NFL

NFL Midseason Report: Evaluating the 10 New Head Coaches of 2026

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 5, 2026, 19:33 IST

With the 2026 NFL season at the halfway point, we examine the performance of the 10 new head coaches who took the helm this offseason, tracking their progress, struggles, and playoff outlooks.

NFL Midseason Report: Evaluating the 10 New Head Coaches of 2026

The 2026 NFL season saw a historic turnover in leadership, with 10 teams hiring new head coaches during the offseason. This figure ties the league record for the most coaching changes in a single year, matching the totals from 1978, 1997, 2006, and 2022. As the league reaches the eight-week mark, the performance of these new leaders has varied significantly, ranging from playoff contenders to teams already looking toward the future of their rosters.

Among the standout performers, the Buffalo Bills have thrived under Joe Brady. Boasting a 6-1 record, the team currently leads the NFL in points per game and maintains a 99.4% probability of reaching the postseason according to the Football Power Index. Conversely, teams like the Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins have struggled to find consistency, with both franchises currently holding a 1-7 record and facing slim chances of postseason contention.

Performance and Trends Across the League

The Pittsburgh Steelers, led by Mike McCarthy, have leveraged a physical run game and a stout defense to secure a 6-2 record. While the passing attack remains a work in progress, their undefeated home record at Acrisure Stadium has been a bright spot. Meanwhile, the New York Giants have exceeded expectations under John Harbaugh, matching their 2025 win total already and positioning themselves as favorites in the NFC East, despite significant injuries to key players like Brian Burns and Jaxson Dart.

The Cleveland Browns have adopted a resilient identity under Todd Monken, with all five of their victories coming via game-winning drives. However, the offense remains inconsistent, and the team faces uncertainty regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson’s availability. In Las Vegas, Klint Kubiak has revitalized the passing game behind veteran Kirk Cousins, though the Raiders have been hampered by a lack of production in the run game and defensive struggles against opposing rushing attacks.

Other teams are currently navigating more difficult transitions. The Atlanta Falcons, coached by Kevin Stefanski, have shown flashes of offensive potential under Michael Penix Jr. but continue to struggle with turnovers and defensive identity. The Baltimore Ravens, under Jesse Minter, have faced a difficult stretch following injuries to Lamar Jackson, leading to a series of second-half collapses. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals have struggled with injuries and inconsistent play under Mike LaFleur, and the Dolphins are prioritizing the development of a young rookie core as they look toward the 2027 draft.