TRENDING UPDATE: Las Vegas Raiders hire Antonio Pierce; in NFL coaching alterations.

In 2023, eight NFL teams made the decision to replace their head coaches either during or following the regular season. Six of these positions have been filled, most notably with Raheem Morris taking over as head coach of the Falcons, Dave Canales joining the Panthers, and Jim Harbaugh making his comeback to the NFL as the Chargers’ new coach.

On November 1, the Raiders fired general manager Dave Ziegler and coach Josh McDaniels, starting the coaching carousel. The Panthers then let Frank Reich go on November 27, which was his second firing of the season. The Chargers fired general manager Tom Telesco and coach Brandon Staley on December 15, and the Falcons said goodbye to Arthur Smith following their season finale. Coach Ron Rivera was fired by the Commanders on Tuesday, and Mike Vrabel was let go by the Titans the same day.

Pete Carroll was fired by the Seahawks as head coach following the season, but he was kept on as an advisor. Not long after, the Patriots and head coach Bill Belichick decided to split ways, ending a twenty-four-year partnership that produced six Super Bowl victories. With no delay, Jerod Mayo was elevated to the position of New England’s new coach. This study offers a thorough analysis of the most recent NFL head-coach movement, including details on available jobs, pros and cons for each post, and possible interview candidates. Updates on the positions for offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator are also provided.

Following a 26-14 loss at Detroit on “Monday Night Football,” the Raiders swiftly made changes by firing coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler. This decision came on the heels of two consecutive defeats where the team’s offense struggled. With this loss, the Raiders’ record dropped to 3-5.

In response, the Raiders appointed linebackers coach Pierce as their interim head coach and promoted an assistant general manager to the interim GM role. Pierce’s leadership style garnered support from Raiders players, with All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams expressing a strong commitment, stating he would “run through a wall for that man.” Maxx Crosby, a three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher, also endorsed Pierce. During Pierce’s tenure as interim coach, the Raiders achieved a 5-4 record, including a notable Christmas Day victory against the Chiefs. Under Pierce’s guidance, the Raiders’ defense excelled, leading the league in fewest points allowed per game (16.0), most defensive touchdowns (4), and receiving the fewest penalties (31).

Reflecting on the season finale, Maxx Crosby expressed admiration, stating, “It’s legendary.” He emphasized the significance of having the right culture and praised A.P. (presumably referring to an individual associated with the Raiders) for embracing the team’s history. Crosby highlighted the consistent presence of numerous legends, attributing it to the respect they hold for A.P. This, in turn, motivates players to showcase their abilities on the field, aspiring to reach the legendary status represented by those who came before them.

The decision to remove the interim tags from coaches Kelly and Pierce seemed inevitable to many observers. Their participation in Las Vegas’ MLK Day Parade served as a public indication that they were likely to be hired full-time.