There are a lot of intriguing NFL head coaching vacancies out there right now.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best ones and who best fits the opening:
Las Vegas Raiders – Jim Harbaugh, University of Michigan HC
With rumors abound that Harbaugh is looking for a path back to the pros, it only makes sense that he would be linked with an organization known for making splashy hires.
After the resignation of Jon Gruden in October, interim head coach Rich Bisaccia did an admirable job filling in, but doesn't appear to be a long-term solution. Harbaugh has been successful everywhere he’s been, including a Super Bowl appearance with San Francisco. Plus, he’s another big-name head coach that owner Mark Davis loves. Seems like a perfect fit.
Miami Dolphins – Brian Daboll, Buffalo Bills OC
When the Bills drafted QB Josh Allen he came with some questions. He was tall with a huge arm, but lacking in many other areas. After a few years with Brian Daboll, Allen developed into one of the league’s best signal-callers.
With Tua Tagovailoa having an up-and-down first couple of seasons, Daboll would be an excellent choice to mentor the young quarterback. Miami seems committed to Tua moving forward, so their front office would be wise to go after one of the NFL’s most sought-after offensive minds to help him along the way.
Minnesota Vikings – Eric Bieniemy, Kansas City Chiefs OC
For the past few seasons, Eric Bieniemy has been a hot name in NFL coaching circles. But despite a ton of buzz, Bieniemy has failed to land a head coaching gig. Coaching under Andy Reid and not calling plays may be a factor, but Matt Nagy and Doug Pederson both landed HC jobs in recent years under similar circumstances.
After being one of the engines behind the historic Kansas City offense, it’s a bit puzzling that he remains an assistant. If he does land a top job this winter, a spot with a surplus of offensive talent that he can utilize would make a ton of sense. How about the Minnesota Vikings?
Minnesota has a ton of playmakers, highlighted by Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, and Dalvin Cook. Eric Bieniemy would come in with full reign and possibly construct one of the best offenses in the NFL. If Bieniemy finally gets his well-deserved chance this year, he could turn the Vikings into a highlight reel.
New York Giants – Doug Pederson, former Philadelphia Eagles HC
Sure, taking a cast-off from a division rival doesn’t sound great, but it’s not like the Giants are hiring Jay Gruden here. Doug Pederson was able to win a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles not all that long ago and experts have already tabbed him as one of the top candidates for the Giants’ head coaching job.
With the Eagles, Pederson won multiple NFC East titles and was able to help Carson Wentz look like an MVP at one point, a feat that seems more impressive after Wentz’s recent meltdown with the Colts. With his history of winning, Pederson could come in and establish a culture that the Giants were sorely lacking under recently-dismissed head coach Joe Judge.
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