By the time the playoffs begin, there may be up to ten head coaching positions available in the NFL, with Black Monday just a few days away.
A few past head coaches have made a compelling argument to be given another chance at the position, even if a number of rising assistants, such as defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero of the Carolina Panthers or offensive coordinator Ben Johnson of the Detroit Lions, will probably have their fair share of suitors.
These four HC applicants might be deserving of another opportunity.
With Black Monday just days away, the NFL could have as many as 10 head coaches when the playoffs begin.While several future assistants like Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson or Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero likely have their share of suitors, there are a handful of former head coaches who have made strong calls for another contract. crack at work.Here are four HC candidates who might be worth a second chance:
1. Jim Schwartz, Defensive Coordinator,Cleveland BrownsSchwartz announced he wants to be a head coach again and after what he did. The Browns’ 2023 defense would be wise to take him back. Cleveland allows the fewest yards per game (266.6), 10th in passing yards per game (165.9) and 10th in passing yards (100.6), fourth in interceptions (17) and seventh in sacks (46).The Browns also have the lowest completion percentage (56.4), passer rating (72.7) and third-down conversion percentage (29.4) and have allowed the fewest receptions (286) and first downs (231) and second downs. fewest receiving yards (2,973) and passing yards (5.9). Schwartz clearly has a sharp defensive mind and could be at the top of the roster for teams like the Atlanta Falcons or Los Angeles Chargers.
2. Dan Quinn, Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinatorQuinn has done a fantastic job with the Cowboys defense, especially turning around cornerback DaRon Bland, who leads the league in interceptions (eight) and sacks (five). Defensive Player of the Year. He is also responsible for Dallas having the fourth-lowest passing percentage (59.9), fifth-lowest passing yards allowed (3,055) and sixth-lowest passing percentage (81.1).Quinn made two playoff appearances and one Super Bowl in over four years as head coach of the Falcons, and his 43-42 record is a bit misleading in telling the whole story of what a HC he was. Quinn is rumored to be the favorite to replace Mike McCarthy in Dallas if the team misses the postseason, but now Quinn may just get a job elsewhere.
3. Brian Flores, Minnesota Vikings Defensive CoordinatorFlores had a solid three-year season as Dolphins HC from 2019-2021. That, along with how much he’s turned the Vikings defense around this season, should be enough to earn him some head coaching interviews this offseason.
Under Flores, Minnesota jumped from 31st to 16th in total defense and from 30th to 12th in scoring this season. The Vikings defense is allowing 330 yards and 20.8 points per game this year – both 388 yards and 25.1 points per game in 2022. an uncharacteristic 14 interceptions. It could be argued that Spagnuolo’s defense is actually what led the Chiefs to eight straight and a ninth straight playoff appearance.
Kansas City is second in total defense and third in scoring defense, allowing 285.5 yards and 17.3 points per game. Under Spagnuolo, the Chiefs have the second-most sacks (54) but give up the fewest passing yards per game (172.9), the sixth-most passing yards (19) and the eighth-lowest passer rating (84.4). . Spanuolo’s defensive ability could suit Los Angeles (Chargers), Las Vegas or Washington..
