Current Status as NFL Regular Season Nears End
With only two days remaining in the regular season, here’s where things stand as we anticipate the NFL’s coaching changes for 2026. One noteworthy point is the somewhat limited pool of candidates, especially on the offensive front, which may lead some teams to remain unchanged.
Dolphins’ Search for New General Manager
The Dolphins are preparing to act swiftly after the final game in Foxboro this Sunday. Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman has joined as a consultant to assist in the search, reaching out to his network to explore potential GM candidates. There are several factors at play in this process.
Front Office Restructuring in Miami
Brandon Shore, the senior vice president of football and business administration, is set to partner with owner Stephen Ross and president Tom Garkfinkel during the search. This new structure will likely involve the head coach, the incoming GM, and Shore himself, similar to roles held by executives in other teams. Miami will focus on hiring a GM with strong player-evaluation skills, as many departments are expected to report to this individual.
Mike McDaniel’s Future Uncertain
Mike McDaniel’s job status is currently uncertain, with Ross holding the ultimate decision. While he has a favorable view of McDaniel, the final call will rest on input from his advisers. If McDaniel remains, a candidate with an established relationship with him, like Josh Williams from the 49ers, might have an advantage.
Cleveland Browns’ Unclear Direction
The situation in Cleveland also remains ambiguous, particularly after chief strategy officer Paul DePodesta returned to baseball. While the Browns are contemplating the addition of a similar position, GM Andrew Berry might be promoted to a president-of-football-operations role, though this seems unlikely at the moment.
Coaching Market Updates
The coaching market may see a shift in salary dynamics, especially due to the absence of a standout candidate this offseason. With Mike McDaniel’s performance stabilizing after a rocky start, discussions are heating up over potential trades involving coaches like Kevin Stefanski, raising questions about how teams will manage their assets effectively.
Upcoming Changes and Developments
The Titans’ front office restructuring points to GM Mike Borgonzi playing a crucial role in their search for a new head coach, with interest in both experienced and emerging candidates. Likewise, teams like the Giants and Colts face pivotal offseason decisions that could reshape their futures in the league, particularly considering the fluid nature of the coaching landscape this winter.
