The annual post-season coaching purge known as "Black Monday" has officially begun, with the Atlanta Falcons becoming the first team to announce a major leadership change. On Monday morning, the Falcons dismissed head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot following a disappointing 8-9 season. The move signals the start of what league insiders predict will be a day of significant turnover across the NFL. Stephen Curry's Third-Quarter Explosion Fuels Golden State Warriors' Victory Over Utah Jazz in NBA 2025-26.

While 14 teams prepare for the postseason, the rest of the league has turned its attention to the "hot seat" status of several high-profile coaches. Reports from major networks suggest that the Las Vegas Raiders and Cleveland Browns are the next likely franchises to announce vacancies.

Falcons Move Early

The dismissal of Raheem Morris comes after just two seasons in Atlanta. Despite a late four-game winning streak to end the 2025-26 campaign, ownership reportedly felt the team’s stagnant offense and inconsistent play-calling—despite a roster featuring stars like Bijan Robinson and Drake London—required a fresh start.

Speculation has already begun regarding Morris's successor, with many analysts pointing toward offensive minds like Buffalo Bills coordinator Joe Brady or Seattle’s Klint Kubiak as potential targets to maximize the team's young talent.

One-and-Done in Las Vegas?

The most high-profile departure expected today is that of Raiders head coach Pete Carroll. Sources indicate that the "Carroll experiment" in Las Vegas is nearing its end after just one season. The Raiders finished the year with the worst record in the NFL, leading to rumors that minority owner Tom Brady may look to implement a "Patriot-way" rebuild.

NFL insiders suggest the Raiders are considering a move for Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, potentially pairing him with a new offensive staff to develop a rookie quarterback in the upcoming draft.

Uncertainty in Cleveland and Baltimore

In Cleveland, two-time Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski is facing a likely exit. Despite his past successes, a 7-26 record over the last two seasons has reportedly led the Browns to seek a mutual parting. Stefanski remains highly regarded around the league and is expected to be a top candidate for other vacancies if he is officially released.

Meanwhile, a surprise "question mark" has emerged in Baltimore. After the Ravens missed the playoffs following a Week 18 loss to the Steelers, veteran coach John Harbaugh’s job security is described as "up in the air." While owner Steve Bisciotti has historically been patient, some insiders believe a change could be on the horizon after 18 seasons under Harbaugh.

Who is Likely Safe?

Despite mid-season speculation, several coaches appear to have secured their positions for at least another year:

  • Mike McDaniel (Dolphins): A 5-2 finish to the season has reportedly saved McDaniel's job, though he will work under a new general manager yet to be hired.

  • Aaron Glenn (Jets): Despite a blowout loss to end the season, ownership has indicated Glenn will return to oversee a cultural reset in 2026.

  • Mike Tomlin (Steelers): Following a gritty Week 17 win, Tomlin is expected to remain in Pittsburgh to finish his current contract. Russell Westbrook Claims Top Scoring Spot Among NBA Point Guards, Eclipsing Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson.

Background: The 2025-26 Coaching Carousel

This cycle follows a season that already saw two mid-season casualties. The Tennessee Titans fired Brian Callahan in October after a 1-5 start, while the New York Giants dismissed Brian Daboll in November. With the Falcons now added to the list, the number of open head-coaching positions could reach as high as seven or eight by the end of the week.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 05, 2026 04:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).