The final whistle of the NFL's regular season this weekend will signal the start of a brutal period for several head coaches, with the dreaded 'Black Monday' looming large. While 14 teams turn their attention to the playoffs, the remaining franchises are contemplating major changes at the helm.
Coaches on the Chopping Block
According to reports, as many as four head coaches could be relieved of their duties once the campaign concludes. The atmosphere is particularly tense for those whose teams have failed to meet expectations.
Jonathan Gannon of the Arizona Cardinals appears almost certain to be dismissed. His team's disastrous run of 13 losses in their last 14 games, culminating in a season finale against the formidable Los Angeles Rams, has sealed his fate.
On the West Coast, the Las Vegas Raiders are also expected to seek a new leader. Despite an offseason overhaul and the acquisition of quarterback Geno Smith from Seattle, the team, now favourites for the No. 1 draft pick in 2026 after a loss to the New York Giants, has disappointed under Pete Carroll.
Pressure Mounts in the AFC East
In New York, Jets coach Aaron Glenn is under immense pressure. With minimal signs of progress, including a humiliating 42-10 home defeat to the New England Patriots, his position is precarious. The Jets hold a 3-13 record heading into a final game against the Buffalo Bills, where they are heavy underdogs. Glenn has publicly stated he believes he has the owners' backing for a rebuild, but a dismissal would end his first head coaching role after just one season.
The most immediate pressure rests on Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Todd Bowles. His fate hinges on a win-or-bust clash against the Carolina Panthers on Saturday. A victory secures a playoff berth and likely saves his job. A loss, following a collapse where the Bucs have lost seven of their last eight games—including a critical 17-20 defeat to the already-eliminated Miami Dolphins—will almost certainly see him fired.
Coaches Who Have Ridden Out the Storm
Not every coach who started the season under scrutiny will face the axe. Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins was in serious trouble after a 1-6 start, which saw general manager Chris Grier depart and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa benched. However, a marked improvement to a 7-9 record has stabilised his position for now, though Tagovailoa's future with the team remains in doubt.
Meanwhile, the report confirms that Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns and Zac Taylor of the Cincinnati Bengals are considered safe and will continue in their roles. As the regular season concludes, the focus for many will swiftly shift from the field to the front office, where the ruthless business of 'Black Monday' awaits.
