Navigating the NFL’s Coaching Carousel: Five Key Figures Poised for Prominent Roles in 2025

The NFL, akin to other high-stakes industries, operates under a set of notoriously stringent and often unpredictable standards. In this competitive arena, even a coach celebrated as Coach of the Year one season can find themselves dismissed the next if their team's performance falters. This phenomenon reflects the broader trend of high coaching turnover, which disregards past achievements and accolades. Each season ushers in a new round of evaluations and adjustments, frequently resulting in abrupt and unforeseen changes. As we honor the inherent unpredictability of professional coaching transitions, here are five coaches—some of whom are familiar faces—who are poised to assume prominent roles in 2025.

Mike Vrabel

The case of Mike Vrabel exemplifies the volatility within the NFL coaching landscape. Just two years removed from earning Coach of the Year honors, Vrabel was dismissed despite a commendable career record of 54-45, an AFC Championship Game appearance, and securing the top seed in the conference. Such achievements, however, did not shield him from the scrutiny and eventual departure that characterized his final season with the Tennessee Titans. Now transitioning to a coaching and personnel consultant role in Cleveland, Vrabel’s departure is likely a temporary hiatus rather than a permanent exit from coaching. His impressive credentials, including a storied career as a linebacker with the New England Patriots, position him as a prime candidate for teams in need of a transformative coach. Vrabel’s reputation as a pragmatic, player-focused leader with a robust defensive background makes him an attractive prospect for franchises seeking to invigorate their coaching staff. In a bold and speculative move, I propose that Nick Sirianni could be replaced by Mike Vrabel. Howie Roseman’s meticulous roster management has crafted a team primed for championship contention over the next decade. Replacing Sirianni, who has faced criticism for reportedly abrasive behavior, with Vrabel could provide a much-needed infusion of leadership and discipline. This change might be exactly what the team needs to maximize its remaining Super Bowl window and fully capitalize on its championship aspirations.

Ben Johnson

Ben Johnson’s situation further illustrates the fluid nature of coaching prospects. Had Jim Harbaugh not shown interest in returning to the NFL this offseason, Johnson would have emerged as a leading offensive-minded head coaching candidate. Despite the strong possibility of interest from teams such as the Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions, Johnson chose to remain with the Lions, valuing the stability and rewards of staying in Detroit. His decision, while unexpected, underscores his competitive drive and loyalty. Johnson’s success in revitalizing Jared Goff’s career and his creative play-calling strategies, including innovative utilization of players like Penei Sewell, highlight his offensive prowess. Should Matt Eberflus depart from the Chicago Bears following a disappointing season, Johnson could be a compelling candidate to replace him. His offensive acumen, coupled with the innately gifted Caleb Williams and a litany of offensive firepower, could present a significant challenge for the rest of the NFL.

Bobby Slowik

Bobby Slowik's ascent is marked by his success in developing quarterbacks, notably C.J. Stroud, whose performance under Slowik’s guidance was exemplary. Although Slowik’s first year as a play-caller was marred by the challenges of a rebuilding Houston Texans team, his second year demonstrated his capability in nurturing rookie talent. Houston has already extended his contract with a notable pay increase, but his long-term future remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Dennis Allen of the New Orleans Saints, despite a superficially respectable 9-8 record, could be on shaky ground due to a disproportionate number of victories against teams with losing records and constant underperformance. Should the Saints seek to shift their defensive focus, Slowik could emerge as a prime candidate due to his proven ability to develop quarterbacks and adapt to evolving team needs.

Bill Belichick

Bill Belichick’s departure from the New England Patriots appeared nearly inevitable given his strained relationship with general manager Robert Kraft. Currently outside the league, Belichick is preparing for a return to coaching by 2025, with the goal of surpassing Don Shula’s record of 328 career victories. Although there are questions about the relevance of his coaching methods in the modern NFL, Belichick’s illustrious career—marked by six Super Bowl Championships—ensures substantial interest from teams seeking a seasoned and venerable leader. The primary challenge for Belichick will be adapting his approach without the extensive roster control he previously enjoyed. While his defensive acumen remains a significant asset, there are concerns about his ability to integrate effectively into contemporary offensive strategies. A particularly compelling scenario involves Belichick taking the helm of the Dallas Cowboys, a franchise in search of rejuvenation. This potential move could be seen as a fortuitous alignment: Belichick, a coach with a storied legacy but currently out of favor, stepping into a role with a franchise eager to reclaim its former glory. By replacing Mike McCarthy, Belichick could lead the Cowboys back to postseason relevance for the first time since the Clinton administration, revitalizing a team in need of a transformative leader.

Pete Carroll

Pete Carroll’s forthcoming transition away from football this fall, as he steps into a professorial role at the University of Southern California, represents a significant departure from his coaching career. Although Carroll has not definitively ruled out a return to coaching, his current focus on academia does not preclude potential future opportunities. At 72, Carroll’s illustrious career, including a combined record of 181 wins and two Super Bowl appearances, remains a testament to his exceptional coaching abilities. Despite his age, Carroll’s extensive experience and past successes could attract teams seeking to revitalize their franchises. A particularly speculative scenario involves the Pittsburgh Steelers potentially pursuing Carroll to replace Mike Tomlin, should Tomlin’s tenure end following the team’s first losing season since Bill Cowher’s era. While such a scenario is speculative, it reflects the ongoing interest in Carroll’s potential contributions to a franchise in need of a strategic overhaul.