Ranking NFL head coaches on the hot seat reveals a troubling trend for several teams. In the three weeks since the New York Jets parted ways with Robert Saleh, they have failed to secure a win, going 0-3, and their performance has noticeably declined. This situation highlights two critical insights:
Saleh was not the root cause of the Jets’ struggles.
Additionally, mid-season coaching changes rarely yield positive results.
Despite the evidence, NFL owners often pursue quick fixes. In some cases, a coaching change is necessary to prevent a larger disaster, or simply to appease frustrated fans. This pressure keeps several coaches in precarious positions, with some likely to be dismissed in the coming weeks while others may face the axe at the end of the season.
Here are FOX Sports’ bi-weekly rankings of the seven hottest coaching seats in the league as they approach Week 9:
1. Dennis Allen, New Orleans Saints (Previous ranking: 2nd)
It’s hard to fathom that the Saints started the season 2-0 and were considered surprise contenders. However, after losing six consecutive games, Allen appears to be running out of answers.
While the loss of quarterback Derek Carr significantly impacted the team, the backup, Spencer Rattler, has not delivered, leading to the benching of Rattler in favor of Jake Haener. The Saints have managed to score only 18 points in their last two outings and have suffered three consecutive losses by a staggering combined score of 110-45.
Although Allen has the support of Saints general manager Mickey Loomis, his record of 18-24 as head coach raises concerns. His overall coaching record stands at 26-52, making it evident that improvement under his leadership is unlikely.
Dennis Allen and the Saints have lost six straight games heading into Week 9. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
2. Doug Pederson, Jacksonville Jaguars (Previous ranking: 1st)
Pederson’s job appeared to be on the line after a 32-16 victory over the struggling New England Patriots in London. A loss might have led to his dismissal before the team returned to Florida.
His situation improved slightly with a narrow loss to the Green Bay Packers, highlighting the low expectations in Jacksonville. Currently, the Jaguars are 2-2 in their last four games, and franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence has shown signs of improvement. However, the Jaguars remain among the league’s underachievers, with a record of 3-11 since last December.
Upcoming games against formidable opponents, including Philadelphia, Minnesota, and Detroit, could put Pederson’s job at risk if the Jaguars don’t turn things around.
Doug Pederson and the Jaguars sit at 2-6 on the season (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)
3. Mike McCarthy, Dallas Cowboys (Previous ranking: 3rd)
Mike McCarthy’s job security is under scrutiny despite Jerry Jones’ assurances. The Cowboys’ recent loss to the San Francisco 49ers, characterized by a lack of competitiveness, raises questions about McCarthy’s future.
The Cowboys have struggled at home, with a record of 0-3, and their defense has allowed 77 points in the last two games. McCarthy’s contract ends this season, and if the team’s performance doesn’t improve, even Jones may be forced to reconsider his stance.
4. Matt Eberflus, Chicago Bears (Previous ranking: NR)
Matt Eberflus not receiving a contract extension in the offseason indicates uncertainty from Bears ownership. With a new franchise quarterback on the way, it would have made sense to secure a coach to develop him.
Eberflus is under contract until 2025, but his future may hinge on the performance of the upcoming rookie. Recent inconsistent performances raise concerns about his viability as head coach.
His unconventional decisions, like a handoff to an offensive lineman on a critical fourth down, have not helped his cause.
Will being on the losing end of a Hail Mary lead to Matt Eberflus’ demise in Chicago? (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)
5. Antonio Pierce, Las Vegas Raiders (Previous ranking: NR)
Antonio Pierce initially energized the Raiders after a promising finish last season. However, the absence of a franchise quarterback and the departure of key players has put him in a tough spot.
Currently, the Raiders are on a four-game losing streak, and while they have shown competitiveness in recent games, the lack of wins may lead to a reevaluation of Pierce’s role, especially with Tom Brady as a new minority owner.
If Pierce can’t turn things around, the Raiders may face another rebuilding phase in 2025.
Antonio Pierce and the Raiders are 2-6 on the season. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
6. Zac Taylor, Cincinnati Bengals (Previous ranking: 5th)
After a disappointing 37-17 loss to the Eagles, Zac Taylor’s position is increasingly precarious. The Bengals have not performed up to expectations given their roster’s talent.
With an average of only 18.3 points and 269 yards in their last three games, the Bengals cannot afford to waste the prime of players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.
Will the Bengals need a late-season run to save Zac Taylor’s job? (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)
7. Brian Daboll, New York Giants (Previous ranking: 4th)
Brian Daboll remains on the hot seat despite assurances from co-owner John Mara that he and general manager Joe Schoen would continue through 2025. However, Mara’s phrasing leaves room for interpretation.
While Mara is not misleading, he is aware that circumstances can change rapidly, as past experiences with coaches like Joe Judge and Ben McAdoo demonstrate. Daboll’s team has shown some fight, which may keep him safe for now, but the unpredictable nature of the NFL means nothing is guaranteed.
Dropped from the list:
Nick Sirianni, Philadelphia Eagles (Previous ranking: 6th) — The Eagles have rebounded to a 5-2 record after three consecutive wins, indicating improvement in their offensive performance. However, a playoff run may still be necessary for Sirianni’s long-term job security.
