What's Happening?
As the 2026 NFL hiring cycle progresses, several young coaches under the age of 35 are emerging as top candidates for head coaching positions. This trend follows the success of Sean McVay, who became the youngest head coach in NFL history in 2017 and led the Los Angeles Rams to significant achievements. Among the notable young coaches are Grant Udinski, the offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Davis Webb, the offensive passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos. Udinski has been instrumental in the Jaguars' 13-4 record and AFC South victory, while Webb, a former NFL quarterback, has quickly risen through the coaching ranks under Sean Payton's mentorship. Other promising candidates include Declan Doyle of the Chicago Bears
and Nate Scheelhaase of the Los Angeles Rams, both of whom have shown potential in their respective roles.
Why It's Important?
The rise of young coaches in the NFL reflects a shift in hiring practices, where teams are increasingly willing to take risks on less experienced candidates who show promise. This trend could lead to a more dynamic and innovative approach to coaching, as younger coaches often bring fresh perspectives and new strategies to the game. The success of these young coaches could influence other teams to adopt similar hiring practices, potentially reshaping the landscape of NFL coaching. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens are already showing interest in these emerging talents, indicating a growing demand for youthful leadership in the league.
What's Next?
As the hiring cycle continues, teams will likely conduct interviews and evaluations to determine the best fit for their coaching needs. The interest from multiple teams suggests that these young coaches will have opportunities to advance their careers, potentially leading to head coaching positions. The decisions made during this cycle could set a precedent for future hiring practices, encouraging more teams to consider younger candidates. Additionally, the performance of these coaches in their new roles will be closely watched, as their success or failure could impact the perception of hiring young, inexperienced coaches in the NFL.
