2 NFL Head Coach Vacancies Filled as Giants and Falcons Make Key Hires

NFLFebruary 8, 2026

The NFL coaching carousel picked up speed over the weekend, trimming the list of head coach openings to seven. Two of the most recognizable names on the market came off the board fast, as teams moved decisively to lock in proven leadership.

Both hires brought clarity to a busy hiring cycle and reshaped the search for the remaining franchises.

New York finalized a deal Saturday night to name John Harbaugh as its next head coach. The former Ravens head coach had been tied to the Giants for several days, with reports pointing to steady progress behind the scenes. Once terms were settled, the organization made the hire official.

Harbaugh’s situation drew light interest from Las Vegas, though those talks never moved beyond a phone call. New York stayed aggressive, and that focus paid off. The Giants wanted Harbaugh, and Harbaugh wanted New York, which helped move the process along without delay.

Instagram | usatodaysports | Atlanta secured former Browns coach Kevin Stefanski shortly after the Giants’ big move.

Not long after the Giants’ announcement, Atlanta followed with a major hire of its own. The Falcons officially brought in Kevin Stefanski, the former Browns head coach and a two-time Coach of the Year.

Stefanski had recently completed a virtual interview with the Raiders. Shortly after, he removed his name from that search, clearing the path for Atlanta to secure its preferred candidate.

Several teams are still searching for leadership on the sidelines, including: Browns, Cardinals, Dolphins, Raiders, Ravens, Steelers, and Titans.

The Raiders continue to cast a wide net, requesting interviews with 13 candidates so far. Eight virtual interviews have already taken place, with multiple in-person meetings scheduled for Monday.

These early hires tightened the field and increased pressure on remaining teams to act with purpose. As interviews continue, the next wave of decisions is expected to come together quickly, shaping the league well before offseason programs begin.