The 2026 NFL offseason has produced 10 head coaching changes, tying the record set in 1978, 1997, 2006, and 2022 for the most head coach turnover in a single offseason, as franchises across the league sought fresh leadership to reverse disappointing performances.
The Arizona Cardinals made headlines by hiring Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur as their new head coach. LaFleur, who has developed a reputation for innovative offensive schemes during his time with the Rams, inherits a Cardinals team in rebuilding mode with significant cap space and high draft picks to work with.
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to finalize their hire after Super Bowl LX, with Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak the reported frontrunner. The delay is due to NFL rules preventing teams from finalizing hires with coaches whose teams are still in the playoffs. Kubiak has impressed ownership with his creative play-calling and player development skills.
Other notable hires include John Harbaugh taking over the New York Giants, ending his long tenure with Baltimore, and Jeff Hafley agreeing to become the Miami Dolphins head coach after successful stints as a defensive coordinator. The Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Baltimore Ravens also made significant changes, hiring Todd Monken, Mike McCarthy, and Jesse Minter respectively.
The Buffalo Bills promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach following their former coachs departure, betting on internal continuity rather than an external search. The Tennessee Titans brought in Robert Saleh, while Kevin Stefanski quickly found a new opportunity with the Atlanta Falcons.
This widespread coaching turnover reflects the high-pressure, results-oriented nature of the modern NFL, where anything short of playoff success often leads to staff overhauls. The 2026 season will reveal whether these new voices can transform their respective franchises fortunes.