The demand for innovative and impactful leadership in the NFL has reached new heights, with franchises constantly seeking the next great head coach to lead their teams to glory. This story highlights the top 10 head coaching candidates for the upcoming offseason, analyzing their impressive track records, innovative strategies, and leadership qualities that have positioned them as the most sought-after names in the league. From offensive masterminds like Ben Johnson and Kellen Moore to defensive stalwarts like Brian Flores and Aaron Glenn, this comprehensive ranking delves into what makes each candidate a prime choice for NFL teams ready to turn their fortunes around.
1 . Ben Johnson
At just 38 years old, Ben Johnson has rapidly ascended as one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates in the NFL. His impressive success as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions since 2022 has placed him at the forefront of coaching conversations. Johnson’s rise has been no fluke; rather, it reflects a steady progression and sustained excellence in offensive production.
Transforming the Detroit Offense
Johnson has been instrumental in revitalizing the Lions’ offense since he became involved in 2019, fully taking over as coordinator in 2022. His impact is measurable through Detroit’s offensive touchdown rates over the past few seasons:
- 2021 (before Johnson): 19.7%
- 2022: 29.5%
- 2023: 30.5%
- 2024: 37.4%
Under his leadership, the Lions’ offensive evolution is undeniable. The running game has become one of the most dominant in the league, creating a foundation for Jared Goff to achieve career highs in completion percentage, yards per pass, and touchdowns. Unlike some systems that rely on aggressive, risky play-calling to pad stats, Johnson’s offense has achieved its elite ceiling without recklessness.
Minimizing Risk, Maximizing Reward
The Lions’ offense has been a model of efficiency under Johnson. Since he took over, Detroit has posted its two lowest turnover rate seasons in over 20 years (2022 and 2024). This careful balance between explosive scoring and ball security has set the Lions apart in a league increasingly defined by offensive output.
The transformation becomes even clearer when comparing Detroit’s rankings in critical metrics before and after Johnson’s tenure as OC:
- Before Johnson (2017-2021):
- 14th in turnover rate
- 23rd in points per drive
- 24th in punt percentage
- Under Johnson (2022-present):
- Among the league’s top offenses in scoring efficiency and ball control
Even Jared Goff, once considered a middling quarterback, has flourished under Johnson. His last two seasons with the Rams saw Los Angeles rank 23rd in scoring percentage and 24th in turnover rate. In his first year with Detroit (2021), those struggles continued. However, under Johnson’s guidance, Goff has become one of the league’s most efficient passers.
Why Johnson Stands Out
In today’s offense-driven NFL, Ben Johnson’s resume is a goldmine for teams looking for a head coach who can elevate their franchise. At a young age, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to maximize talent, build a system that prioritizes efficiency, and produce consistent results over multiple seasons.
Johnson’s innovative yet calculated approach to offensive football makes him the top candidate on this list and a name every team in need of a culture reset should consider.
2. Mike Vrabel
Mike Vrabel is an established leader with a proven track record of overachieving as a head coach. While his tenure with the Tennessee Titans ended after six seasons, his success in maximizing the team’s potential has made him a top candidate for head coaching roles.
Offensive Success Under Arthur Smith
Vrabel’s Titans thrived offensively during Arthur Smith’s tenure as offensive coordinator (2019-2020). During this time, Tennessee ranked fifth in points per game and second in yards per play, producing consecutive top-10 scoring offenses for the first time since 1993. Ryan Tannehill’s career revival was a highlight, with Tannehill ranking fifth in PFN’s QB+ metric in both seasons.
Overachieving Expectations
As reflected in betting data, Vrabel consistently led his teams to exceed public expectations. From 2019 to 2022, the Titans covered the spread 56% of the time, showing their ability to outplay predictions and perform well under pressure. This included a run to the Conference Championship as a No. 6 seed in 2019.
Winning Margins: Discipline and Ball Security
Vrabel’s Titans excelled in the small details. They ranked third in penalty margin and committed the fourth-fewest turnovers in the league during his tenure. On a per-drive basis, only teams led by elite quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, and Russell Wilson were more secure with the ball.
Challenges Without Arthur Smith
Offensive struggles emerged after Smith departed for Atlanta in 2021. Tennessee failed to finish higher than 15th in points per game in Vrabel’s other four seasons. Tannehill’s production dropped, underscoring the impact of Smith’s offensive system.
Leadership Style and Challenges
Vrabel’s assertive leadership style sometimes led to tension. Reports indicate he sought significant control over roster decisions, a factor in his clash with Titans ownership. His recent role with the Cleveland Browns demonstrated a willingness to adapt by working in coaching consulting and development.
The Injury Question
Under Vrabel, the Titans consistently ranked among the most injured teams, with high salary costs tied to players on injured reserve. While this trend may not be entirely on Vrabel, prospective employers should consider how his approach impacts player availability.
Why Vrabel Stands Out
Vrabel’s ability to foster disciplined, overachieving teams makes him a prime candidate for a new head coaching opportunity. His leadership could transform a struggling franchise into a consistent contender if paired with the right front office and offensive coordinator.
3. Brian Flores
Consistent Defensive Excellence
Brian Flores has built a reputation as a defensive mastermind, showcasing a track record of success across multiple teams. As the defensive play-caller for the New England Patriots in 2018, Flores propelled their defense from 27th to seventh in EPA per play. He carried that success to the Miami Dolphins, where the defense leaped from 30th in 2019 to fourth in 2020 and finished sixth in 2021. His impact continued with the Minnesota Vikings, improving their defense from 20th in EPA per play in 2023 to second in 2024.
Under Flores’ guidance, teams consistently improve their Defense+ rankings, with Miami rising from 32nd to sixth during his tenure and Minnesota jumping to third in 2024. His ability to elevate defenses makes him a top-head coaching candidate.
Adaptability to Surroundings
Unlike many coaches from the Bill Belichick coaching tree, Flores has demonstrated an ability to adapt his schemes to fit his personnel. While the Dolphins played a league-high rate of man coverage during his time as head coach, Flores adjusted in Minnesota, using man coverage sparingly (18%) but effectively. The Vikings rank second in EPA per play in man coverage since 2023, proving his ability to maximize his team’s strengths.
Team Discipline and Turnovers
Flores’ teams thrive on discipline and taking advantage of opponents’ mistakes. During his time in Miami, the Dolphins committed the seventh-fewest penalties and boasted the third-best penalty-yardage differential. From 2020-21, the Dolphins had the ninth-best turnover differential, forcing the fourth-most turnovers in the NFL during that span.
Challenges in Previous Roles
Quarterback Management Issues
Flores’ time in Miami was marred by his strained relationship with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Public criticisms from Tagovailoa in 2024 highlighted Flores’ abrasive style, which reportedly affected the young quarterback’s confidence. Benching Tagovailoa mid-game for Ryan Fitzpatrick twice in 2020 also raised questions about Flores’ ability to manage quarterbacks effectively.
Offensive Coordinator Instability
Flores’ tenure as a head coach was plagued by instability on the offensive side of the ball. Miami cycled through four offensive coordinators in three seasons, with none lasting more than a year. His unconventional decision to appoint co-coordinators in 2021 resulted in further regression, with the Dolphins’ scoring offense falling to 22nd that year.
Why Flores Stands Out
Flores remains a top-tier candidate despite past challenges due to his defensive acumen and adaptability. Teams seeking a disciplined leader to rebuild their defense should strongly consider Flores, provided he pairs himself with an experienced offensive coordinator to avoid past mistakes. His ability to transform defenses and instill discipline makes him an appealing option for franchises looking for immediate impact.
4. Liam Coen
Transforming Tampa Bay’s Offense
Liam Coen orchestrated one of the league’s most potent offenses in his first season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Under his guidance, the Buccaneers leaped from 22nd in PFN’s Offense+ metric last season to third in 2024. This dramatic improvement was achieved despite injuries to key players Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, with rookie running back Bucky Irving stepping up to lead all rookies in scrimmage yards.
Baker Mayfield’s Career Revival
Coen’s impact on quarterback Baker Mayfield has been remarkable. Mayfield posted one of the best seasons in franchise history, ranking eighth in EPA per play—a significant jump from his 14th-place ranking in 2023. Mayfield’s ability to avoid pressure is a critical factor in his resurgence. Under Coen, Mayfield reduced his pressure rate from 34% in 2023 to just 24% in 2024, the third-lowest in the NFL. His quicker decision-making dropped his average depth of target (aDOT) from 8.6 air yards (fifth-deepest) to 6.9 air yards (seventh-shortest), allowing him to maximize efficiency and minimize risk.
Track Record of Quarterback Development
Coen’s ability to develop quarterbacks predates his time in the NFL. As offensive coordinator at Kentucky in 2021, he played a pivotal role in Will Levis’ breakout season. Previously a backup at Penn State, Levis accounted for 33 touchdowns (24 passing, nine rushing) under Coen’s guidance, ranking fourth in the SEC that year. This performance elevated Levis into first-round draft discussions and showcased Coen’s knack for elevating quarterback play.
Why Coen Is a Top Candidate
Liam Coen’s success in Tampa Bay and his track record with developing quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Will Levis make him an appealing head coaching candidate. His ability to adapt to personnel challenges and create high-performing offenses is a valuable asset for any team seeking an innovative leader to revitalize their franchise.
5. Aaron Glenn
A Decade of Defensive Coaching Excellence
Aaron Glenn brings a wealth of experience from both his 15-year career as a Pro Bowl defensive back and over a decade of coaching at the NFL level. Before joining the Detroit Lions as defensive coordinator in 2021, Glenn was instrumental in developing the New Orleans Saints’ secondary as their defensive backs coach from 2016-20.
Turning Around Detroit’s Defense
When Glenn arrived in Detroit, he inherited a defense that ranked among the league’s worst in nearly every category, including red zone efficiency, points allowed per drive, and turnover rate. The 2020 Lions defense allowed a staggering 2.95 points per drive, but Glenn’s impact was immediate and sustained. Under his leadership, Detroit’s defense steadily improved each season:
- 2020 (Before Glenn): 2.95 points allowed per drive
- 2021: 2.52
- 2022: 2.28
- 2023: 2.03
- 2024: 1.91
This remarkable transformation improved the Lions’ defensive efficiency and contributed to a complete culture shift within the organization.
Experienced and Steady Leadership
At 52, Glenn brings a mature, steady hand to the coaching ranks. While he may not possess the youthful buzz of younger candidates like Ben Johnson, Glenn’s age is no deterrent. Comparisons to other veteran coaches, like Dan Quinn, who rejuvenated his career and led the Commanders to the playoffs at 54, illustrate Glenn’s strong case as a head coaching candidate.
Why Glenn Is a Top Candidate
Aaron Glenn’s ability to overhaul Detroit’s once-floundering defense into one of the league’s most efficient units demonstrates his leadership and defensive acumen. His extensive experience, proven track record, and ability to instill a winning culture make him a standout candidate for teams seeking a coach who can deliver immediate results while fostering long-term success.
6. Kliff Kingsbury
Adaptability and Growth in Washington
In his first season as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator, Kliff Kingsbury has demonstrated flexibility, addressing concerns over his previously rigid tendencies as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. He has diversified personnel usage significantly:
- Kingsbury leaned heavily on wide receiver-heavy sets with the Cardinals, leading the NFL in 4+ WR formations (17.1%).
- In Washington, the 2024 Commanders rank 19th in 3+ WR sets (60.1%) and have increased 2+ TE sets to 33.7%, showcasing a more balanced offensive approach.
This adaptability has been key to maximizing the talent available, proving Kingsbury’s ability to tailor his system to fit different personnel groups.
Maximizing Dual-Threat Quarterbacks
Kingsbury has a strong track record of unlocking the potential of dual-threat QBs. During his time with the Cardinals, Kyler Murray ranked second in rushing yards off designed runs from 2019-22, trailing only Lamar Jackson. In 2024, rookie Jayden Daniels has flourished in Washington, ranking third in rushing yards off designed runs and excelling in plays outside the pocket with the second-highest EPA per dropback behind Jackson.
Aggressiveness on Fourth Downs
Kingsbury’s aggressiveness on fourth downs is a hallmark of his coaching philosophy.
- During his tenure in Arizona, the Cardinals went for it on fourth down at the third-highest rate in the NFL (24%).
- His bold decision-making led to a 56.5% conversion rate and the third-highest EPA added on fourth downs from 2019-22.
This calculated risk-taking has consistently provided an edge, keeping his offenses dynamic and unpredictable.
Challenges in Late-Season Performance
The “Kliff Cliff” is a term coined to describe Kingsbury’s teams’ tendency to falter in the second half of the season. Data from both his Cardinals and Commanders tenures show consistent declines in EPA per play from September-October to November-January.
However, Kingsbury’s 2024 Commanders saw a smaller decline compared to his time in Arizona. Jayden Daniels’ rib injury in Week 7 may have contributed to the dip, suggesting some progress in avoiding late-season stagnation.
Lingering Questions from Arizona
Despite some offensive success with the Cardinals, Kingsbury’s units failed to make significant strides after 2021, and both the offense and Kyler Murray’s performance declined sharply in his final season.
- Arizona peaked in 2021 at 10th in Offense+ but plummeted to 23rd in 2022.
- Murray peaked with a 10th-place finish in QB+ in 2021 but fell to below-average rankings in every other season under Kingsbury.
Why Kingsbury Remains a Top Candidate
Despite his past struggles, Kingsbury’s ability to adapt in Washington, his success with dual-threat quarterbacks, and his aggressive yet calculated offensive approach make him a compelling candidate. Teams seeking an offensive mind who can maximize talent and take calculated risks may find Kingsbury to be an ideal fit, provided they can address his historical late-season challenges.
7. Joe Brady
Elite Offensive Impact with the Bills
At just 35 years old, Joe Brady has solidified his reputation as one of the brightest young minds in football, thanks to his transformative work with the Buffalo Bills offense. Since taking over as offensive coordinator in Week 11 of the 2023 season, the Bills have soared to new heights:
- Points Per Drive: Improved from 2.45 (Weeks 1-10) to 2.75 (Weeks 11-17).
- Turnover Rate: Reduced from 17.3% to 7.1%, showcasing an emphasis on ball security.
This dramatic improvement has been instrumental in Buffalo becoming the league’s second-highest-scoring offense and ranking third in average time of possession and sixth in total yards per game under Brady’s guidance.
Maximizing Talent Without Sacrificing Creativity
While Brady has benefited from working with Josh Allen, a presumptive 2024 MVP candidate, his ability to optimize Allen’s strengths without sacrificing his creativity is noteworthy. Allen’s average depth of throw has increased by 2.4% during Brady’s tenure, yet the offense has maintained elite efficiency. Brady’s structured yet flexible approach allows Allen to take calculated risks while minimizing turnovers.
- QB+ Over Expectation: Allen ranks second in this advanced metric, further highlighting Brady’s role in maximizing his quarterback’s potential.
- Red Zone Excellence: The Bills now boast the league’s third-best red zone offense under Brady, a testament to his innovative play-calling and ability to excel in high-pressure situations.
Why Brady Is a Top Candidate
Brady’s resume positions him as one of the most intriguing head coaching candidates in the NFL. His ability to elevate an already talented offense and manage the fine line between aggression and discipline makes him stand out. While his track record as a developmental coach remains untested, his offensive creativity and adaptability offer immense promise for any team seeking a modern, forward-thinking leader.
8. Todd Monken
A Stellar Return to the NFL
After three successful seasons as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Georgia, Todd Monken returned to the NFL with lofty expectations—and he has exceeded them. In two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, Monken has redefined their offense, helping Lamar Jackson deliver MVP-caliber performances and guiding the team to offensive dominance.
Under Monken, the Ravens lead the AFC in scoring, showcasing his ability to adapt to the strengths of his roster rather than forcing a rigid system.
Adapting to Roster Strengths
Monken’s flexibility is one of his greatest assets. In 2023, Baltimore ranked 11th in pass rate over expectation, leaning on Jackson’s arm and decision-making. The strategy paid off, as the Ravens won an NFL-high 13 games and Jackson earned accolades for his stellar play.
This season, Monken adjusted again when Baltimore acquired Derrick Henry, shifting to a more run-heavy approach (29th in pass rate over expectation). Rather than stifling Jackson’s development, Monken’s balanced strategy has further enhanced his quarterback’s skill set.
Lamar Jackson’s Growth Under Monken
Monken’s influence on Jackson’s progression is undeniable:
- Pre-Monken (2021-22): 89.4 passer rating, 7.3 YPA, 4.1% TD rate, 2.8% INT rate
- With Monken (2023-24): 109.4 passer rating, 8.3 YPA, 6% TD rate, 1.3% INT rate
Jackson’s QB+ over expectation, a custom metric comparing his performance to the opposition’s average, is more than double that of any other quarterback in the league.
Why Monken Is a Top Candidate
Monken is one of the NFL’s premier offensive minds, blending creativity with adaptability to maximize his players’ strengths. At 58, he remains at the forefront of the modern game, making him an attractive candidate for teams seeking an innovative leader who can craft an elite offense around their personnel.
9. Vance Joseph: Defensive Mastermind
Elite 2024 Broncos Defense
Vance Joseph’s work with the Denver Broncos in 2024 is a career-defining achievement. Under his guidance, Denver’s defense skyrocketed to first in PFN’s Defense+ metric after ranking 26th the previous year. Despite not being a star-heavy unit—aside from standout cornerback Patrick Surtain II—Joseph has crafted a top-tier defense with discipline and precision.
This season, Denver blitzed at the third-highest rate in the league while playing man coverage at the sixth-highest rate, resulting in the second-highest pressure rate and the NFL’s best EPA per dropback.
Past Struggles
Joseph’s tenure as a head coach for the Broncos (2017-18) was plagued by a carousel of offensive coordinators and quarterbacks, with the team ranking 28th in passing efficiency. Game management errors, including misusing timeouts and challenges, also marred his time in Denver.
However, his ability to turn a struggling Denver defense into the league’s best in 2024 is a testament to his coaching evolution, making him a strong candidate for teams seeking defensive identity and leadership.
10. Adam Stenavich
Offensive Balance and Development
Building Green Bay’s Offense
Adam Stenavich, a former collegiate left tackle, has utilized his expertise to transform Green Bay’s offense into a balanced and efficient unit. During his three seasons as offensive coordinator, the Packers ranked sixth in yards gained per drive, thanks to a dynamic run game fueled by Josh Jacobs and the development of quarterback Jordan Love.
In 2024, Love’s growth is evident—his yards per attempt increased by 11.1%, and his red zone completion rate surged from 53.8% to 66.7%. Stenavich’s ability to elevate a young offense, especially in scoring situations, highlights his adaptability and strategic insight.
Why Stenavich Stands Out
Stenavich’s offensive versatility extends beyond a ground-and-pound approach. He has proven capable of balancing a powerful run game with efficient quarterback development, making him a compelling candidate for teams seeking to revitalize their offense and maximize red zone opportunities.
Honorable Mention: Kellen Moore – Offensive Innovator
Kellen Moore’s name has been a constant in head coaching discussions, and his offensive acumen keeps him on the radar. A record-breaking quarterback during his collegiate days at Boise State, Moore has brought his knack for the game to successful stints as an offensive coordinator with the Cowboys, Chargers, and Eagles.
Proven Ability to Maximize Talent
Moore has consistently elevated his quarterbacks, starting with Dak Prescott in Dallas, where he boosted Prescott’s yards per pass rate by 10.8% in Moore’s first season as offensive coordinator. His innovative schemes have translated into tangible success, particularly in play-action situations—a growing focal point in the NFL.
Play-Action Success Across Teams
- Cowboys (2019-22): 103.5 passer rating
- Chargers (2023): 107.9 passer rating
- Eagles (2024): 114.5 passer rating
These improvements demonstrate Moore’s adaptability and his ability to tailor play-action strategies to his personnel, a vital skill in today’s offensive-driven league.
Turnover Suppression and Red Zone Efficiency
This season with the Eagles, Moore played a key role in their offensive turnaround. Philadelphia ranked seventh in red zone trips per game and achieved the fourth-lowest giveaway rate in the NFL, a marked improvement from their 30th-ranked turnover rate the previous year. His ability to suppress turnovers and enhance red zone opportunities has been instrumental in the Eagles’ postseason push.
Kellen Moore’s ingenuity, adaptability, and track record of maximizing offensive talent make him an appealing candidate for teams looking to energize their offense with a proven play-caller.
