Black Monday in 2025 was quieter than usual, especially when compared to past years.
As part of the NFL tradition, where coaches are fired the day after the season ends, there are six head coaching openings this year.
Three of those teams made changes mid-season: the New York Jets (Robert Saleh), New Orleans Saints (Dennis Allen), and Chicago Bears (Matt Eberflus). The other three openings happened after Week 18: the New England Patriots (Jerod Mayo), Jacksonville Jaguars (Doug Pederson), and Las Vegas Raiders (Antonio Pierce).
So, which of these six jobs is the most attractive? Each team has its pros and cons that candidates will need to consider. However, coaches can’t always be picky. If a team offers one of the 32 head coaching positions, it’s often wise to take it. Still, some teams are in better positions than others.
Here’s a ranking of the head coaching openings for the 2025 hiring season:
Jacksonville Jaguars
The good: The main draw here is rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who impressed in his first season. Having a franchise quarterback is a huge advantage for any new coach. Additionally, the Patriots have $131.58 million in cap space, more than any other team. With the No. 4 overall pick and minimal traded picks, the team has plenty of resources to make quick improvements.
The bad: Since Tom Brady left, things have not gone well for the team. Their drafts have not been strong, leaving many gaps in key positions like the offensive line and wide receiver. There is a lot of work to do to fix the roster and culture after three straight losing seasons.
Ideal candidate: Mike Vrabel. If a team needs a culture change, Vrabel is the perfect choice. He is a strong leader who exceeded expectations with the Tennessee Titans and has a connection to the Patriots as a former player.
Chicago Bears
The good: Like the Patriots, the Bears can sell their rookie quarterback to potential coaches. Caleb Williams didn’t live up to all the hype in his first year, but he showed enough potential. Chicago also has $81.5 million in cap space, which is the fifth most in the NFL.
The bad: The Bears had a very messy season, with many close losses and late-game mistakes. They haven’t had a winning season since 2018 and haven’t won a playoff game in 14 years. The new coach would also face uncertainty in the front office, as GM Ryan Poles could be on the hot seat.
Ideal candidate: Kliff Kingsbury. Although it didn’t work out with the Arizona Cardinals, Kingsbury’s recent work as offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders has been impressive. He also helped develop Williams at USC, so he’s familiar with the young quarterback.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The good: Jacksonville has a talented young quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, who is already paid. The team also has young players like receiver Brian Thomas Jr., running back Tank Bigsby, and pass-rushers Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. With over $40 million in cap space and a new stadium deal in the works, there’s a lot of potential here.
The bad: The decision to keep GM Trent Baalke, who has survived multiple coaching changes, could make it harder to attract candidates. The team has had several high draft picks over the years, but it’s still struggling to turn things around.
Ideal candidate: Liam Coen. Coen is an up-and-coming coach who has impressed as an assistant and offensive coordinator. He could bring the fresh perspective Jacksonville needs.
New York Jets
The good: Despite the struggles, the Jets have some strong young players, such as Breece Hall, Garrett Wilson, Will McDonald IV, and Quinnen Williams. Being in New York is also an added attraction for any coach.
The bad: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and owner Woody Johnson are big concerns. Rodgers, a four-time MVP, didn’t perform well last season, and his influence within the team has been an issue. The future of Rodgers is uncertain, which leaves the new coach in a tricky situation.
Ideal candidate: Aaron Glenn. Glenn, a former Pro Bowl cornerback with the Jets, has earned a reputation as a strong leader. He could bring the discipline and leadership the team needs after the chaos of the last few years.
Las Vegas Raiders
The good: The Raiders offer a blank slate for a new coach. Tight end Brock Bowers broke rookie records, and Maxx Crosby continues to play well on defense. With over $110 million in cap space, the Raiders have the resources to rebuild quickly.The bad: The Raiders have been very unstable in recent years, with 12 different head coaches since 2004. The team doesn’t have a clear franchise quarterback, and they don’t have a top draft pick either. The rebuilding process will take time, and there’s no guarantee the coach will get the time needed to turn things around.
Ideal candidate: Brian Flores. Despite mixed results in Miami, Flores did a great job making the Dolphins competitive. His no-nonsense approach and connections with the team’s new minority owner, Tom Brady, make him a good fit.
New Orleans Saints
The good: The NFC South has been one of the weakest divisions in recent years, which could give the Saints a chance to quickly return to the top. With veterans like Alvin Kamara, Demario Davis, Cam Jordan, and Tyrann Mathieu, the Saints could be contenders with a few changes.
The bad: The Saints are in “cap hell,” with a projected negative $81.9 million in cap space for 2025. To meet salary requirements, they may have to cut veterans. The quarterback situation with Derek Carr is also uncertain, making this job the least appealing.
Ideal candidate: Joe Brady. Brady was part of the Saints’ coaching success under Sean Payton and has since developed into one of the top coaching names. His work with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills this season shows he’s ready for a head coaching role.
