What has gone right -- and wrong -- for 10 new NFL head coaches in 2026 season

The 2026 NFL offseason saw a record tie with ten head coaching changes, marking one of the most active offseasons in league history. Notable hires included Klint Kubiak for the Raiders, Todd Monken for the Browns, and Mike McCarthy for the Steelers. Each of these coaches has brought their unique strategies to their respective teams, leading to varied levels of success and challenges early in the season.

For instance, Joe Brady of the Buffalo Bills has led his team to a strong 6-1 record, benefiting from a potent offense that ranks high in scoring. However, the Bills are struggling defensively, with significant issues in their pass defense. Similarly, Mike McCarthy's Steelers are performing well at 6-2, characterized by a strong running game, but their passing game has been inconsistent. Meanwhile, John Harbaugh's Giants have shown improvement with a 4-2-1 record, despite facing injuries to key players. In contrast, Todd Monken's Browns have demonstrated resilience in close games, but their offense remains a work in progress. Kubiak's Raiders have managed to maintain a competitive scoring average despite challenges in their run game and receiving corps.