Head Coaching Hires
New York Giants: John Harbaugh
Securing John Harbaugh is one of the best moves the New York Giants could have made. This is arguably their strongest coaching hire since bringing in Tom Coughlin back in 2004. The Giants are hoping for a similar resurgence under Harbaugh’s leadership.
Harbaugh brings with him a proven track record, boasting a 61.4% career win percentage and a Super Bowl ring. While his playoff success has been limited in recent years, the Giants themselves have struggled to reach the postseason consistently. After failed coaching stints under Ben McAdoo, Joe Judge, and Brian Daboll, Harbaugh’s appointment signals a fresh start.
Despite the challenges ahead, Harbaugh’s experience and leadership could elevate this team. With a solid core of young players, the Giants could see an immediate boost. Harbaugh’s tenure in Baltimore featured just three losing seasons, and while it might take time to replicate that success in New York, this hire gives the Giants a legitimate chance to return to prominence. This is the best coaching move the franchise has made in years.
Grade: A+
Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski
Kevin Stefanski has made a name for himself as an NFL Coach of the Year twice, making his availability an exciting opportunity for the Atlanta Falcons. This is a hire that checks many boxes for the Falcons, offering the possibility of immediate improvement.
Stefanski’s history with the Cleveland Browns, where he navigated a turbulent quarterback situation, will be invaluable as he steps into a similar situation in Atlanta. The Falcons have a talented roster and play in a relatively weak division, giving Stefanski a solid foundation to build on.
This hire feels like a perfect fit. Stefanski’s proven ability to develop talent and win games in challenging circumstances should help the Falcons make a significant jump in the standings.
Grade: A
Miami Dolphins: Jeff Hafley
The Dolphins faced several challenges when hiring a new head coach, and landing Jeff Hafley is a respectable move considering the circumstances. Hafley, who gained attention after successful seasons as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator, now takes on the difficult task of rebuilding Miami’s roster.
With quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s future uncertain and a large salary cap hit looming, Hafley will have his work cut out for him. However, his experience as a college head coach at Boston College could provide valuable insight into managing a rebuilding phase in the NFL.
Grade: B
Tennessee Titans: Robert Saleh
Robert Saleh is a strong hire for the Tennessee Titans, a team that has struggled in recent seasons. Though his tenure with the New York Jets resulted in a 20-36 record, the Jets are notorious for their organizational difficulties, which have hampered many coaches.
After a successful stint as defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Saleh’s reputation has been restored, and his leadership will be an asset to a Titans team that has endured back-to-back 3-14 seasons. His defensive acumen should provide an immediate boost to the team’s overall performance. A major question remains regarding the offensive side of the ball, especially with the development of the 2025 NFL Draft’s top pick, Cam Ward.
Grade: B+
Coordinator Hires
Detroit Lions Offensive Coordinator: Drew Petzing
Drew Petzing’s hiring as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator is a bit underwhelming considering the talent available in the coaching market. Despite his three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, where his offenses ranked 19th, 11th, and 19th in total yards, there is hope for improvement in Detroit.
Petzing’s time with the Cardinals was marred by suboptimal quarterback play, which impacted his overall performance. However, with a more talented roster in Detroit and a system similar to former coordinator Ben Johnson’s, there’s potential for Petzing to find success in his new role.
Grade: B-
Los Angeles Chargers Offensive Coordinator: Mike McDaniel
The Los Angeles Chargers have made a major move by hiring Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator. With an impressive track record and head coaching interest, McDaniel now has the chance to work with one of the NFL’s brightest quarterbacks, Justin Herbert.
Assuming the Chargers’ offensive line improves with better health next season, McDaniel’s innovative play-calling could propel the team’s offense into the top five. With so much talent on offense, the Chargers are primed to become a major threat in 2025.
Grade: A
