As the NFL regular season draws to a close, the league braces for “Black Monday,” a day notorious for the firing of several head coaches. This year, several names are on the hot seat, and significant changes are expected across various teams.
Ron Rivera of the Washington Commanders is almost certain to be let go. Since his appointment in 2020, Rivera has struggled to achieve a winning record, a trend that dates back to his time with the Panthers in 2017. With new ownership at Washington, a complete overhaul seems imminent.
The Atlanta Falcons’ Arthur Smith is another coach facing a precarious situation. His questionable strategy of underutilizing key players like Kyle Pitts, Drake London, and Bijan Robinson, combined with the team’s quarterback chaos, has led to underwhelming performances. The decision to pass on Lamar Jackson in favor of this muddled quarterback situation only adds to the critique against Smith.
Robert Saleh of the New York Jets might also receive his marching orders. Despite a strong defensive performance, Saleh’s mishandling of the quarterback position and failure to secure a winning record could cost him his job. However, changes might be limited to the offensive staff, particularly if Aaron Rodgers has a say.
Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is under scrutiny despite a potential playoff spot. His defensive expertise hasn’t translated into expected results, with the team’s defense ranking poorly this season. A shift towards a younger, offensive-minded head coach seems to be the need of the hour for the Bucs.
Lastly, the New England Patriots’ Bill Belichick appears to be nearing the end of his tenure. Post-Tom Brady, Belichick’s team-building efforts have been less than successful, marked by costly signings and a faltering quarterback situation. While his legacy might soften the exit, it’s becoming clear that both Belichick and the Patriots need a fresh start.
As Black Monday approaches, these coaches face uncertain futures, signaling a potential shift in the landscape of NFL coaching staffs for the upcoming season.
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