A wave of new head coaching hires has already reshaped the NFL landscape heading into the 2026 season. These teams have chosen direction, leadership, and philosophy in hopes of accelerating success or restoring stability. Each hire reflects a calculated bet on culture, scheme, and long-term vision. Here are the teams with a new head coach heading into the next season.
Kevin Stefanski (Atlanta Falcons)
Kevin Stefanski arrives with a reputation as an organized, quarterback-friendly offensive coach who emphasizes structure and efficiency. His offenses are built on timing, balance, and maximizing personnel strengths rather than forcing a rigid system. For Atlanta, Stefanski brings credibility, stability, and a clear identity after years of inconsistency. His presence should accelerate offensive development and raise the team’s overall professionalism.
John Harbaugh (New York Giants)
John Harbaugh brings instant gravitas and a championship résumé to a franchise that has struggled for direction. Known for leadership, accountability, and special teams excellence, Harbaugh sets a culture that demands consistency and toughness. He has repeatedly shown an ability to adapt to changing rosters and league trends. For the Giants, this hire signals a shift toward long-term stability and organizational alignment.
Jeff Hafley (Miami Dolphins)
Jeff Hafley enters with a defensive background and a strong reputation for player development. He is known for emphasizing speed, discipline, and communication on defense while fostering strong relationships in the locker room. For Miami, Hafley represents a pivot toward balance and accountability after offensive volatility. His challenge will be pairing his defensive philosophy with the right offensive leadership.
Robert Saleh (Tennessee Titans)
Robert Saleh brings an intense, energy-driven leadership style rooted in defensive dominance. His teams historically play fast, physical, and emotionally connected, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. For Tennessee, Saleh fits the franchise’s traditional identity of toughness and resilience. His ability to rebuild culture and buy-in will be central to the Titans’ next phase.
Jesse Minter (Baltimore Ravens)
Jesse Minter steps into the role as a defensive tactician known for adaptability and game-specific planning. His schemes emphasize disguise, versatility, and situational awareness, which aligns well with Baltimore’s defensive legacy. Minter offers continuity while also modernizing concepts to match today’s offenses. The Ravens are betting on his football IQ and ability to lead without disrupting their established culture.
Mike McCarthy (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Mike McCarthy brings experience, credibility, and a Super Bowl–winning résumé to one of the league’s most tradition-rich franchises. Known for quarterback development and offensive structure, McCarthy offers a stabilizing presence during a transitional period. For Pittsburgh, this hire signals a desire to remain competitive while modernizing offensive philosophy. His challenge will be aligning his system with the Steelers’ physical identity and high internal standards.
Conclusion
Now, the focus shifts from hiring to implementation as these new coaches begin putting their stamp on their teams. Early buy-in, clear communication, and measurable progress will be critical in year one. While results may vary, these hires will play a major role in defining how the 2026 season unfolds across the league.
The post NFL: Teams with new head coaches heading into the 2026 season appeared first on The Big Lead.
