The NFL’s traditional “Black Monday” – the day when non-playoff-qualifying teams initiate sweeping changes to their coaching staffs – left a major shake-up in January 2026.
After a 2025 regular season that saw several franchises finish with poor records, at least four head coaches lost their jobs as organizations prepare to rebuild for 2026.
Raheem Morris and the Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons announced the departure of head coach Raheem Morris after the team was knocked out of the postseason.
Morris’ tenure did not meet the expectations of the owner and the sports management, who are now looking for a profile capable of repositioning the Falcons as contenders in the NFL’s NFC.
Kevin Stefanski fired in Cleveland
One of the most notable news was the departure of Kevin Stefanski as head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
After six seasons with the team and two Coach of the Year awards, Stefanski was fired after the team finished 2025 with a 5-12 record and was out of any NFL playoff contention.
The Browns retained general manager Andrew Berry, but are now in search of new on-field leadership to reverse the negative streak and aim for a return to the postseason.
Pete Carroll and the Raiders’ Reset
The Vegas Raiders also made drastic changes.
Pete Carroll, a long-time coach who had been hired just to coach the 2025 season, was fired after a difficult year.
The team managed only 3 wins and 14 losses, leaving them with the worst record in the NFL and securing the first pick in the 2026 draft.
Jonathan Gannon out in Arizona
The Arizona Cardinals also opted for a fresh start, firing Jonathan Gannon after three seasons and a disappointing overall record.
The 2025 NFL campaign concluded with a poor 3-14 record, and after an in-season incident that included an on-field altercation fine, the franchise decided to move in another direction.
Four head coaches lost their jobs
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Impact and next steps
The departures of these coaches create a ripple effect in the NFL coaching market.
For example, Kevin Stefanski is already considered a candidate for other coaching vacancies, with teams such as the Giants evaluating his hiring.
In addition, organizations that have fired their coaches are now facing key decisions:
From selecting new schemes to draft priorities to bolstering key positions, especially quarterback on teams like the Browns.
For U.S. Hispanic fans, understanding this post-season “reset” is key to following the NFL 2026 narrative.
Prepare for upcoming free agency moves and follow your favorite teams toward a possible competitive comeback.
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