Predicting which NFL head coach gets fired first in 2026

Five NFL head coaches are seen as being on the hot seat as the 2026 season begins. Each is in charge of a team entering the year with varying levels of expectation, making them the frontrunners for being fired first this season.

Dan Quinn, the Washington Commanders' head coach, finished with a 12-5 record and made it to the NFC Championship Game in his first season. However, a 5-12 record followed, marred by the league's worst defense in yards allowed per game (384.3) and points allowed (26.5). After spending $159 million in guaranteed free-agent money and hiring first-year coordinators, the job security for Quinn appears uncertain.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles saw his team's NFC South streak end after a 6-2 start turned into an 8-9 finish. Bowles, with a 35-33 record, lost key players Mike Evans and Lavonte David. He handed the offense over to new coordinator Zac Robinson. The defense ranked 22nd in coverage grade and tied for 20th in explosive pass plays allowed.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has missed the playoffs in three consecutive years. Last season marked the first losing season for quarterback Joe Burrow since his rookie year. Cincinnati bolstered its defense by adding DT Dexter Lawrence and drafting DE Cashius Howell. However, the high expectations set by Burrow might be too much to handle.

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn had the worst first season in team history, with a 3-14 record. The team finished last in points, yards, and turnovers differential. Glenn replaced half of his assistants, bringing in Frank Reich as offensive coordinator. The Jets' first game comes against Baltimore in Week 11, where the first firing could potentially occur.