinator.

My Pick:

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals have seen a lot of coaching turnover over the years as well, though not quite as bad as the Raiders or Browns. What makes this job the least desirable, in my opinion, is they have a quarterback problem,

It seems Arizona has finally come to the realization that they cannot win with Kyler Murray. The problem is they’re probably stuck with him. No other team will be willing to take on that contract and Arizona can’t afford to take the dead cap hit by releasing him. To compound matters, this is a weak quarterback draft and the Cardinals aren’t in a position to get a viable franchise option.

Arizona is not without some attractive pieces, but they also play in the toughest division in the NFL. I think it would be smart, on the Cardinals part, to poach the coaching staff of one of their division rivals. That’s why I think Seattle offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, San Francisco defensive coordinator Robert Saleh & offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak & Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur & defensive coordinator Chris Shula are strong candidates.

Another name to consider is recently fired Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott.

Ultimately, I think the Cardinals may be the last team to name a new head coach because their guy could be coaching in the Super Bowl.

My Pick:

Grading the Hires

New York Giants

The Giants, more than anything, needed a culture change and they moved quickly to hire former Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh after he was fired by the Ravens. Harbaugh brings a winning culture to the Big Apple and the Giants have a lot to build around including quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receiver Malik Nabers, running back Cam Skattebo & edge rusher Abdul Carter.

Great hire by the Giants. My Grade- A

Atlanta Falcons

I love this fit of coach and team. The Falcons have been one of the more underachieving teams over the last several years, while Stefanski has won Coach of the Year twice with the Browns, who have been a hot mess seemingly forever.

Stefanski can build a winner with offensive stars like Bijan Robinson, Drake London & Kyle Pitts (provided they extend him) and an ascending defensive unit, even if he can’t develop Michael Penix Jr into a true franchise quarterback.

The Falcons might already be my favorites to win the NFC South in 2026. My Grade- A

Miami Dolphins

I think the Dolphins made the decision to make a coaching change when John Harbaugh became available, but they never got serious consideration.

Jeff Hafley was one of the hotter names amongst prospective first time head coaches, so it’s a decent fall back option for Miami.

More than anything I think Miami needs a culture change, it’s fair to wonder if Hafley brings that. My Grade- B

AFC

Previous: #1, won at Pittsburgh, 30-6

The Texans defense showed why they’re my pick to come out of the AFC. Defense travels. This team can win on the road and go all the way if CJ Stroud and the offense can limit the mistakes.

Next: at New England

Previous: #3, BYE

Broncos welcome Buffalo to Mile High after a week off. Denver is getting no respect, despite being the number one seed. They have a defense almost as good as Houston, though, and I think that’ll carry them to the next round.

Next: vs Buffalo

Previous: #5, won at Jacksonville, 27-24

Buffalo won a nail biter on the road in the wildcard round, and now they go back on the road to take on the number one seed. With Josh Allen, you can never count the Bills out, but the Broncos have a fierce defense.

Next: at Denver

Previous: #4, won vs LA Chargers, 16-3

New England dominated the Chargers despite an off day for Drake Maye and the offense. Houston is a different animal entirely.

Next: vs Houston

Previous: #2, lost vs Buffalo, 27-24

Jaguars had a shot, but fell short versus Buffalo in the Wildcard round.

Next: Free Agency Frenzy

Previous: #6, lost at New England, 16-3

The Chargers offense didn’t show up for the playoffs.

Next: Finding a new Offensive Coordinator

Previous: #7, lost vs Houston, 30-6

Ugly end to the Mike Tomlin era and possibly to Aaron Rodgers’ career.

Next: Finding a new Head Coach

NFC

Previous: #2, BYE

Seahawks sat back and relaxed, now they welcome an even more depleted San Francisco than the last time they beat them.

Next: vs San Francisco

Previous: #3, won at Carolina, 34-31

Rams survived another sloppy performance against Carolina to earn a trip to frigid Chicago.

Next: at Chicago

Previous: #4, won vs Green Bay, 31-27

Bears pulled off a comeback for the ages to oust their bitter rivals.

Next: vs LA Rams

Previous: #5, won at Philadelphia, 23-19

The Niners keep winning despite all the devastating injuries.

Next: at Seattle

Previous: #1, lost vs San Francisco, 23-19

The offensive issues that have plagued Philly all season ultimately did them in.

Next: Finding a new Offensive Coordinator

Previous: #6, lost at Chicago, 31-27

One of the all-time playoff collapses has Green Bay mulling their future.

Next: Deciding Matt Lafleur’s Fate

Previous: #7, lost vs LA RAMS, 34-31

Panthers acquitted themselves well in the first postseason appearance of the Bryce Young era.

Next: Free Agency Frenzy

Divisional Round Picks

Regular Season: 170-102 / 134-138

Playoffs: 4-2 / 5-1

The Buffalo Bills pulled off a road win against a very good Jacksonville team & Josh Allen is probably the best player left in the playoffs, but going to Denver to play the well rested Denver Broncos and that ferocious defense is a tall task.

The Bills have been the sexy pick in the AFC, but not for me. I’ll take the home dogs to win outright. DEN (+1.5)

Broncos 23-20

The San Francisco 49ers keep winning despite all the injuries, so it’s tough to pick against them. The Seattle Seahawks, however, are the number one seed for a reason. Their defense is elite and they shut down San Fran just two weeks ago.

I’ll pick the Niners to cover in a loss. SF (+7.5)

Seahawks 17-13

Drake Maye was a little shaky in his postseason debut against LA. The New England Patriots cannot afford that against the Houston Texans and that dominant defense.

The game is in New England, and CJ Stroud and the Texans offense have their own issues, but I think the Houston defense will give the Patriots fits. HOU (+3)

Texans 19-13

This game should provide plenty of fireworks because both the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams have high powered offenses and suspect defenses.

On paper, this looks like a mismatch. The Rams have been elite for most of the season, but they have scuffled down the stretch. The Bears are the team you can never count out and it will be frigid at Soldier Field.

I’ll take the home dogs to cover, but LA will probably win. CHI (+3.5)

Rams 35-34

My Evolving Super Bowl Pick

Seattle Seahawks over Houston Texans

I’m doing these rankings a bit differently during the playoffs. I’m going to rank the AFC & NFC teams separately. I’ll do a final, full ranking after the Super Bowl.

AFC

5th Seed

The Texans are my pick to come out of the AFC. There’s no team hotter, they’ve won 9 in a row after a sluggish start to the season. They boast the most ferocious defense in the NFL, and if CJ Stroud & the offense can provide a little bit and avoid mistakes, Houston will be a tough out. I know, as a wildcard, they’ll have to win at least two road games to get to the dance, but I trust this defense to get it done.

First Round: at Pittsburgh

3rd Seed

The Jaguars are almost as hot as Houston, winners of 8 straight entering the playoffs. They’re more balanced than Houston, their offense is humming and the defense, while not as stingy as Houston, is opportunistic. They, too, might have to win two road games to get to the Super Bowl, but at least they start the trip with a home game.

First Round: vs Buffalo

1st Seed

I have a lot of reservations about Bo Nix and the Broncos offense, but there is no doubt that Denver has a championship defense. They’ve got home field advantage throughout the playoffs, but we saw Jacksonville come into Denver and manhandle the Broncos just before Christmas. I’m not ready to pick them to go all the way.

First Round: BYE

2nd Seed

The Patriots have had a remarkable season & Mike Vrabel could get Coach of the Year, and Drake Maye is in the running for MVP, but I just don’t see New England emerging from the AFC to make the Super Bowl, I don’t even see them making it to Championship Sunday. This is a young, inexperienced team that benefited greatly from a soft schedule, I just don’t think they’re ready, yet.

First Round: vs LA Chargers

6th Seed

The Bills are the sexy pick to come out of the AFC because they’re familiar & because of Josh Allen, but I’ve been cooler on Buffalo than most all season. I do think they have a better chance than New England, the only reason I have them ranked lower is because I’m less confident they’ll make it out of the first round. Even if they do, I don’t think they could handle defenses like Denver & Houston on the road.

First Round: at Jacksonville

7th Seed

I like the Chargers, but they have a track record of flaming out in the playoffs and they have a beat up offensive line and a beat up quarterback. They’re capable of stunning the Patriots on the road, but that’s as far as they’ll go. There is no way they’re winning two road playoff games, let alone the three it would take to make the Super Bowl.

First Round: at New England

4th Seed

The Steelers earned their playoff berth and you can never count out an Aaron Rodgers led team, but I’d be totally shocked if they made it past Houston, even if it is at home. If they somehow do, they’d almost certainly have to go on the road in the divisional round and that would be the end of the road.

First Round: vs Houston

NFC

3rd Seed

And you thought it was controversial that I ranked Houston first in the AFC? The Eagles are my pick to make the Super Bowl from the NFC. Why? Because of their defense and their championship pedigree. They are the only team that I think is capable of going on the road and beating anyone, and they’re not going to lose at home.

First Round: vs San Francisco

1st Seed

The Seahawks have the defense to make a Super Bowl run and they have home field advantage. That’s huge for them, because I definitely wouldn’t trust Sam Darnold to win a road playoff games. I think only Philly & the Rams are capable of winning in Seattle, but it won’t be easy.

First Round: BYE

5th Seed

The Rams are certainly capable of making a run to the Super Bowl & a month ago they would have been my number one team, but they’ve looked sloppy down the stretch. They should certainly make it out of the first round, but I have to wonder how they’d fare on the road in Philly or Chicago.

First Round: at Carolina

2nd Seed

Not how I wanted to see the Bears enter the playoffs, on a 2 game skid. Green Bay won’t be easy, but it’s in Chicago & the Bears just beat them there 3 weeks ago. They’re also guaranteed a home game in the divisional round if they win, so the path to Championship Sunday is doable.

First Round: vs Green Bay

6th Seed

The Niners went from a shot at the number one seed to the sixth seed and a trip to Philly. Ouch. The Niners offense can hang with anyone, but their defense can’t stop anyone. Even if they somehow get past the first round, I don’t see them getting past either of their division rivals.

First Round: at Philadelphia

7th Seed

The bad news? The Packers enter the playoffs on a four game losing streak. The good news? Aside from Micah Parsons, they should be at full strength. No Parsons, though, is a huge deal. They do get Chicago in the first round, a team they’ve dominated over the years, but this isn’t the same old Bears.

First Round: at Chicago

4th Seed

The Panthers made the playoffs and they should be proud, even if they backed in. They did beat the Rams, in Carolina, at the end of November, but I’d be shocked if they did it again. Still, they should be proud to have made it this far.

First Round: vs LA Rams

Wildcard Round

The Carolina Panthers beat the Los Angeles Rams in Carolina at the end of November, which might suggest this isn’t as big of a mismatch as it would appear.

The Rams haven’t been playing their best football the last several weeks, which might also suggest that the Panthers have a chance.

Carolina, however, quite literally backed into the playoffs. They are almost entirely devoid of any playoff experience on this roster. The Rams, meanwhile, are loaded with it.

I’m picking the Rams to win, but I’ll take the upstart Panthers & the points. CAR (+10.5)

Rams 31-23

The Green Bay Packers & Chicago Bears meet for a third time after splitting their two regular season games. Each team won on their own home field in two wildly competitive games.

The Packers rested their starters in the regular season finale, while the Bears played theirs in a lackluster effort against the Lions.

Green Bay has to be as confident as any seventh seed can be. They’ve had the Bears number for years, and it took an insane comeback, and some major luck, for Chicago to emerge victorious in their last matchup.

These Bears are different, though. Ben Johnson & Caleb Williams know the stakes of this one. The Bears can completely change the landscape of the NFC North with a victory.

They will. CHI (-1.5)

Bears 24-21

No Kansas City Chiefs, no Baltimore Ravens has a lot of people thinking this is the year for the Buffalo Bills to get over the hump in the AFC. I am not one of those.

First off, the Jacksonville Jaguars have been one of the hottest teams in the NFL over the last month & it could be argued that they are the best team in the AFC.

Josh Allen may be Superman, but Trevor Lawrence is playing just as good, right now.

I think the Jaguars defense is the difference. JAX (+1.5)

Jaguars 31-28

That was a costly loss in the season finale for the San Francisco 49ers. Not only did they the number one seed, they fell all the way to sixth. Instead of going to Carolina, they now have to travel to Philly.

The Philadelphia Eagles are the defending champions, but are somehow flying under the radar. Sure, their offense has been disjointed all season, but this is still a stellar defense with plenty of championship level talent on offense.

At home, I don’t see the Eagles getting beat, but San Fran will put up a fight. SF (+4.5)

Eagles 20-17

This matchup is one of the harder ones for me to forecast. The New England Patriots have been a great story this season, and Drake Maye deserves some of the MVP buzz, but they’ve really benefited from a soft schedule & I’m not sure they’re ready for the bright lights of playoff football.

The Los Angeles Chargers, on the other hand, are a team that never seems to be able to get over the hump and out of the first round. The Chargers have the talent, but their offensive line is banged up and so is Justin Herbert.

I’ll take the Patriots at home. NE (-3.5)

Patriots 27-20

The Pittsburgh Steelers earned this berth in the playoffs, and I’d never discount Aaron Rodgers in the playoffs, especially at home. But,

The Houston Texans are maybe the hottest team in football and they certainly have the best defense. The Texans are the scariest matchup for anyone in the AFC.

I just don’t see the Steelers pulling this off. HOU (-3.5)

Texans 20-13

My Evolving Super Bowl Pick

Philadelphia Eagles over Houston Texans

Last Week: 9-7 / 5-11

Season: 163-93 / 127-129

Carolina (+2.5) @ Tampa Bay

CAR 20-17

Seattle @ San Francisco (+1.5)

SF 31-28

Detroit @ Chicago (-2.5)

CHI 27-20

Indianapolis @ Houston (-10)

HOU 24-7

Dallas (-4.5) @ NY Giants

DAL 31-17

Cleveland (+7.5) @ Cincinnati

CIN 21-16

New Orleans (+3) @ Atlanta

ATL 28-27

Green Bay (+6.5) @ Minnesota

GB 24-21

Tennessee @ Jacksonville (-12.5)

JAX 31-13

Arizona @ LA Rams (-7.5)

Rams 31-17

LA Chargers (+12.5) @ Denver

DEN 20-17

Kansas City @ Las Vegas (+5.5)

KC 20-17

Miami (+11.5) @ New England

NE 28-21

Washington (+7) @ Philadelphia

PHI 20-16

NY Jets @ Buffalo (-7)

BUF 31-13

Baltimore (-3.5) @ Pittsburgh

BAL 21-17

Week 17 Recap

Playoffs Round 1

Trash Pandas vs Shamrocks N Shenanigans

I have the flu, so I’m not going with a deep recap here. This was a blowout, I never stood a chance.

Week 18 Preview

Third Place Game

I’ve got the flu, so I’m not able to do my fancy power rankings post. You’ll just have to make do with the basic rankings.

1. Seahawks (13-3) -x
2. 49ers (12-4) -x
3. Jaguars (12-4) -x
4. Patriots (13-3) -y
5. Broncos (13-3) -y
6. Bears (11-5) -y
7. Texans (11-5) -x
8. Eagles (11-5) -y
9. Rams (11-5) -x
10. Bills (11-5) -x
11. Chargers (11-5) -x
12. Ravens (8-8)
13. Packers (9-6-1) -x
14. Steelers (9-7)
15. Panthers (8-8)
16. Buccaneers (7-9)
17. Vikings (8-8) -e
18. Lions (8-8) -e
19. Cowboys (7-8-1) -e
20. Falcons (7-9) -e
21. Colts (8-8) -e
22. Bengals (6-10) -e
23. Dolphins (7-9) -e
24. Saints (6-10) -e
25. Chiefs (6-10) -e
26. Commanders (4-12) -e
27. Browns (4-12) -e
28. Titans (3-13) -e
29. Giants (3-13) -e
30. Cardinals (3-13) -e
31. Jets (3-13) -e
32. Raiders (2-14) -e

x- clinched playoff berth

y- clinched division

e- eliminated

Two teams, the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants have already begun their search for their next head coach, and in two weeks more will join them.

In this piece, I’ll look at those teams could be making changes after the season ends.

Those I’m Certain Will be Fired

Kevin Stefanski- Cleveland Browns

The Browns troubles stem mostly from the disastrous decision to acquire Deshaun Watson. How much input Stefanski had in that decision is unknown. What is known is that he will pay the price for it.

I wrote, earlier this season, that I thought the Browns would be foolish to part ways with the two time Coach of the Year, but my tune has changed.

The Browns are a mess offensively and that falls on Stefanski. I think it is obvious that Stefanski never wanted Shedeur Sanders as his quarterback. It took an injury to Dillon Gabriel for Stefanski to turn to Sanders and then it became obvious to all that Stefanski had been mistaken.

Sanders has had his rookie struggles, but he’s shown that he has a much higher ceiling as an NFL quarterback than Gabriel could ever hope to have. Stefanski’s stubborness in sticking with Gabriel as long as he did is what I think, ultimately, costs him his job.

Stefanski will be a head coach again, perhaps even as early as next season, and he will certainly be in demand as an offensive coordinator. The one question future teams should ask is how much input he had in choosing Watson over Baker Mayfield and whether he can develop a quarterback, since that question was never answered in Cleveland.

Pete Carroll– Las Vegas Raiders

This season hasn’t unfolded the way the Raiders had hoped, and I certainly didn’t think they’d actually be worse with Carroll and with Geno Smith at quarterback than they were in 2024, but here we are.

The Raiders are in for a full rebuild and the fact that Pete Carroll is 74 years old begs the question if he has the juice to see it through.

When the Raiders hired Carroll it felt like the kind of move that was meant to change the culture of the team. The Raiders didn’t need to be torn down to the studs, they just needed to be fixed up. Carroll seemed perfect for the job, but then it just imploded.

It is no secret that Raiders minority owner, Tom Brady, coveted Ben Johnson, who ultimately chose the Chicago Bears. Pete Carroll was a fall back guy, when the job didn’t look as enormous as it now does.

It feels like an ignominious end for the coaching career of Pete Carroll, who has had great success in the NFL. To be a one and done with the Raiders seems almost unfair, but I just can’t imagine Vegas entrusting this rebuild to a coach that will be 75 early next season.

I think Tom Brady will be deeply involved in picking the next head coach that will be tasked with developing the new franchise quarterback they are sure to draft in April.

Those I Think Will be Fired

Mike McDaniel– Miami Dolphins

Early in the season I thought McDaniel was on the hottest seat, but Tennessee pulled the trigger first. I still thought McDaniel would be fired by Thanksgiving, then something funny happened.

The Dolphins started winning, and they got themselves back into playoff contention. McDaniel was saving his job before our very eyes. Two weeks ago, I’d have said he was safe, but then things turned again.

A couple ugly losses, elimination from the postseason and the benching of Tua Tagovailoa I now think that McDaniel is likely fired after the season.

This is because the Dolphins have a Tua problem. They cannot afford to release him and it’s highly unlikely that any team would trade for him, so Tua will be on this roster next season. What’s more is that there is a good chance he’ll be the starting quarterback, again.

Miami is not n a great position to draft a quarterback this year. Maybe they can bring in a veteran to compete, but the chances are likely that Tua would win any competition for the starting role against any quarterback currently on the roster or any they might be able to acquire.

This is purely speculative, on my part, but I don’t see a world in which both Tua Tagovailoa & Mike McDaniel are with the Miami Dolphins next season and finances tells me it’s easier to move on from McDaniel than from Tua.

Jonathan Gannon- Arizona Cardinals

Gannon had done an admirable job with the Cardinals. This was the least talented team in the NFL when he took over, and their franchise quarterback missed most of that first season recovering from a torn ACL, but Gannon had them playing hard.

There were signs of improvement last season and there was hope they’d take another step this season (I picked them to finish second to the Rams in the NFC West). After a 2-0 start, things unraveled fast.

In an ugly loss, at home, to the lowly Tennessee Titans, I think Gannon’s fate was sealed. When he physically accosted running back Emari Demercado on the sideline following the latter’s inexcusable brain melt, I think Gannon’s job was lost.

The Cardinals are similar to the Dolphins in that they’re financially tied to a quarterback that they can’t win with and they cannot afford to outright release.

The difference is that Arizona is in a position to draft a replacement for Kyler Murray, which then begs the question is Gannon the coach you want helping to make that choice and is he the one you want overseeing the rookie’s development. Remember, Gannon is a defensive coach.

My gut feeling tells me no. I think Arizona is in for a full reboot at the head coach and quarterback positions.

Raheem Morris– Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons have won a couple games down the stretch and they look likely to finish within a game of the division winner, but this doesn’t mask the fact that they’ve been eliminated since early December and they’ve been the most underachieving team in the NFL the past two seasons.

The fact is that they have too much talent on the offensive side of the ball to be playing meaningless games in December. Last season, that could be partially blamed on an atrocious defense and the collapse of Kirk Cousins. Those excuses don’t exist this year.

The defense added talent in the draft and they’ve been a much improved unit. Michael Penix Jr’s injury inserted Cousins back into the starting lineup and they’ve been winning games with him.

The Falcons have just been too inconsistent during Morris’ tenure. One week they look like legitimate contenders, the next they look like a team destined for the number one pick.

A month ago, I was certain that Atlanta would be searching for a new head coach, today I’m considerably less certain. My gut, however, tells me that the Falcons are still likely to fire Raheem Morris.

I Wouldn’t be Surprised

Zac Taylor– Cincinnati Bengals

I thought that Taylor might get a pass this season because of Joe Burrow’s injury, but the last month of the season has made me re-think that.

The Bengals were predictably horrible in Burrow’s absence, but when he returned on Thanksgiving, Cincinnati still had a shot in a very bad AFC North.

They whipped Baltimore and then were on the verge of upsetting the Bills in Buffalo before a couple freaky interceptions doomed them. Still, the AFC North was open for the taking.

Then, the offense no showed in a rematch with Baltimore and we got a glimpse of sad Joe Burrow.

Ultimately, I think Taylor’s fate is in Joe Burrow’s hands. If the franchise quarterback wants Taylor back, he’ll be back. If Burrow is unhappy, then Taylor will be gone.

I won’t be surprised by either outcome, but I will say that if he returns as the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, Zac Taylor will start the 2026 season atop the hot seat rankings.

Brian Schottenheimer– Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys have been a disappointment this year, but an argument can be made that none of it is Schottenheimer’s fault. The offense, Schottenheimer’s forte, has been among the best in the NFL. Dallas’ troubles are on defense.

I think defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus (pictured behind Schottenheimer, above), will be the one to take the fall for this season. The Cowboys defense showed signs of improvement after the trade deadline acquisitions of Quinnen Williams & Logan Wilson, only to regress in ‘gotta have it’ games versus Detroit & the LA Chargers.

The Cowboys real problems lie in the front office, but Jerry Jones will never take that blame on himself. I think Schottenheimer is, and should be, safe this year, but Jones has made impulsive moves at head coach before and nothing he does will truly shock me.

Aaron Glenn– New York Jets

Despite the dumpster fire in New York, it feels like firing Aaron Glenn after one season would be unfair. The Jets, however, have a long history of making rash and unwise decisions.

After a couple mid-season trades, the Jets have a plethora of draft capital at their disposal. They should get another shot at landing their quarterback of the future and filling in other holes.

Just my opinion, but Aaron Glenn deserves another season in New York. I wouldn’t be surprised if, however, if the Jets move on.

Todd Bowles- Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Bowles wasn’t on my radar about being on the hot seat a month ago, but the collapse in Tampa has been so sudden and shocking that I have to believe some major changes could be coming.

Tampa still has a shot at winning the NFC South, as of this writing, and if they sneak into the playoffs, Bowles is most likely safe. If they miss the playoffs, however, I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets the axe.

I’d be Shocked, but There is a Chance

John Harbaugh– Baltimore Ravens

Let me be clear, there is zero chance John Harbaugh gets fired. The Ravens, however, have had such a disappointing season that changes have to be coming.

Harbaugh could decide to step down or he could transition into a front office role. I highly doubt that there is any chance he isn’t on the Baltimore sideline next season, but there is a sliver of doubt there.

Shane Steichen– Indianapolis Colts

At one point, I had Steichen pacing the field in the race for Coach of the Year, so I would be shocked if he got fired after the season.

The Colts collapse has been so sudden and complete, however, that it feels like some head is going to roll.

The trade deadline acquisition of Sauce Gardner cost Indianapolis two first round draft picks and has really hamstrung the Colts moving forward. Since the trade, Indy has only won one game. They’ve lost Daniel Jones to an Achilles injury, putting a major question mark at the most vital position heading into 2026.

Going all in on half a season of good Daniel Jones play was questionable at the time, it looks worse now. If anyone is going to pay the price for the Colts collapse, it should probably be general manager Chris Ballard, but there is a non-zero chance Steichen doesn’t survive either.

Sean McDermott– Buffalo Bills

There will be no Patrick Mahomes & the Kansas City Chiefs nor Lamar Jackson & the Baltimore Ravens, likely, in their path this year. The road to the Super Bowl is wide open for the Bills, and many expect them to take it all the way into February.

But, what if they don’t?

If Buffalo falls short of the Super Bowl, or worse falls short of the AFC Championship game, how safe is McDermott?

If Buffalo squanders their best chance in the McDermott era, the questions will get louder. Are they wasting Josh Allen’s prime with a middling head coach?

Last Week: 10-6 / 8-8

Season: 154-86 / 122-118

Dallas Cowboys (-7) @ Washington Commanders

Neither team has anything to play for, but Washington might be down to their third QB.

Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings (+6)

Lions need to win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Vikings are down to their third QB.

Denver Broncos (-13.5) @ Kansas City Chiefs

Chiefs are playing out the string with their third string QB.

Houston Texans (+2.5) @ Los Angeles Chargers

Heavyweight battle in LA. Texans clinch a playoff berth with a win.

Baltimore Ravens @ Green Bay Packers (-2.5)

Packers can clinch a playoff spot with a win, Ravens are eliminated with a loss.

Chicago Bears (+3) @ San Francisco 49ers

One team will keep their hopes alive for the #1 seed.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5) @ Cleveland Browns

Steelers can clinch the division with a victory.

New England Patriots @ New York Jets (+13.5)

Total mismatch on paper, but I’m not laying two TDs.

New Orleans Saints (-2.5) @ Tennessee Titans

Both teams have been bottom dwellers most of the season, but have shown signs of improvement. I think the Saints are further ahead in their rebuild.

Jacksonville Jaguars (-6.5) @ Indianapolis Colts

Jaguars continue their march to a division title and possible #1 seed and complete the Colts collapse.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Miami Dolphins (+5.5)

Buccaneers need this one more.

Seattle Seahawks @ Carolina Panthers (+7.5)

Even at home I don’t see Carolina upsetting Seattle.

Arizona Cardinals (+7) @ Cincinnati Bengals

I expect an entertaining, high scoring affair between two eliminated teams.

New York Giants @ Las Vegas Raiders (-1.5)

Who scheduled this for the penultimate week of the season?

Philadelphia Eagles @ Buffalo Bills (-1.5)

Buffalo needs a victory more.

Los Angeles Rams (-8.5) @ Atlanta Falcons

I expect the Rams to roll.

Week 16 Recap

Playoffs Round 1

Trash Pandas vs Achilles Heels

Vengeance is mine!

A loss to the Heels three weeks ago kept me from going undefeated in our division, and getting an extra first round pick next year. The Heels also bounced me from the playoffs two years ago. My track record against them hasn’t been good. As I said in the preview, they’ve been, quite literally, my Achilles heel. To advance by eliminating them is sweet.

It wasn’t an easy victory, it came down to Sunday night and one of the two players I had going went down with an injury and scored a big, fat zero.

I started Justin Herbert over Trevor Lawrence due to matchup and that is why I won. Herbert only outscored Lawrence by 8 points, and won the QB battle 48-32, but he also affected another position.

Because I was playing Herbert, and because Rome Odunze was out with an injury, I decided to put Herbert’s Chargers teammate, Quentin Johnston into my lineup and that is what ultimately led me to victory. Johnston put up 22 points and helped me win the WR battle by 7 points.

Jahmyr Gibbs didn’t have a great game, but he got a late TD and was able to muster 14 very important points. Unfortunately, TreVeyon Henderson went down with an injury without scoring a single point. I lost the RB battle by 4 points.

When Henderson went down I was still trailing by 8 points, fortunately I had Patriots kicker, Andy Borregales going and he came through with 18 points.

Brock Bowers didn’t have a huge game, but he did score a very valuable TD and won the TE matchup, 10-3.

Besides the Henderson injury, the other negatives this week were Marvin Harrison Jr mustering just a single point in his return to the lineup & my injury replacement and hunch start at flex, Audric Estime, managing just two points.

Week 17 Preview

Playoffs Round 2

Trash Pandas vs Shamrocks N Shenanigans

Previous Matchup

Our previous encounter was a wild one. Jonathan Taylor had a monster game in Germany and I thought I was done, but then Gibbs & Henderson went off. For Henderson, it was his breakthrough game.

The Shamrocks were rolling before that loss and they stumbled a bit down the stretch. They were able to hold onto a playoff spot and last week they were very good.

They’re a formidable opponent and I’ll need to have some guys really outperform their projections.

My keys to the week:

1. Trevor Lawrence- I’m going back to Lawrence because of matchup. Lawrence has been on a hot streak for the last month and I need that to continue.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs– Henderson’s status is uncertain as of this writing, so I need Gibbs to have one of his big games.
3. Dalton Schultz- Raiders are shutting down Brock Bowers for the season. I understand it, but it sucks for my fantasy team. Bowers had an excellent matchup and I cannot expect Schultz to hit Bowers’ ceiling, but I need him to produce like a normal TE1.
4. Marvin Harrison Jr- I cannot afford to have Harrison have another dud this week. Fortunately, he has a great matchup & he needs to produce.