2025 NFL Coaching and GM Search: Who's in the Running for Open Positions?
2025-01-07
Author: Wai
As the 2024 NFL regular season wraps up, the spotlight shifts to the offseason for 18 of the NFL's 32 teams who are actively looking for new leadership at the head coach and general manager positions. Some teams, particularly those that struggled through the season, have wasted no time in pursuing changes. We're here to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the coaching and GM vacancies, detailing each team’s search and the candidates in the mix.
Jacksonville Jaguars - Head Coach
Just hours after the 2024 season ended, the Jacksonville Jaguars parted ways with head coach Doug Pederson. Under Pederson, who took charge in 2022, the Jaguars showed promise but struggled in recent seasons, culminating in a disappointing 4-13 finish this year. While Pederson’s trajectory included a playoff berth and moments of brilliance, the team's performance dramatically declined, leading to this significant shift.
**Interview Candidates for the Jaguars:** - Aaron Glenn, Lions Defensive Coordinator - Ben Johnson, Lions Offensive Coordinator - Liam Coen, Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator - Kellen Moore, Eagles Offensive Coordinator - Todd Monken, Ravens Offensive Coordinator - Patrick Graham, Raiders Defensive Coordinator - Robert Saleh, Former Jets Head Coach - Joe Brady, Bills Offensive Coordinator
Chicago Bears - Head Coach
Following a disaster on Thanksgiving against the Lions, the Chicago Bears dismissed Matt Eberflus. Interim head coach Thomas Brown had some initial success, but the Bears continue to face major challenges, especially offensively. The upcoming hire will aim to develop young talent, including promising quarterback Caleb Williams.
**Interview Candidates for the Bears:** - Drew Petzing, Cardinals Offensive Coordinator - Brian Flores, Vikings Defensive Coordinator - Arthur Smith, Steelers Offensive Coordinator - Ben Johnson, Lions Offensive Coordinator - Mike McCarthy, Cowboys Head Coach
New England Patriots - Head Coach
After a tumultuous season that concluded with a win still costing them the top draft pick, the Patriots fired Jerod Mayo after just one season as head coach. Mayo was seen as the chosen successor to Bill Belichick, but the team struggled throughout the year.
**Candidates for the Patriots:** - Pep Hamilton, NFL Assistant Coach - Byron Leftwich, Former Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator - Mike Vrabel, Former Titans Head Coach
New Orleans Saints - Head Coach
Dennis Allen's dismissal after a devastating losing streak put Darren Rizzi in the position of interim head coach, yet the Saints are realizing the need for significant changes as they enter rebuilding mode.
**Candidates for the Saints:** - Aaron Glenn, Lions Defensive Coordinator - Joe Brady, Bills Offensive Coordinator - Darren Rizzi, Interim Head Coach
New York Jets - Head Coach
Following the firing of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, the Jets are working quickly with a dual search team that includes former scouts to reshape their leadership.
**Interview Candidates:** - Mike Vrabel, Former Titans Head Coach - Ron Rivera, Former Panthers Head Coach - Rex Ryan, Former Jets Head Coach - Brian Flores, Vikings Defensive Coordinator
Las Vegas Raiders - Head Coach
After a rocky season, the Raiders have fired Antonio Pierce following a disappointing 4-13 record, despite some brief moments of success during his tenure.
General Manager Searches
The New York Jets are not only looking for a new head coach but also a general manager, with their search already underway for potential candidates.
**Candidates for Jets GM Position:** - Louis Riddick, ESPN Analyst - Jon Robinson, Former Titans General Manager - Mike Borgonzi, Chiefs Assistant GM
With many teams undergoing massive changes, the 2025 NFL offseason promises to be an exciting time filled with significant moves. As these organizations look to rebuild and reshape their futures, fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see who lands these coveted positions.