Coaching News
John Harbaugh is set to become the next head coach of the New York Giants in a major hire that positions him among the NFL’s highest-paid coaches. Per multiple sources including Adam Schefter and Jordan Schultz, the deal is expected to span five years and approach $100 million. The Giants are also dedicating significant financial resources to allow Harbaugh to bring in his preferred staff, including former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, who is reportedly expected to join him.
Harbaugh’s formal agreement with the Giants is still being finalized, and while he has left the team’s facility, sources report the deal is nearly complete. He is set to meet with the Tennessee Titans on Thursday at his residence, although indication is that New York is sparing no expense to close the deal soon. The Giants have made a “massive push” to secure Harbaugh over other suitors, including potential meetings with the Titans and Falcons.
In Pittsburgh, Mike Tomlin has informed players and staff he is stepping down as head coach of the Steelers, ending one of the NFL’s longest coaching tenures. According to The Athletic, Tomlin broke the news in a private and emotional team meeting met with shock and a standing ovation. Tomlin’s calm farewell was marked by gratitude and handshakes with every player as he exited. The Steelers have begun their coaching search, requesting interviews with Rams quarterbacks coach Nate Scheelhaase and defensive coordinator Chris Shula, as well as Vikings DC Brian Flores, who is also a candidate for Washington’s defensive coordinator position.
Meanwhile, Matt LaFleur’s future as Packers head coach remains uncertain following the team’s Wild Card exit. As reported by ProFootballTalk, LaFleur’s status is “up in the air,” a development that puts intriguing pressure on Green Bay’s offseason roadmap. Rams head coach Sean McVay declined to comment on whether he has spoken with LaFleur about their upcoming opponent, saying they are “very close friends” but prepare independently.
The Titans continue to shape their post-Vrabel coaching search, set to interview former Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on Saturday. Analysts suggest Tennessee’s job is particularly attractive due to its existing roster talent and cap structure, potentially placing the team in a strong position to land a top candidate.
Outside of the head coaching circuit, former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel is gaining traction as a coordinator candidate. McDaniel is slated to interview for the Buccaneers’ OC role later this week, having already discussed positions with Detroit and Tennessee. The Eagles are reportedly very interested as they search for a new offensive coordinator, with both McDaniel and Brian Daboll high on their shortlist.
Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti is also reportedly drawing attention for his recent turnaround success in college, generating discourse over whether an NFL team may take an interest during this hiring cycle.
Buccaneers running back Rachaad White sparked headlines with a candid suggestion that head coach Todd Bowles should delegate defensive play-calling duties. The comment comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Tampa Bay’s performance and could impact Bowles’ approach or staffing decisions going into 2026.
Front Office & Ownership
In a significant development likely to impact the league financially, Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, has reportedly received an offer approaching $15 billion for the franchise. According to Bloomberg, the unsolicited bid underscores the soaring value of NFL franchises and makes the Dolphins a focal point of ownership chatter this offseason, though no sale is confirmed.
Media and Broadcasting
Quarterback Kirk Cousins will join CBS for analyst duties during the remaining rounds of the playoffs. With recovery ongoing after Achilles surgery, the veteran QB now shifts temporarily into a media role, offering insights during the postseason broadcast.
Draft and College Impact
Highly-rated Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has announced his decision to return to school for the 2026 season, opting out of the NFL Draft despite being projected as a top pick. This move significantly alters the first-round quarterback landscape and could shift team strategies heading into April.
Other League Developments
The Washington Commanders teased their new stadium, set to open in 2030, via social media. Though lacking in detail, the long-range preview highlights the league’s broader trend toward modernizing and updating stadium experiences for fans.
Finally, Caleb Williams was named the NVP (Nickelodeon Valuable Player) for Wild Card Weekend, a lighthearted recognition tied to Nip games coverage. The honor continues a short tradition lodged in youth-centric NFL programming.