With the NFL season coming to a close, the teams that did not make the playoffs are starting to prepare for next season. Several of these teams will head into next season under new on leadership.
Multiple teams are looking for a new head coach, and additional opportunities may open up over the next few weeks.
Here is a look at some teams that will be in the spotlight this off-season.
Carolina Panthers (5-11)
The Carolina Panthers fired long-time coach Ron Rivera, so the team is looking for a new head coach as they attempt to get back on track after a mediocre 5-11 season. The Panthers have already interviewed former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy.
The team also plans to interview University of Baylor head coach Matt Rhule after Baylor finishes their season in the Sugar Bowl.
Other names that the Panthers plan to interview include New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman, and the Panther’s current interim coach Perry Fewell.
The new Panthers head coach will have to decide whether star Quarterback Cam Newton is a part of the future.Â
New York Giants (4-12)
The New York Giants fired Pat Shurmur after two seasons. Under Shurmur’s leadership, the Giants finished in third and fourth place in the NFC East the last two years.
The Giant’s primary target is Baylor Coach Matt Rhule, though they also hope to speak with Josh McDaniels. Kansas City offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is another candidate for the position.
Cleveland Browns (6-10)
The Cleveland Browns fired Freddie Kitchens after one season. The Browns came into the season with high expectations from both fans and analysts but finished the season 6-10.
Cleveland has not been to the postseason in 18 years.
The Browns have Josh McDaniels, Mike McCarthy, and Greg Roman on their radar. The NFL franchise also hopes to speak with 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.Â
Jacksonville Jaguars (6-10)
Jaguars owner Shad Khan is scheduled to speak with head coach Doug Marrone.
During the meeting with Khan, Marrone intends to explain why he should remain the head coach. Khan hasn’t publicly stated his thoughts on Marrone’s performance as head coach during the season.
Recently, the Jaguars fired Executive Vice President of Football Operations Tom Coughlin.
Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
The Cowboys are a team to watch as long-time coach Jason Garrett’s contract is up.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says that he is in no rush to make a decision on if Garrett will be offered a new contract or if the team will go in another direction.
Washington Redskins (3-13)
The Washington Redskins fired Jay Gruden after an 0-5 start to his sixth season as coach. They also fired team president Bruce Allen.
The Redskins are trying to finalize a deal to hire Ron Rivera as their new head coach. Redskins owner Dan Snyder is desperate to get the team back into contention.
The Redskins haven’t won a playoff game in 14 seasons. Snyder is also upset at the declining attendance at home games.
