Early on in the 2026 coaching cycle, the Baltimore Ravens appeared to be far and away the best opening for head coach candidates. After firing John Harbaugh, they have constructed a list of 16 candidates and are undoubtedly a prime landing spot.
However, the hiring cycle is getting underway, and the Ravens have yet to narrow down their list. Others have already hired their coaches. The New York Giants brought in Harbaugh, the Atlanta Falcons signed Kevin Stefanski, and the Tennessee Titans reportedly have their list down to three names.
While on Sunday, Baltimore remained the top vacancy, things may change now. On Monday morning, the Buffalo Bills fired Sean McDermott. This move comes two days after a disappointing end to Buffalo’s season, losing a heartbreaker to the Denver Broncos in the Divisional Round.
The #Bills are moving on from coach Sean McDermott after their loss in the divisional round to the #Broncos, per The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/VhQGWwfa6s
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 19, 2026
Like the Ravens, it’s clear that the Bills' front office was tired of coming up short in the biggest moments. Now, they immediately rival Baltimore for many of the top head coaching candidates.
Ravens face playoff-caliber competition in coaching cycle
Perhaps the hottest name of this cycle is Miami Dolphins former head coach Mike McDaniel. Despite being fired this offseason, McDaniel is still an elite offensive mind. In a better situation, he could do more damage, and the Ravens fan base would love to have a coach like him leading an offense with Lamar Jackson at the helm.
Jackson and Baltimore’s offense have long been elite, but in 2025, it lacked consistency. No matter how many splash plays were made, no matter how much they dominated on the ground, it felt like the coaching staff failed the unit. McDaniel would take it to that next level, and the pairing would be terrifying for the rest of the NFL to see.
However, the Bills’ job might be the hottest opening now. They have their own MVP quarterback in Josh Allen, the 2025 rushing champion in running back James Cook, and a stout offensive line. While the Ravens may have them beat with a deeper roster, Buffalo made the playoffs this year and looked dangerous. That alone may make them the more desirable position.
Baltimore’s front office has been working at a slow and steady pace during its search for a new head coach. Obviously, it’s crucial to get a decision of magnitude right, but with other teams narrowing their searches and the Bills joining the race, they’ll have to work a bit quicker.