The 2023 NFL season had been a nightmare for quarterbacks, as multiple starters sustained season-ending injuries during the regular season. Besides QBs, the season also brought huge blows for the head coaches. Eight franchises changed their head coaches before and after the regular season. Even elite HCs like Bill Belichick couldn’t save his job.
However, six franchises have already filled their HC spots. The New England Patriots, the Las Vegas Raiders, the Los Angeles Chargers, the Tennessee Titans, the Carolina Panthers, and the Atlanta Falcons are done and dusted with their new HCs. Now, only the Washington Commanders and the Seattle Seahawks are left, still searching for their next leader.
Commanders to interview coaches from Ravens, Lions
The Commanders are intensifying their hunt for a new head coach, with their sights set on key coaching figures from the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions. Amid a thorough search that commenced in early January, they have zeroed in on potential candidates to fill the position.
Among the contenders, the Ravens’ defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald as well as assistant head coach and defensive line coach Anthony Weaver have piqued the Commanders’ interest. Besides these two, the team is eyeing the Lions’ defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson for the vacant coaching roles, as per ESPN.
Ben Johnson’s prominence in the Commanders’ coaching considerations has surged in recent weeks, with many suggesting him as the frontrunner. Nevertheless, sources close to the selection process refuted claims of Johnson’s inevitability.
The Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, Dan Quinn, has also been linked with the Commanders. Quinn is set for a second round of interviews with the franchise. The Houston Texans’ offensive coordinator, Bobby Slowik, has also recently undergone his initial in-person interview. Following the dismissal of Ron Rivera after a disappointing 4–13 season, the Commanders are determined to make a strategic coaching appointment.
Seahawks eyeing more interviews to fill vacant HC seat
Like the Commanders, the Seahawks are actively pursuing candidates to fill their vacant head coaching position. But their keen focus remains on coaches from teams participating in Sunday’s games. One notable figure on their radar is the Ravens Mike Macdonald. Nevertheless, they have to face a waiting game, as they can only interview him once the Ravens’ season concludes.
In adherence to NFL rules, the Seahawks have already conducted an interview with the Lions Ben Johnson. They are now free to speak with him again this week, irrespective of the Lions’ playoff outcome against the San Francisco 49ers.
The Seahawks’ search extends beyond Johnson, with interviews also conducted for coaches such as Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, and Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith. They have also been linked to former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, who has garnered interest from other teams in this coaching carousel.
The Seahawks are in search of an HC after bidding adieu to their HC Pete Carroll. The ex-coach will remain with the team as an advisor.
