Here’s a breakdown of the analysis provided, focusing on the evaluations of each coach and the reasoning behind them. I’ll summarize each coach’s assessment:
1. jerod Hafley (Miami dolphins)
* Record/experience: Mediocre college record (22-26 at Boston College). Nine years as an NFL assistant. Prosperous recent defensive coordinator stint with the Packers.
* Strengths: Leadership is highlighted as his likely defining characteristic.
* Weaknesses: College to pro transition can be difficult. His college head coaching record isn’t notable.
* Grade: C
2. Robert Saleh (Tennessee Titans)
* Record/Experience: 20-36 as head coach of the New York Jets. Previously a defensive coordinator and known for leadership.
* Strengths: Impressive presence, lauded leadership, strong defensive mind. Inherits a better QB situation than he had in New York.
* Weaknesses: Poor record as Jets head coach.Blame/credit for the Jets’ struggles.
* Hiring: Hired Brian Daboll, another previously failed NY coach.
* Grade: C+
**
what criteria were used too grade the 10 NFL head coaching hires in the 2026 season?
Table of Contents
- 1. what criteria were used too grade the 10 NFL head coaching hires in the 2026 season?
- 2. Grading the 10 NFL Head Coaching Hires: From John Harbaugh to Klint Kubiak
- 3. 1. Los Angeles Chargers – John Harbaugh (A+)
- 4. 2. Chicago bears – Shane Waldron (A-)
- 5. 3.Washington commanders – Dan Quinn (B+)
- 6. 4.New England Patriots – Jerod Mayo (B)
- 7. 5. Las Vegas Raiders – Antonio Pierce (B-)
- 8. 6. Tennessee Titans – Ben Johnson (B-)
- 9. 7. Atlanta Falcons – Raheem Morris (C+)
Grading the 10 NFL Head Coaching Hires: From John Harbaugh to Klint Kubiak
The 2026 NFL coaching carousel was a whirlwind, leaving fans and analysts alike debating the wisdom of each franchise’s choice.Landing a head coach is arguably the most crucial offseason move a team can make, impacting everything from player advancement to game-day strategy. let’s break down each of the ten hires, assigning a grade based on potential impact, fit, and overall risk. We’ll look at factors like offensive/defensive philosophy, prior experience, and the team’s existing needs.
1. Los Angeles Chargers – John Harbaugh (A+)
Bringing in John Harbaugh was a home run for the Chargers. After a prolonged search, they landed a proven winner with a Super Bowl ring and a consistent track record of success with the Baltimore Ravens. Harbaugh’s leadership and ability to build a strong culture are exactly what the Chargers need to finally unlock Justin Herbert’s full potential.
* Key Strengths: Proven winner, strong leadership, excellent motivator.
* Potential Concerns: Adapting to a different organizational structure.
* Impact on Chargers: Immediate contender status in the AFC.
2. Chicago bears – Shane Waldron (A-)
The Bears aggressively pursued and landed Shane Waldron, the former Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator. Waldron’s track record of maximizing quarterback play – notably with Geno Smith – makes him the ideal coach to develop Caleb Williams. His modern offensive scheme should revitalize the Bears’ attack.
* Key Strengths: Offensive innovator, quarterback development, play-calling ability.
* Potential Concerns: first-time head coach, building a defensive staff.
* Impact on Bears: Important offensive improvement, potential for rapid growth.
3.Washington commanders – Dan Quinn (B+)
Dan Quinn returns to a head coaching role after a successful stint as the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator. He’s known for his aggressive, ball-hawking defenses and ability to create a tough, physical identity. The commanders’ roster has talent, and Quinn’s defensive expertise should promptly translate to improvement.
* Key Strengths: Defensive mastermind, motivational leader, culture builder.
* Potential Concerns: Offensive consistency, adapting to being the leader.
* Impact on Commanders: Immediate defensive upgrade, competitive in the NFC East.
4.New England Patriots – Jerod Mayo (B)
The Patriots opted for internal promotion, handing the reins to Jerod Mayo. A former linebacker and long-time assistant coach, Mayo understands the Patriots’ culture and expectations.While a bit of a gamble given his lack of head coaching experience,he represents continuity and a fresh outlook.
* Key Strengths: Familiarity with the Patriots’ system, strong leadership qualities, player rapport.
* Potential Concerns: First-time head coach, offensive play-calling.
* Impact on Patriots: Potential for gradual improvement, maintaining Patriots’ identity.
5. Las Vegas Raiders – Antonio Pierce (B-)
Antonio Pierce did a commendable job as the interim head coach,stabilizing a chaotic situation. Promoting him full-time was a logical move, but questions remain about his long-term ceiling. He’s a strong communicator and motivator, but needs to demonstrate consistent strategic acumen.
* Key Strengths: Player motivator, strong communicator, familiarity with the Raiders’ roster.
* Potential Concerns: Limited coaching experience, offensive/defensive scheme development.
* Impact on Raiders: Continued stability,potential for moderate improvement.
6. Tennessee Titans – Ben Johnson (B-)
The Titans landed Ben Johnson after a lengthy pursuit, hoping he can replicate the offensive success he had with the Detroit Lions. Johnson’s innovative play-calling and ability to tailor his scheme to his personnel are appealing, but he faces a tougher challenge in Tennessee with a less established quarterback.
* Key Strengths: Offensive play-caller, scheme versatility, quarterback development.
* Potential concerns: Adapting to a new organization, building a consistent offense.
* Impact on Titans: Potential offensive improvement,but success hinges on quarterback play.
7. Atlanta Falcons – Raheem Morris (C+)
Raheem Morris returns to a head coaching role after several years as a defensive coordinator. He’s a respected coach with a proven track record of developing defensive players. However, the Falcons’ success
