The 2024 NFL regular season has come to a close, marking the end of another thrilling year filled with ups and downs, surprises, and coaching shake-ups. With the playoff picture finally set, four teams made significant moves, parting ways with their head coaches in search of fresh starts. The New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots have all vacated their head coach positions, leading to widespread speculation about potential replacements and the future direction of these franchises.
Each of the four coaching vacancies presents its own unique challenges and opportunities. The Jets initiated their search early, dismissing Robert Saleh after only four games, following their dismal start to the season. Jets owner Woody Johnson shocked many with this decision, citing the team's stagnant performance as the impetus for change. Saleh's tenure ended with the Jets sporting a record of 20-36 and no playoff appearances, extending their postseason drought to 13 years, the longest active streak in the NFL.
Next up, the Bears relieved Matt Eberflus of his duties after three seasons, with his exit coming just after the Thanksgiving holiday, following a heart-wrenching defeat to the Detroit Lions. Eberflus wrapped up his stint with the Bears with a record of 14-32, marred by questionable game management and six consecutive losses. Interim offensive coordinator Thomas Brown will take over as the team looks to redefine its path forward.
Meanwhile, the Saints parted ways with Dennis Allen after his third consecutive losing season, triggered by their seventh straight loss. Allen's dismissal marks the first midseason firing since the late Tom Benson purchased the team, signalling the franchise's recognition of the urgent need for change. The team appointed special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi as interim head coach, but the future remains uncertain for the long-tenured organization.
Lastly, the Patriots announced the firing of Jerod Mayo, who struggled to replicate the success of his predecessor Bill Belichick. Mayo's record was disappointing at 4-13, and his exit raises questions about the franchise's direction as it seeks to rebound from years of mediocrity. Highlighting the appeal of the Patriots job, with $130 million available in salary cap space and multiple high draft picks, potential candidates will likely be drawn to the opportunity to lead the team back to its former glory.
The pros and cons of each open position provide insight for potential candidates. For the New England gig, the Patriots' significant cap space is enticing, as well as the promise of new facilities set to open by 2026. The downside, though, is the current state of the roster, which has glaring holes needing to be filled, particularly at offensive line and wide receiver.
Chicago's coaching vacancy attracts attention due to the potential of quarterback Caleb Williams, who could thrive under the right leadership. With $82 million of salary cap space to navigate, the Bears offer considerable leverage for the incoming coach. Still, the NFC North presents tough competition, meaning immediate success could be challenging.
New Orleans offers its own mix of pros and cons; the stability of the front office stands out, but salary cap issues and limited flexibility could pose significant challenges for the new head coach.
For the Jets, the roster includes exciting young talent, such as wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall. Not to mention, they possess nearly $80 million of cap space and several high draft picks. The challenge, though, lies with the team culture and the looming uncertainty of Aaron Rodgers as he likely considers his future with the organization. Following another tough year full of injuries and inconsistency, Jets fans are left to wonder what lies ahead for their beleaguered franchise.
Despite the tumultuous end-of-season adjustments across the board, the playoff field for the 2024 NFL season solidified on Sunday, with all eyes now pivoting toward 2025. The offseason will be filled with discussions about potential coaching candidates and strategies as teams strive to improve their fortunes next fall.
The 2024 regular season has concluded, but it is clear the excitement of the offseason is just around the corner. Fans eagerly await announcements surrounding new head coaches, staff changes, potential trades, and, of course, the NFL Draft as teams prepare for another competitive year.