The 2026 NFL offseason saw a record-tying ten head coaching changes, a number that matches the highs set in 1978, 1997, 2006, and 2022, according to ESPN Research. These shifts included high-profile hires such as Klint Kubiak to the Raiders, Mike McCarthy to the Steelers, and John Harbaugh to the Giants. Other new arrivals included Todd Monken in Cleveland, Jesse Minter in Baltimore, Joe Brady in Buffalo, Jeff Hafley in Miami, Robert Saleh in Tennessee, Mike LaFleur in Arizona, and Kevin Stefanski in Atlanta. As the season progresses, the performance of these new leaders varies significantly.
The Buffalo Bills, led by Joe Brady, have been the standout success of the group. With a 6-1 record, the team leads the league in points per game and ranks near the top in total yardage. Brady’s partnership with quarterback Josh Allen has been productive, particularly after the acquisition of wide receiver DJ Moore. However, the pass defense remains a significant weakness, forcing the team to rely on young and less experienced players in a unit that ranks last in yards allowed per game.
In Pittsburgh, Mike McCarthy has maintained the Steelers' physical identity, resulting in a 6-2 record and a league-best defense against the run in recent weeks. Despite a strong running game, the passing attack has shown inconsistency, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers and receiver DK Metcalf struggling to find rhythm. The team has found success at home, averaging significantly more points in Pittsburgh than on the road.
The New York Giants under John Harbaugh have improved their defensive structure and special teams, matching their previous season's win total early in the campaign. However, injuries to key players, including edge rusher Brian Burns and quarterback Jaxson Dart, have limited the offense. Despite these setbacks, the Giants became the first team since 2016 to become the favorite to win the NFC East during the season.
Todd Monken’s Cleveland Browns have exceeded expectations, surpassing their 2024 win total and securing five game-winning drives. The team has developed a resilient identity, though the offense remains inconsistent due to injuries to quarterback Deshaun Watson and an underperforming offensive line. Monken acknowledges the challenges of finding consistency while building a new roster.
The Las Vegas Raiders, under Klint Kubiak, have found success in their passing game with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who ranks near the top in passing yards and touchdowns. This strength has allowed the team to rank well in third-down conversions. Conversely, the run game and defense against the run have been poor, with the team allowing high rushing yards per game and struggling to stop interior runs.
Kevin Stefanski’s Atlanta Falcons have shown offensive potential since quarterback Michael Penix Jr. returned from injury, leading the league in points per game in that span. Stefanski has shifted Penix to a more traditional under-center role. Despite beating the 49ers, the Falcons lost to the Buccaneers in a game defined by a strong run by the opponent, highlighting ongoing issues with stopping the run and managing turnovers.
Jesse Minter’s Baltimore Ravens started the season strongly but have faced a slump following injuries to quarterback Lamar Jackson. The team has struggled to finish games, holding double-digit leads in three losses. The Ravens are currently finalizing a trade for quarterback Jacoby Brissett to address the passing attack, which has been held to fewer than 14 points in three straight games.
Mike LaFleur’s Arizona Cardinals have shown flashes of offensive brilliance but have been plagued by injuries and roster changes. The team traded wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to Houston after the experiment did not pan out. While the Cardinals have performed well as underdogs, their overall record of 3-5 leaves them with minimal playoff chances as the season progresses.
