Black Monday in the NFL, which falls on the first Monday after the season ends, often marks the day when teams make significant changes, especially at the head coach level. Following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, this year’s Black Monday saw a wave of firings, but several major teams had already made moves earlier in the year. The New York Jets, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints were among those that had let go of their head coaches during the regular season, allowing them to start their search for new leadership ahead of time.
As a result, January 8 transformed into a hectic day filled with interview requests from teams looking to fill head coaching vacancies. Many organizations inundated the coaching market with requests, making it a busy period for potential candidates.
Among the teams actively conducting interviews, the Jets are reportedly going to talk with a total of 13 candidates. This impressive list includes a mix of coordinators and former head coaches who are not currently with an NFL team. Names on their list include:
– Aaron Glenn, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator
– Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs and former head coach of the Bears
– Brian Flores, defensive coordinator for the Vikings and former Dolphins head coach
– Josh McCown, quarterback coach for the Vikings
– Arthur Smith, former head coach of the Falcons and current Steelers offensive coordinator
– Mike Vrabel, who was the head coach of the Titans
– Ron Rivera, previously head coach of the Panthers and Washington Commanders
– Rex Ryan, known for his time with the Jets and Bills
– Brian Griese, quarterback coach for the 49ers
– Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator from the Broncos
– Bobby Slowik, offensive coordinator for the Texans
– Joe Brady, offensive coordinator with the Bills
– Jeff Ulbrich, currently serving as the Jets’ interim head coach
The Bears, having parted ways with Matt Eberflus in December, are also actively seeking a successor and plan to interview 11 candidates. This list features some familiar names, including:
– Aaron Glenn
– Mike Vrabel
– Brian Flores
– Arthur Smith
– Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator with the Lions
– Mike McCarthy, who is the head coach of the Cowboys
– Thomas Brown, interim head coach for the Bears
– Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator for the Dolphins
– Mike Kafka, offensive coordinator for the Giants
– Drew Petzing, offensive coordinator from the Cardinals
– Todd Monken, currently with the Ravens
– David Shaw, who has experience from Stanford and is currently a senior personnel executive for the Broncos
In the case of the Jacksonville Jaguars, they have shown interest in eight possible candidates. Their list includes:
– Aaron Glenn
– Ben Johnson
– Joe Brady
– Todd Monken
– Robert Saleh, former head coach of the Jets and current offensive consultant for the Packers
– Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator from the Eagles
– Liam Cohen, offensive coordinator with the Buccaneers
– Patrick Graham, defensive coordinator for the Raiders
The New Orleans Saints have started their candidate interviews as well, with a list of seven that they are considering. These candidates include:
– Aaron Glenn
– Mike Vrabel
– Joe Brady
– Mike Kafka
– Anthony Weaver
– Kellen Moore
– David Shaw
The New England Patriots have also been linked to discussions with Mike Vrabel, known for his history with the team as a player, alongside talks with Ben Johnson. Reports indicate they are even looking at Byron Leftwich, the former offensive coordinator for the Buccaneers, as a potential interviewee.
As teams get ready for these interviews, dates are beginning to emerge, but many organizations are still working out the logistics for their upcoming discussions. Some coaches could move on to second or even third rounds of interviews if their initial meetings go well.
Overall, Black Monday 2025 has marked the beginning of a new chapter for several teams in the NFL, as they search for fresh leadership to guide them into the future. It’s an exciting and challenging time for both organizations and coaches in the league.
