Evaluating Top 10 NFL Head Coaching Hires: Harbaugh to Kubiak

The NFL’s latest hiring cycle saw the appointment of ten new head coaches, with significant focus on their potential and past performance. Several teams aim to resurrect their fortunes, while others hope to build winning cultures. Here’s a ranking of the head coaching hires and evaluations of their abilities, prospects, and challenges.

Ranking the Top 10 NFL Head Coaching Hires of 2026

1. Jim Harbaugh – New York Giants

Jim Harbaugh returns to the NFL after a successful tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, where he posted a record of 180-113. Known for his strong leadership, Harbaugh has an impressive playoff history, having guided teams to 12 playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl victory. His experience should help the Giants quickly rebuild and restore credibility within the franchise.

Grade: A+

2. Kevin Stefanski – Atlanta Falcons

Stefanski is recognized for his offensive prowess, which was underutilized in his previous role with the Cleveland Browns, where he recorded an 8-26 record. He previously took the Browns to the playoffs, demonstrating his ability to develop talent. He is well-suited to optimize the skills of the talented Falcons roster.

Grade: A

3. Jesse Minter – Baltimore Ravens

Jesse Minter, an accomplished defensive coordinator, steps into a head coaching role following a successful stint at Michigan. He inherits a solid roster, with Lamar Jackson at quarterback. Minter’s initial challenge will be to maintain the defensive strength while developing winning strategies.

Grade: B+

4. Mike McCarthy – Pittsburgh Steelers

Mike McCarthy joins the Steelers with a winning record over 18 years and a Super Bowl championship. However, his suitability for a rebuilding project raises questions. The Steelers aim to find their franchise quarterback, which could heavily influence McCarthy’s potential for success.

Grade: B

5. Klint Kubiak – Las Vegas Raiders

Hired after an impressive season with the Seattle Seahawks, Klint Kubiak enters his first head coaching role. With a focus on developing quarterback Fernando Mendoza, his experience under esteemed coaches may aid the Raiders in achieving stability. The franchise has invested in patience for his long-term development.

Grade: B-

6. Todd Monken – Cleveland Browns

Todd Monken brings extensive experience in quarterback development to the Browns, needing to address their ongoing challenges at the position. His previous success with offenses in Tampa and Baltimore gives him a solid foundation, but the team’s recent coaching search raises concerns about his hiring process.

Grade: C+

7. Robert Saleh – Tennessee Titans

Robert Saleh, previously head coach of the New York Jets, has a chance to redeem his coaching career with the Titans. He must leverage a potentially stronger quarterback situation. Saleh’s leadership skills are praised, but questions remain about his decisions during prior stints.

Grade: C+

8. Jeff Hafley – Miami Dolphins

As a former college head coach, Jeff Hafley aims to instill a sense of discipline within the Dolphins. While his tenure at Boston College was mixed, his experience in the NFL enhances his credibility. The Dolphins need leadership to propel them forward, surpassing what was achieved under the previous coaching regime.

Grade: C

9. Joe Brady – Buffalo Bills

Joe Brady, previously the Bills’ offensive coordinator, steps into the head coach role amidst mixed expectations. Despite his relationship with quarterback Josh Allen, the team’s past playoff failures weigh on his reputation. Some doubt whether Brady is the right choice for bringing the Bills back to championship contention.

Grade: D

10. Matt LaFleur – Arizona Cardinals

Matt LaFleur’s hiring has generated buzz, especially given his time with the Rams. However, concerns remain regarding his effectiveness as a head coach, particularly considering the Cardinals had other candidates with stronger track records. He inherits the challenge of transforming the Cardinals’ performance.

Grade: D-

Conclusion

This year’s coaching hires present a mix of experienced leaders and untested assistants. As the 2026 NFL season approaches, it remains to be seen how these appointments will impact their respective franchises. Coaches like Harbaugh and Stefanski are expected to make immediate improvements, while others face significant challenges ahead.