Sportsnaut
The pressure for these coaches is mounting as the 2025 NFL season approaches, as several are running out of time to turn things around. Whether it’s unmet expectations, playoff failures, or underwhelming rosters, these five coaches enter the year with their jobs on the line.
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When Mike McDaniel became the Miami Dolphins‘ head coach in 2022, the franchise looked hopeful. They had two relatively successful seasons, advancing to the Wild Card game in both 2022 and 2023. However, the team doesn’t seem to be improving, finishing 8-9 last season and missing the playoffs. The AFC East is only getting more competitive, with the Jets and Patriots rebuilding and hiring new head coaches, but the Dolphins have seemingly plateaued and will likely make a change in their coaching staff if things don’t improve.
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After a disastrous 3 wins and 14 losses last season, the margin of error for Brian Daboll is razor thin. With uncertainty at quarterback, Daboll’s tenure in New York is likely coming to an end. Unless the Giants miraculously put together a winning year, Daboll is at risk for a potential in-season firing.
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Shane Steichen was brought in as the Indianapolis Colts‘ head coach in 2023, the same year they drafted quarterback Anthony Richardson. Whether it’s fair to Steichen or not, Richardson’s struggles at QB have affected his job security. The Colts have gone 17-17 since 2023 and have yet to make the playoffs since his hire. If the Colts struggle once again, Steichen will likely be on his way out.
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Over the past five years, the Carolina Panthers‘ organization has proven to have a short leash when it comes to head coaches. Dave Canales could lose his job if the Panthers struggle again in 2025, especially with Bryce Young failing to develop under his leadership. His hesitation to commit to a starting quarterback, benching Young temporarily at the start of last season, was a bold decision that likely affected his confidence. While Young did start to improve and had a solid end to the season, if the Panthers struggle yet another year, Canales will likely get the boot.
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With Joe Burrow playing at an MVP level, there is no reason why the Bengals should be missing the playoffs. The 2025 season will be make-or-break for Zac Taylor’s coaching future in Cincinnati. With an elite offensive core and quarterback, anything less than a playoff appearance would likely...
