5 NFL Teams That May be in the Market for a Head Coach Soon

Carolina Panthers

Frank Reich took over for the Panthers this past offseason as the team looked to rebuild their program. Under new ownership, Carolina decided to bring Reich and his track record of being the “quarterback whisperer.” The team made a blockbuster move to No. 1 overall in the 2023 Draft to select their QB of the future, Bryce Young. However, the season hasn’t gone according to plan, Reich gave up play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown only to take them back after a few weeks of poor offense. He also quietly hinted that the owner pushed for them to draft Young despite his dissenting opinion. At 1-8 with no first-round pick in the upcoming draft, the Panthers are in a tough position moving forward.

Los Angeles Chargers

Brandon Staley has been the team’s head coach since 2021. During his tenure, the Chargers have an overall record of 23-20. While the defensive-minded coach has a record over .500, he’s received an abundance of criticism for their talented roster's shortcomings. After the slow start to this season, all eyes were on Staley. Now, sitting at 4–5, the second half of the season will be vital for not only the Chargers but also Staley. With Kellen Moore under him as an offensive coordinator, Tom Telesco may not have to go far to find his successor.

New England Patriots

The Patriots are having their worst season in over two decades, with a 2-8 record entering their Week 11 bye. And while it may be hard to envision a breakup between Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft, rumors have been steadily swirling that Belichick may soon be on his way out. Not only will the Patriots be seeking a new head coach, but they'll also be in need of a new general manager for the first time in 20+ years. 

Washington Commanders

Ron Rivera has been a name to monitor for years since taking the job in Washington. Rivera started his tenure with the Commanders in 2020, hoping to lead the team back to their winning ways. Ironically, since taking over the job, Rivera’s record as the Commanders coach is 28–33. With Washington looking at a 4-6 record, the second half of the season could ultimately be the deciding factor in Rivera’s future with the team.

Chicago Bears

The Bears hired Matt Eberflus in 2022, just two days after hiring general manager Ryan Poles. And while the regime came in together, it wouldn’t be a shock for the team to consider a change at head coach with zero to little progress since taking over. The team has tried to develop Justin Fields, but it has been difficult with the lack of an offensive-minded head coach. Nonetheless, with a 6-21 record in Chicago, Eberflus may be coaching for his job to finish out the season.

Carolina Panthers

Frank Reich took over for the Panthers this past offseason as the team looked to rebuild their program. Under new ownership, Carolina decided to bring Reich and his track record of being the “quarterback whisperer.” The team made a blockbuster move to No. 1 overall in the 2023 Draft to select their QB of the future, Bryce Young. However, the season hasn’t gone according to plan, Reich gave up play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown only to take them back after a few weeks of poor offense. He also quietly hinted that the owner pushed for them to draft Young despite his dissenting opinion. At 1-8 with no first-round pick in the upcoming draft, the Panthers are in a tough position moving forward.