NFL Owners’ Apathy Undermines Roger Goodell’s Push for Black Head Coaches
The NFL’s initiative to enhance diversity among coaches has yet to yield significant results, as highlighted during Commissioner Roger Goodell’s recent Super Bowl press conference in San Jose, California. Despite efforts like the expansion of the Rooney Rule, many minority employees in the league feel discouraged by the lack of representation in head coaching positions.
NFL Hiring Trends Undermine Diversity Efforts
This recent hiring cycle has been particularly disappointing. An alarming trend emerged as nearly a third of NFL teams sought new head coaches at the start of the year. Out of the first eight coaching positions filled, seven were awarded to white candidates.
Latest Coaching Hires
- The Arizona Cardinals appointed Mike LaFleur, previously the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams.
- The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to finalize a deal for Klint Kubiak, the current offensive coordinator for the Seahawks.
In stark contrast, only one team, the Tennessee Titans, appointed a coach of color. Robert Saleh, of Lebanese descent, serves as the head coach of the New York Jets. He made history as the first Muslim head coach in NFL history when hired in 2021.
Status of Black Coaches
The numbers paint a grim picture for diversity. In 2026, the league’s count of Black head coaches is the same as it was in 2003: three. Significant progress has been elusive, especially when the league began this season with five Black head coaches and has seen dismissals that have lowered that number.
- Notable firings include:
- Raheem Morris (Atlanta Falcons)
- Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins)
Current Black head coaches in the league include Todd Bowles, Aaron Glenn, and Mike Tomlin, who has had a remarkable coaching career without a losing season in 19 years.
The Underrepresentation of Minority Coaches
The disparities extend beyond head coaches. The NFL began with five Black general managers but currently has just four. These management positions are critical for ensuring a pipeline of diverse coaching talent. Observers emphasize that the lack of Black coaches in offensive roles is particularly concerning, given the emphasis on quarterback development and the preference for offensive-minded hires.
Current State of Offensive Coordinators
- During the regular season, there were no Black offensive coordinators in the NFL.
- Only Eric Bieniemy of the Kansas City Chiefs holds a top offensive position as of January 23, marking a severe gap in representation.
Bieniemy’s success has not translated into a head coaching opportunity, raising questions about the NFL’s commitment to diversity. Critics often cite the success of coaches who previously held the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator position, yet Bieniemy remains without an offer.
Future Directions for NFL Diversity
Goodell has acknowledged the need for reflection on this year’s hiring outcomes. He emphasized the importance of training and education to improve opportunities for minority candidates. The league must evaluate policies and programs critically to address current challenges.
Despite the incremental efforts from the league office, it is clear that meaningful change requires commitment from franchise owners. Without serious engagement from team owners, the goal of a more diverse coaching landscape will remain out of reach for the NFL.
As Goodell believes, diversity strengthens the league. The success of the NFL depends on achieving a truly inclusive workforce across all levels of the organization.
