Buffalo or Baltimore? Nfl Coaches and Execs Vote on Best Head Coach Openings – the Athletic

The NFL Coaching Carousel: Evaluating Top Vacancies

In the ongoing NFL coaching carousel, there are currently ten head-coaching vacancies across the league. The Athletic has surveyed a panel of 10 coaches and high-ranking team executives to rank these openings based on their attractiveness. This analysis provides insights into why certain teams are seen as top options for premium candidates.

Buffalo Bills: The Top Choice

The Buffalo Bills emerged as the top head-coaching vacancy in this poll, earning 96 points and seven first-place votes. Former head coach Sean McDermott’s firing was surprising given his track record of leading the Bills to the playoffs in eight out of nine seasons, including five AFC East titles.

Quarterback Josh Allen, who turns 30 in May, is a key factor in making Buffalo an attractive option. “Not even close,” said one former head coach when ranking the Bills as the top vacancy. The Bills also received two second-place votes and a third-place vote, indicating broad consensus among the panel.

While offensive coordinator Joe Brady and former Bills OC Brian Daboll might have inside connections due to familiarity with the organization, the team’s roster needs significant work. Additionally, firing McDermott signals that Buffalo ownership has high expectations for Allen in his prime, creating a sense of urgency for any new coach.

Baltimore Ravens: Stability and Quarterback

The Baltimore Ravens ranked second with 88 points, including two first-place votes. The team is seeking their fourth head coach in franchise history after Harbaugh’s 18-year run. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP who turned 29 this month, provides stability and potential for the future.

“Baltimore is the model of stability,” said one team executive when ranking the Ravens highly.

The organization has shown consistent quality in roster construction and salary cap management, creating an environment where head coaches can focus on building a winning culture. Despite Jackson’s game not being for everyone, his presence ensures that any new coach must be on the same page with him.

New York Giants: John Harbaugh’s Impact

The New York Giants received 81 points and one first-place vote, highlighting their appeal as a target despite already securing premium candidate John Harbaugh. With Jaxson Dart at quarterback, Malik Nabers on the receiving end, and an improving offensive line, the roster has attractive pieces.

However, the Giants’ history of meddling ownership remains a concern for coaching candidates. Despite Harbaugh’s impressive resume, any head coach would need to navigate potential internal tensions to achieve stability. The opportunity to work with a franchise quarterback in Allen is seen as a significant advantage over other openings.

Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski’s Potential

The Atlanta Falcons secured 63 points and one second-place vote, reflecting the strong candidacy of head coach Kevin Stefanski. Stefanski’s two-time Coach of the Year accolades with the Cleveland Browns are notable, especially considering the abrupt nature of his transition to a new setup.

While the organization has undergone significant changes under owner Arthur Blank, including hiring Matt Ryan as president of football, the coaching position is seen as a strong fit for Stefanski. The Falcons have a challenging roster situation with young players and need to refine their core to compete effectively in the future.

The NFL Coaching Market: A Deep Dive

This evaluation provides insights into why certain head-coaching vacancies are considered top options, considering factors such as ownership stability, quarterback presence, and organizational culture. The NFL coaching carousel is an exciting period of change, with premium candidates carefully weighing their options before making a move.

For more in-depth analysis on the NFL’s coaching landscape, including interviews with coaches and team executives, stay tuned to The Athletic.