Mike Tomlin highlights 12 top coaching candidates for 2027 NFL offseason

Mike Tomlin, the former coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, is the top coaching candidate for the 2027 NFL offseason. Tomlin, at 54 years old, has an impressive record of 193-114-2 over 19 seasons and won a Super Bowl with the Steelers. However, it remains uncertain if he will return to the sideline after stepping down as the Steelers' head coach following the 2025 season.

Sean McDermott, the former Buffalo Bills coach, is also a contender, with a 98-50 record over nine seasons and a defensive-minded coaching style. McDermott is currently not employed by an NFL team, which could make him an attractive option for teams looking to hire a new head coach. Brian Flores, the Minnesota Vikings' defensive coordinator, has a reputation for having one of the best defenses in the league, ranking second in defensive EPA per play.

However, Flores is currently involved in a discrimination lawsuit, which may deter some NFL organizations from hiring him. Grant Udinski, the Jacksonville Jaguars' offensive coordinator, is a rising star in the coaching world with a successful track record and a young age. Udinski, at 30 years old, has helped the Jaguars become one of the NFL's most efficient offenses.

Klay Kubiak, the San Francisco 49ers' offensive coordinator, has had a successful first season in the role and is on pace to repeat his performance in 2026. Kubiak, brother of former NFL coach Kyle Shanahan, has helped the 49ers maintain a top-10 offense despite injuries and has contributed to the team's success.