NFL Coaching Turnover Might Continue To Increase
After two coaching changes this season, with more likely to come, it's clear that the pressure to win in the NFL is causing owners to make decisions quickly and decisively. The teams making these changes are looking for a spark, a fresh face who can turn their struggling team around. So who could be on the hot seat next? One name being thrown around is Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Nathaniel Hackett, whose team currently has a 3-8 record and is near the bottom of the league in both offense and defense. With star players like quarterback Blake Bortles and running back Leonard Fournette underperforming, it's not looking good for Hackett's future with the Jaguars.
Another potential candidate for a coaching change is Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera. Despite having one of the best quarterbacks in the league in Cam Newton, the Panthers have been inconsistent this season and currently sit at 6-5. Rivera has had some success with previous playoff appearances, but with owner Jerry Richardson recently selling the team to David Tepper, there may be a desire for a new direction.
In Detroit, head coach Matt Patricia has faced criticism for his conservative playcalling and lack of improvement from quarterback Matthew Stafford. However, he may have time to turn things around before facing potential consequences. The same could be said for Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury, whose rookie quarterback Kyler Murray appears to have potential but has not yet translated into wins for the team (currently sitting at 3-7-1).
On the flip side, some assistant coaches could be on their way up to head coaching positions if they impress in their current roles. Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans is reportedly already drawing interest from teams looking for new leadership. Atlanta Falcons interim head coach Raheem Morris has also received praise for stepping up after Dan Quinn's firing earlier this season. Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Shane Steichen has been credited with turning around quarterback Philip Rivers' performance this year. Former Seattle Seahawks and Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn is reportedly drawing interest after being fired mid-season last year. And Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy continues to receive recognition as one of the top assistant coaches in the league, potentially putting him in line for a head coaching job shortly.
Overall, it's clear that NFL owners are willing to make bold moves regarding their coaching staff to try and get their teams back on track toward success. As we approach the end of this season and potentially more changes occur, only time will tell which coaches will stay and which ones will go.
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