Coaches on the Hot Seat? How the 2025 NFL Draft Could Impact These 5 Head Coaches
The 2024 NFL season saw some surprising upsets and disappointing performances, leading to a whirlwind of coaching changes. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, several head coaches find themselves under immense pressure. Their teams’ draft strategies and the success (or failure) of their picks could very well determine their future in the league. With the draft being held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin on April 24–26, 2025, the pressure is on for these coaches to make the right calls.
Here are five head coaches whose fates could be significantly impacted by the 2025 NFL Draft:
1. Brian Daboll – New York Giants: A Make-or-Break Draft
Brian Daboll’s tenure with the New York Giants has been a rollercoaster. After a surprising playoff appearance in his first season, the Giants have regressed significantly, going 9-24 in the subsequent two seasons. The Giants’ offense has been anemic, and the highly criticized decision to hand Daniel Jones a $160 million contract hasn’t paid off. Moreover, letting Saquon Barkley walk, only to see him excel with the Philadelphia Eagles, has further fueled the criticism.
Daboll brought in veteran QB Russell Wilson to try and revive the offense, but the Giants need a long-term solution at quarterback. The 2025 NFL Draft presents a crucial opportunity to find that answer. With the Giants potentially holding a high draft pick, Daboll and General Manager Joe Schoen must nail their selection. Failing to find a franchise quarterback could seal Daboll’s fate. Names like Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, and Jalen Milroe could be in the mix. According to CBS Sports, the Giants “can’t exactly afford big misses” in this draft.
2. Antonio Pierce – Las Vegas Raiders: Building a Foundation
Antonio Pierce took over as interim head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023 after the firing of Josh McDaniels and showed promise. However, his first full season in 2024 resulted in a 4-13 record. The Raiders traded Davante Adams and Pierce had to work with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell at quarterback. With Tom Brady now part of the ownership group, there’s an expectation for significant changes.
The Raiders desperately need a quarterback, and the 2025 NFL Draft is their chance to find one. Pierce’s future likely hinges on his ability to identify and develop a young quarterback who can lead the franchise. If Pierce whiffs on this crucial pick, the Raiders might look for a more established head coach to guide their rebuild.
3. Shane Steichen – Indianapolis Colts: Quarterback Conundrum
Shane Steichen’s first year with the Indianapolis Colts was marred by quarterback instability. While the team showed flashes of potential, a 5-12 record wasn’t what the Colts envisioned. The handling of Anthony Richardson’s benching further complicated matters, raising questions about the team’s direction.
Steichen’s reputation as a “quarterback whisperer,” thanks to his work with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia, earned him the Colts job. However, he needs to find a long-term solution at quarterback in Indianapolis. The 2025 NFL Draft offers an opportunity to draft a potential franchise quarterback or find a player who can complement Richardson. If Steichen fails to address the quarterback position effectively, his seat could get very hot.
4. Mike McCarthy – Dallas Cowboys: Postseason or Bust
Mike McCarthy has led the Dallas Cowboys to consistent regular-season success, but his playoff record has been underwhelming. Despite a talented roster and high expectations, the Cowboys have failed to make a deep playoff run under McCarthy.
McCarthy’s contract expires soon, and a failure to make a significant playoff run could lead to his departure. The Cowboys need to capitalize on their talented roster and make a serious Super Bowl push. The 2025 NFL Draft needs to add pieces that can immediately contribute to a championship-caliber team. If the draft doesn’t yield immediate results, McCarthy might find himself out of a job.
5. Zac Taylor – Cincinnati Bengals: Injuries and Expectations
Zac Taylor’s Cincinnati Bengals missed the playoffs after consecutive postseason appearances. Injuries, including Joe Burrow’s calf strain, hampered the team’s performance. While Taylor has earned goodwill from previous success, another disappointing season could put his job in jeopardy.
The Bengals need to ensure they have the depth and talent to overcome injuries and compete for a Super Bowl. The 2025 NFL Draft is crucial for adding quality players who can contribute immediately. If Taylor can’t get the Bengals back to the playoffs and compete for a championship, his seat will become increasingly hot.
The Ripple Effect of the Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft isn’t just about acquiring new talent; it’s about the future of these head coaches. Their ability to identify, develop, and integrate new players into their systems will be critical. A successful draft can solidify their positions, while a failed one could lead to their dismissal. As the pressure mounts, these coaches must navigate the draft with precision and foresight to secure their futures in the NFL.