The new wave of head coaching hires in the NFL has seen a trend toward younger, offensive-minded leading men getting the top jobs. Guys like Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan have spurred a new way of thinking for decision-makers, including Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans.
However, the league still has plenty of veteran greybeards that have seen success at the very highest level and cannot be forgotten about either. Who are the youngest coaches in the league, and which ones are getting up there in age? Let’s take a look at all 32 head coaches in the NFL.
List of NFL Head Coaches by Age From Oldest to Youngest
Andy Reid, Kansas City Chiefs | March 19, 1958 (66)
Andy Reid, the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, enters his 12th season with the team in 2024, having already established himself as one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. Reid is the fourth-winningest coach in NFL history.
Under his leadership, the Chiefs have won three Super Bowls, including back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023. Reid’s innovative offensive strategies have helped shape the Chiefs into a dominant force in the NFL, with 10 playoff appearances in 11 seasons and six consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances. His ability to mentor quarterbacks, including Patrick Mahomes, has been a cornerstone of his success.
Before joining Kansas City, Reid spent 14 seasons as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, where he led the team to nine playoff appearances and a Super Bowl appearance. Reid’s career is marked by his commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, earning him widespread respect throughout the NFL.
John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens | September 23, 1962 (61)
John Harbaugh, the Super Bowl-winning head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, is now in his 17th season leading the team. Harbaugh has established a winning culture, guiding the Ravens to 11 playoff berths, including four AFC Championship games and a Super Bowl XLVII victory.
Under his leadership, the Ravens have posted the NFL’s third-most wins since 2008 and have earned a reputation for excellence, with 12 playoff victories, eight of which came on the road, setting an NFL record. Harbaugh is known for his team-first approach and relentless pursuit of success, often deflecting personal accolades in favor of emphasizing the collective effort of the organization.
His journey to becoming an NFL head coach was unconventional, having served as a special teams coordinator and secondary coach before taking the helm in 2008. Harbaugh’s commitment to excellence has made the Ravens one of the NFL’s most consistently competitive franchises.
Mike McCarthy, Dallas Cowboys | November 10, 1963 (60)
Mike McCarthy was appointed as the ninth head coach in Dallas Cowboys history on January 8, 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record.
McCarthy previously served as head coach of the Green Bay Packers for 13 years (2006-18), where he compiled a 125-77-2 regular-season record and led the team to a Super Bowl XLV victory in 2010. Under his leadership, the Packers made nine postseason appearances, secured six NFC North titles, and reached the NFC Championship Game four times.
Known for his innovative offensive strategies, McCarthy was instrumental in developing top quarterbacks, including Aaron Rodgers and Brett Favre. His Green Bay offenses consistently ranked among the league’s best, regularly placing in the top 10 in passing yards, total offense, and scoring.
Before his head coaching tenure, McCarthy gained valuable experience as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator, working with notable quarterbacks across the NFL. His extensive coaching background and commitment to player development make him a respected figure in the league.
Todd Bowles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers | November 18, 1963 (60)
Todd Bowles enters his third season as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2024, following a successful first two years that saw the team clinch the NFC South title. Bowles ascended to the top post with the Buccaneers after three seasons as the team’s defensive coordinator (2019-21), during which he transformed the defense into one of the NFL’s most formidable units. Under his guidance, Tampa Bay consistently ranked in the top 10 in key defensive metrics, including total yards allowed, sacks, and takeaways.
In his first year as head coach, Bowles maintained the Buccaneers’ strong defensive performance while leading the offense to the second-best passing attack in the league. The team boasted two 1,000-yard receivers in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, and offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs earned his second Pro Bowl selection.
Before joining Tampa Bay, Bowles served as the head coach of the New York Jets and held defensive coordinator roles with the Arizona Cardinals, where he earned Assistant Coach of the Year honors. His NFL coaching career began in 2000, following an eight-year playing career, including a Super Bowl win with the Washington Redskins. Bowles is known for his defensive acumen and ability to develop talent, making him a respected leader in the NFL.
Jim Harbaugh, Los Angeles Chargers | December 23, 1963 (60)
Jim Harbaugh, a proven winner in both college and the NFL, brings a wealth of experience to the table. As a collegiate head coach, he boasts a 144-52 record. Harbaugh led the San Francisco 49ers to three consecutive NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl XLVII appearance. His ability to develop talent is evident, having coached nine eventual first-round picks at Michigan and 17 Pro Bowlers during his time with the 49ers.
At Michigan, Harbaugh led the Wolverines to an 86-25 record over nine seasons, with six seasons of 10-plus wins and a national title in 2023. His teams consistently featured top-ranked defenses, including the nation’s best in multiple seasons. Harbaugh also turned around Stanford University, guiding them to an Orange Bowl victory in 2010. A former NFL quarterback himself, Harbaugh’s career was marked by leadership and efficiency, traits he’s carried into his coaching career.
Sean Payton, Denver Broncos | December 29, 1963 (60)
Sean Payton was named the Denver Broncos’ head coach on February 3, 2023, bringing 34 years of coaching experience, including 24 in the NFL. Payton is best known for his 15-season tenure as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, where he led the team to nine playoff berths, seven NFC South titles, and a Super Bowl XLIV victory.
He holds the Saints’ record for most wins and the highest winning percentage, with a 152-89 regular-season record. Under Payton, the Saints consistently boasted one of the NFL’s top offenses, leading the league in net yards six times and ranking among the top 10 in scoring offenses for 12 of his 15 seasons.
Payton’s coaching career also includes stints with the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Philadelphia Eagles. Before entering the NFL, he coached at several collegiate programs. A former quarterback at Eastern Illinois, Payton’s coaching legacy is marked by developing elite offensive talent, including Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees.
Doug Pederson, Jacksonville Jaguars | January 31, 1968 (56)
Doug Pederson was hired as the Jacksonville Jaguars’ head coach on February 3, 2022. In his first two seasons, Pederson led the Jaguars to consecutive winning seasons, a first for the franchise since 2004-05. In 2023, the Jaguars finished 9-8, with standout performances from QB Trevor Lawrence, WR Calvin Ridley, and RB Travis Etienne Jr., marking the first time the franchise had a 4,000-yard passer, 1,000-yard receiver, and 1,000-yard rusher in consecutive seasons.
Pederson also led the Jaguars to their first AFC South title and playoff appearance since 2017 in his debut season, earning the NFL 101 AFC Coach of the Year honors. Before Jacksonville, Pederson coached the Philadelphia Eagles to their first-ever Super Bowl victory in 2017. He also played quarterback in the NFL for 12 seasons and served as an offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, further solidifying his legacy as a coach.
Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders | September 11, 1970 (53)
Dan Quinn, the new head coach of the Washington Commanders, brings 21 years of coaching experience, most recently excelling as the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys. From 2021 to 2023, his defense ranked among the NFL’s best, finishing top five in points allowed per game and first in interceptions.
Quinn was instrumental in developing stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs, earning recognition as the AP Assistant Coach of the Year in 2021. Before Dallas, Quinn led the Atlanta Falcons to Super Bowl LI and an NFC Championship. He also helmed the legendary Seattle Seahawks defense from 2013-2014, guiding them to consecutive Super Bowl appearances and top NFL defensive rankings.
A former standout defensive lineman at Salisbury State, Quinn and his wife Stacey are dedicated to supporting military members through their organization, Quinn’s Corps.
Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers | March 15, 1972 (52)
Mike Tomlin was named the 16th head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 22, 2007, becoming only the third head coach hired by the team since 1969. At 34 years old, Tomlin led the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in his second season, becoming the youngest head coach in NFL history to win a Super Bowl.
Under his leadership, the Steelers have won seven AFC North titles and made 10 playoff appearances, including two Super Bowl appearances. Remarkably, Tomlin has never had a losing season in his 16 years as head coach.
His tenure has been marked by consistent success, including leading the NFL in sacks for five straight seasons (2017-2021) and guiding the Steelers to multiple playoff berths despite facing significant injuries to key players. Tomlin is also known for his involvement in community service, actively participating in initiatives that promote leadership and positive role models.
Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills | March 21, 1974 (50)
Sean McDermott was named head coach of the Buffalo Bills on January 11, 2017, and has since transformed the franchise into a perennial contender. Under his leadership, the Bills have secured six playoff appearances and four AFC East division titles in his first seven seasons, breaking a 17-year postseason drought.
Known for his disciplined and determined approach, McDermott has cultivated a winning culture in Buffalo, earning the respect of players and peers alike.
McDermott’s tenure is marked by consistent success, with the Bills achieving 10+ wins and playoff berths each year from 2019 to 2023. His impact extends beyond coaching, as he was appointed to the NFL’s Competition Committee in 2024, the first Bills representative on the committee since Bill Polian.
Before joining the Bills, McDermott served as defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, where he led top-10 defenses and played a crucial role in their 2015 Super Bowl run. His coaching roots trace back to his time under Andy Reid with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he honed his skills working with legendary defensive coordinator Jim Johnson.
Brian Daboll, New York Giants | April 15, 1975 (49)
Brian Daboll was hired as the 20th head coach in New York Giants history on January 28, 2022, and quickly made an impact by leading the team to a successful debut season. He was named the 2022 NFL Coach of the Year after guiding the Giants to nine regular-season victories, their first playoff berth in six years, and their first postseason victory in 11 seasons. This turnaround came after the team had won just four games the previous year.
Daboll became the first Giants coach to win the award since Jim Fassel in 1997 and only the fifth coach in team history to receive the honor. Under Daboll’s leadership, the Giants showed remarkable resilience and improvement, especially in close games. His coaching acumen and ability to connect with players revitalized the franchise, making him a key figure in the team’s return to prominence.
Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions | April 13, 1976 (48)
Dan Campbell was named head coach of the Detroit Lions on January 20, 2021. With 25 years of NFL experience, including 11 as a player and 14 as a coach, Campbell brought a new culture of grit and collaboration to Detroit.
In his third year, he led the Lions to a historic 12-5 season, tying the franchise record for wins and securing their first division title since 1993. The team advanced to the NFC Championship for the first time since 1991, marking the Lions’ most successful season in decades.
Under Campbell’s leadership, the Lions excelled in all aspects of the game, setting franchise records for fewest turnovers and winning four prime-time games. The team also boasted seven Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors. Campbell’s impact was felt beyond the field as he fostered a resilient, winning culture, earning him recognition as a finalist for the AP Coach of the Year Award.
Raheem Morris, Atlanta Falcons | September 3, 1976 (47)
Raheem Morris was named the 19th head coach in Atlanta Falcons history on January 25, 2024, after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams from 2021-2023. During his tenure with the Rams, Morris helped the team achieve two playoff appearances and win Super Bowl LVI.
In his three seasons with Los Angeles, Morris’s defense ranked among the NFL’s best, finishing fourth in red zone efficiency and seventh in rushing yards allowed per game. His 2023 defense, despite being one of the youngest in the league, secured a playoff berth and saw standout performances from rookies Kobie Turner and Byron Young, who combined for 17 sacks.
Before joining the Rams, Morris spent six seasons with the Falcons in various roles, including assistant head coach and defensive coordinator. He served as the Falcons’ interim head coach in 2020, leading the team to a 4-7 record over the final 11 games.
Antonio Pierce, Las Vegas Raiders | October 22, 1978 (45)
Antonio Pierce was named head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders on January 19, 2024, after serving as interim head coach for the final nine games of the 2023 season, where he led the team to a 5-4 record. A former NFL linebacker, Super Bowl Champion, and Pro Bowl selection, Pierce has been with the Raiders since 2022 as their linebackers coach.
During his interim tenure, Pierce inspired the Raiders to several standout performances, including a franchise-record 63 points in a Week 15 victory and a road win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Under his leadership, the team finished the season with the fewest penalties in the NFL and allowed just 16 points per game in the final stretch.
Before joining the Raiders, Pierce coached at Arizona State, where he was a defensive coordinator and one of the nation’s top recruiters. Pierce’s NFL playing career spanned nine seasons, primarily with the Washington Commanders and New York Giants.
Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers | November 3, 1979 (44)
Matt LaFleur was named the 15th head coach of the Green Bay Packers on January 8, 2019. Over his first five seasons, LaFleur led the Packers to a 56-27 regular-season record (.675), the best in the NFC and tied for third in the NFL during that span. His 56 wins are tied for the second-most by any head coach in NFL history over their first five seasons, trailing only George Seifert.
LaFleur guided Green Bay to the playoffs four times in five years, including three straight 13-win seasons and two NFC Championship Game appearances. In 2021, he was the runner-up for AP NFL Coach of the Year. LaFleur also coached QB Aaron Rodgers to back-to-back MVP awards in 2020 and 2021.
Before joining the Packers, LaFleur served as the offensive coordinator for the Rams (2017) and Titans (2018) and coached QBs for the Redskins (2010-13) and Falcons (2015-16).
Kyle Shanahan, San Francisco 49ers | December 14, 1979 (44)
Kyle Shanahan became the 20th head coach of the San Francisco 49ers on February 6, 2017. Under his leadership, the 49ers have enjoyed multiple successful seasons, highlighted by a 13-4 record and an NFC Championship appearance in 2022.
That season, Shanahan’s team won 10 straight games, claimed the NFC West title, and saw four players earn first-team All-Pro honors, including Nick Bosa, who was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Shanahan’s innovative offense, featuring standout performances from WR Brandon Aiyuk and RB Christian McCaffrey, ranked among the NFL’s best. Rookie QB Brock Purdy led the team to a 7-1 record, including the playoffs. In 2019, Shanahan was named NFC Coach of the Year after guiding the 49ers to a 13-3 record, an NFC West title, and a Super Bowl appearance. His tenure has solidified him as one of the NFL’s top coaches.
Dave Canales, Carolina Panthers | May 7, 1981 (43)
Dave Canales was appointed head coach of the Carolina Panthers on January 25, 2024, becoming the seventh in franchise history. Before joining Carolina, Canales served as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, leading the team to an NFC South title and a playoff win.
Under his guidance, quarterback Baker Mayfield had a career year with 4,044 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and a 64.3% completion rate. Running back Rachaad White also excelled, nearly reaching 1,000 rushing yards and ranking third among NFL running backs in receiving yards.
Prior to his time in Tampa Bay, Canales spent 13 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, contributing to a Super Bowl title and multiple playoff appearances. He played a key role in developing quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Geno Smith. Canales brings a strong background in offense and player development to the Panthers, aiming to build a competitive team in the NFC South.
Nick Sirianni, Philadelphia Eagles | June 15, 1981 (43)
With 34 regular-season victories in his first three seasons, Nick Sirianni holds the record for the most wins by any head coach in their first three years with the Philadelphia Eagles. He is also the only coach in Eagles history to start his tenure with three consecutive playoff appearances.
Sirianni has overseen two of the largest single-season win improvements in the team’s history. He is just the second head coach in NFL history, alongside Bill Walsh, to increase his team’s win total by five or more games in back-to-back seasons.
Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland Browns | May 8, 1982 (42)
Kevin Stefanski was named the Cleveland Browns’ 18th head coach on January 13, 2020. In his four seasons, Stefanski has led the Browns to a 37-30 (.552) record, the best four-year stretch for the team since 1986-89.
He guided Cleveland to two postseason appearances and two 11-win seasons, becoming only the second coach in franchise history, alongside Paul Brown, to achieve multiple 11-win seasons.
Under Stefanski, the Browns have consistently surpassed 6,000 scrimmage yards each season, and the team ranks third in the NFL with an average of 139.6 rushing yards per game since 2020. His leadership also brought significant individual accolades, including AP NFL Coach of the Year honors in 2020 and 2023.
Despite challenges, including significant injuries in 2023, Stefanski has maintained the Browns’ competitiveness, highlighted by a record 11 wins and leading the team to the top-ranked defense in the NFL.
Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals | January 4, 1983 (41)
Jonathan Gannon was named the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals on February 14, 2023, after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2021-2022. Gannon brings 16 years of NFL experience, having worked with teams like the Colts, Vikings, Titans, Rams, and Falcons before joining the Cardinals.
In his first season with Arizona, Gannon led the Cardinals to three wins over postseason-bound teams, including two impressive victories on the East Coast in December. The Cardinals also set a franchise record in 2023 by having eight games without a turnover.
During his tenure with the Eagles, Gannon’s defense ranked in the top 10 both seasons, including a second-place finish in total defense in 2022. His 2022 Eagles defense led the NFL with a franchise-record 70 sacks and boasted four players with 10+ sacks, the first time in NFL history for such an achievement.
Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins | March 6, 1983 (41)
Mike McDaniel became the 11th head coach of the Miami Dolphins on February 7, 2022. In his first two seasons, McDaniel led the Dolphins to consecutive playoff appearances, becoming just the third coach in franchise history to do so in his first two years.
The 2023 season saw Miami achieve its first 11-win season in 15 years and lead the NFL in total offense (401.3 yards per game) for the first time since 1994.
Under McDaniel, the Dolphins’ offense excelled, featuring standout performances from QB Tua Tagovailoa, who led the league in passing yards (4,624), and WR Tyreek Hill, who recorded the seventh-most receiving yards in NFL history (1,799). The team also set a franchise record with 56 sacks on defense. Six Dolphins were selected to the Pro Bowl, including Hill and Tagovailoa.
McDaniel’s leadership and offensive play-calling have revitalized the Dolphins, making them a top contender in the NFL.
Zac Taylor, Cincinnati Bengals | May 10, 1983 (41)
Zac Taylor was named the 10th head coach in Bengals history on February 4, 2019. In 2023, he led the Bengals to their third consecutive winning season with a 9-8 record despite injuries to key players. Taylor adapted the offense, particularly after QB Joe Burrow’s injury, guiding QB Jake Browning to a strong finish.
In 2022, Taylor’s Bengals tied a team record with 12 regular-season wins and earned their second straight AFC North title. The team advanced to its second consecutive AFC Championship, with Taylor becoming the 13th head coach to win five of his first six postseason games.
In 2021, he led the Bengals to an AFC title and a Super Bowl appearance while overseeing the development of star players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase.
DeMeco Ryans, Houston Texans | July 28, 1984 (40)
DeMeco Ryans enters his second season as head coach of the Houston Texans, having been appointed on January 31, 2023, as the sixth head coach in franchise history.
In his first year, Ryans led the Texans to a 10-7 record, securing a playoff berth and their seventh AFC South title. Houston made history by becoming the first NFL team to win their division with both a rookie quarterback, C.J. Stroud, and a first-year head coach. Ryans and Stroud also became the fourth rookie QB and head coach duo to win a playoff game, defeating the Cleveland Browns 45-14 in the Wild Card round.
Under Ryans, the Texans saw Stroud and DE Will Anderson Jr. win NFL Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year, marking a sweep of the top rookie awards. Ryans was named PFWA Coach of the Year, and the Texans boasted top-10 rankings in turnover margin and rushing defense. Ryans’ leadership has revitalized the Texans, making them a rising force in the NFL.
Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans | June 10, 1984 (40)
Brian Callahan was hired as the 20th head coach in Tennessee Titans history on January 24, 2024. With 18 years of coaching experience, including 14 in the NFL, Callahan spent the previous five seasons (2019-23) as the offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals. During his tenure in Cincinnati, he helped guide the team to two AFC North titles, two AFC Championship appearances, and a Super Bowl berth.
Under Callahan’s leadership, quarterback Joe Burrow developed into one of the league’s top passers, setting multiple franchise records and earning Pro Bowl honors. Callahan also oversaw an offense featuring standout wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd, along with running back Joe Mixon, who consistently ranked among the NFL’s best.
Callahan’s experience working with top-tier offenses and quarterbacks, combined with his success in Cincinnati, makes him a promising leader as he takes the helm of the Titans.
Shane Steichen, Indianapolis Colts | May 11, 1985 (39)
Shane Steichen was hired as the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts on February 14, 2023, bringing 13 years of coaching experience, including 12 in the NFL. He previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he helped lead the team to Super Bowl LVII in 2022.
During his tenure in Philadelphia, Steichen oversaw an offense that led the NFL in rushing yards per game (153.6), total rushing yards (5,224), and rushing touchdowns (57). The Eagles also ranked first in fewest interceptions and set franchise records for third-down conversion percentage in consecutive seasons.
In 2022, Steichen guided the Eagles’ offense to top-10 finishes in multiple categories, with QB Jalen Hurts setting career highs across the board. The Eagles also had two 1,000-yard receivers (A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith) and a 1,000-yard rusher (Miles Sanders). The team led the NFL with eight Pro Bowl selections, with six on offense.
Before joining the Eagles, Steichen spent seven seasons with the Chargers, where he played a key role in developing quarterbacks Philip Rivers and Justin Herbert.
Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings | May 25, 1985 (39)
Kevin O’Connell was named the 10th head coach in Minnesota Vikings history on February 16, 2022, after serving as the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. In his first two seasons, O’Connell became the fastest coach in team history to reach 20 wins, achieving this milestone in just 30 games.
Despite losing QB Kirk Cousins to injury in 2023, O’Connell guided the Vikings to a 10-7 record, securing three consecutive wins with different starting quarterbacks, a rare NFL feat. Under his leadership, the Vikings’ offense flourished, finishing fifth in passing yards per game. WR Justin Jefferson, TE T.J. Hockenson, and rookie WR Jordan Addison each surpassed 900 receiving yards, tying an NFL record.
O’Connell’s impact was also felt on defense, with the Vikings improving from 31st to 16th overall. In his debut season, he led the team to 13 wins and a division title, marking the most wins by a first-year Vikings head coach.
Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams | January 24, 1986 (38)
On January 12, 2017, Sean McVay was named the 23rd head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, becoming the youngest head coach in modern NFL history at 30 years old. In his first six seasons, McVay led the Rams to four playoff berths and two Super Bowl appearances, winning Super Bowl LVI.
McVay has achieved five winning seasons and three NFC West titles with the Rams. He reached his 100th career regular season game in 2023, boasting a 61-39 record, one of the highest winning percentages among active coaches in their first 100 games.
Under McVay’s guidance, the Rams’ offense and defense have consistently ranked among the NFL’s best. Key players like Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey, and Matthew Stafford have flourished under his leadership. McVay remains the youngest head coach in the NFL, continuing to shape the Rams into a formidable team.
Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots | February 23, 1986 (38)
Jerod Mayo was introduced as the 15th head coach of the New England Patriots on January 17, 2024. A former Patriots linebacker, Mayo was drafted 10th overall in 2008 and played his entire NFL career in New England, retiring in 2015. He was a seven-time team captain, a two-time Pro Bowler, and a 2014 Super Bowl Champion.
Mayo returned to the Patriots as the inside linebackers coach in 2019, after working as a business executive at Optum. Under his leadership, the Patriots’ defense consistently ranked among the NFL’s best, finishing in the top 10 in total defense four times in his five seasons. Mayo played a significant role in the development of star players like Matthew Judon and Joshua Uche.
Mayo emphasized a coaching philosophy centered on developing people both on and off the field, stating, “My calling is to be a teacher and to develop people, helping them see what they need to see.”
Mike Macdonald, Seattle Seahawks | June 26, 1987 (37)
The Seattle Seahawks named Mike Macdonald the ninth head coach in franchise history on January 31, 2024. Macdonald joins Seattle after spending nine of the last ten seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, including the last two as their defensive coordinator. His 2023 Ravens defense made history by finishing first in the NFL in points allowed (16.5 ppg), sacks (60), and takeaways (31) while also leading in point differential (+203) and turnover margin (+12).
Under Macdonald’s leadership, the Ravens boasted four AP All-Pros, including S Kyle Hamilton and DT Justin Madubuike. In 2022, the Ravens ranked third in scoring defense and run defense. Before returning to Baltimore, Macdonald led the University of Michigan’s defense in 2021, where his unit ranked eighth nationally in scoring defense. Macdonald played a key role in developing DE Aidan Hutchinson, a Heisman Trophy finalist.
A Georgia alum, Macdonald began his coaching career at the University of Georgia and Cedar Shoals High School.
Chicago Bears | Vacant
The Bears had never fired a head coach in-season until they let go of Matt Eberflus following the team’s Week 13 loss to the Detroit Lions, which demonstrates how frustrated the club’s ownership and front office were with the results that Eberflus had produced in 2024.
Chicago went 10-24 over Eberflus’ first two seasons in charge, but this year was supposed to be different.
Justin Fields was out, and No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams was in. New offensive coordinator Shane Waldron came aboard to design a scheme around Williams’ talents, incorporating a WR trio — DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and first-round rookie Rome Odunze — viewed among the NFL’s best.
Moreover, the Bears’ defense — Eberflus’ specialty — showed signs of tremendous growth in 2023, especially after Chicago acquired EDGE Montez Sweat at the deadline. The Bears held six of their final opponents to 20 points or fewer and finished the year eighth in weighted defensive DVOA, which reduces the importance of early-season games.
New York Jets | Vacant
The New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh was fired during the 2024 NFL season. He finishes his tenure in New York with a 20-36 mark, having failed to achieve a winning record in any of his three-plus seasons in the AFC East. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will take over as the Jets’ interim head coach, Peter Schrager of NFL Network reports.
Hired in 2021 after a successful stint as the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator, Saleh was strapped to No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson for his first two seasons with the Jets. Despite boasting excellent defenses, the Jets couldn’t overcome their struggles under center.
Acquiring future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers was supposed to change that. New York traded for Rodgers during the summer of 2023, hoping his addition — combined with a still-elite unit on the defensive side of the ball — would result in wins.
However, Rodgers infamously tore his Achilles on the fourth play of the 2023 campaign, ending the Jets’ season before it started. Rodgers’ 2024 return made this year a make-or-break campaign for New York, and things haven’t gone according to plan.
New Orleans Saints | Vacant
After starting the season 2-0 and scoring 91 points in their first two games, the Saints lost seven straight games and fired head coach Dennis Allen.
In Week 9, the Saints suffered their worst loss of the season. Despite quarterback Derek Carr returning from an oblique injury, New Orleans still couldn’t defeat the lowly Carolina Panthers.
Allen’s defense allowed 23 points to Carolina, including two rushing touchdowns to Chuba Hubbard and a passing score to rookie Xavier Legette. The Panthers and Saints now have the same record (2-7), and Bryce Young picked up his third career win.
Since outscoring opponents 91-29 (+62) during their 2-0 start, the Saints have been outscored 200-116 (-84) during their seven-game losing streak. Allen was 18-25 during his three-plus seasons in New Orleans.
Who Is the Oldest NFL Head Coach?
After both Bill Belichick and Pete Carroll were fired, Andy Reid is currently the oldest head coach in the NFL at 66 years old.
The current Chiefs HC began his career in 1999 when he was hired by the Philadelphia Eagles. He spent 14 seasons with the Eagles, leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance and nine winning seasons. In 2012, after Reid’s worst season to date, the Eagles elected not to renew his contract. He then moved on to the Chiefs and has been there ever since.
Who Is the Youngest NFL Head Coach?
The youngest head coach in the NFL is now Mike Macdonald for the Seattle Seahawks at the age of 37. Macdonald was hired by Seattle during the 2024 NFL hiring cycle. After spending the 2021 campaign as the University of Michigan’s DC under Jim Harbaugh, Macdonald joined John Harbaugh as the Ravens’ defensive play-caller in 2022, replacing Wink Martindale.
How Old Do You Need To Be To Coach in the NFL?
There is no specific age requirement to being a head coach in the NFL, but much like the rules NFL players go through to be draft-eligible, coaches need to be at least three years removed from high school to be eligible for employment.