Taking a Dive Into the NFL Coaching Carousel
Well football fans, it’s that time of year again. The NFL coaching carousel is already in full swing, as both the Green Bay Packers and Arizona Cardinals are finalizing deals with potential new coaches. The Packers are going with Titans offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur, while the Cardinals will hire college football quarterback guru Kliff Kingsbury. Still, there are many positions left open around the league.
Cleveland Browns
After firing Hue Jackson following a 2-5-1 start to the season, the Browns showed a lot of improvement under interim head coach and defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. Williams is seen as one of many potential candidates for the job after his 5-3 finish to the season. Other candidates include former Colts and Lions coach Jim Caldwell, former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, Patriots defensive coordinator Brian Flores and interim Browns offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens. This may be the best available job in the NFL as the Browns have a roster full of young talent.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
After going 14-18 in his first two seasons, head coach Dirk Koetter was let go earlier this week. The candidates for the Tampa Bay job include Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, Vikings defensive coordinator George Edwards, former Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians, and Cowboys defensive play caller Kris Richard. Hiring a coach who can work well with former heisman trophy winner Jameis Winston should be Tampa Bay’s top priority.
Cincinnati Bengals
After a great start to the season, the Bengals failed to make the playoffs and accordingly fired longtime coach Marvin Lewis. Rumors have Cinncinati interested in Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy and Browns interim offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens. With plenty of offensive weapons, look for the Bengals to hire one of the top offensive coaches available.
New York Jets
After a 4-12 record in the 2018 season, head coach Todd Bowles was fired after his third season. As another team with a young quarterback, the Jets should and will look for an offensive coach to help Sam Darnold develop. Possible hires include former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, Baylor head coach Matt Rhule, Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy and former Dolphins head coach Adam Gase.
Denver Broncos
After two straight losing seasons, general manager John Elway is looking for a new head coach after the dismissal of coach Vance Joseph. Hall of Fame player and veteran Mike Munchak is being considered for the job along with Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
Miami Dolphins
Adam Gase went 10-6 and made the playoffs in his first season with the Dolphins, but went 13-19 since then, which led to his firing. Accomplished Cowboys defensive coach Kris Richard is being considered for the job, along with Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, Patriots defensive coordinator Brian Flores and longtime Dolphins special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi.
Jack Flanagan is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To reach him, email jrf5738@psu.edu.
