Ranking and Grading the 2022 NFL Head Coach Hires: Complete Analysis
The 2022 NFL head coaching cycle has concluded with nine new appointments. Here's a comprehensive ranking and analysis of each hire, from best to worst:
- Miami Dolphins - Mike McDaniel (Grade: A)
- Former 49ers offensive coordinator
- Perfect fit for Tua Tagovailoa's development
- Brings Shanahan's successful offensive system
- Specializes in quick passing and zone running schemes
- New York Giants - Brian Daboll (Grade: A)
- Credited for Josh Allen's development in Buffalo
- Strong offensive mind
- Potential to maximize talents like Golladay and Barkley
- Only concern is working with Daniel Jones
- Denver Broncos - Nathaniel Hackett (Grade: A-)
- Brings Packers' offensive approach
- Could attract Aaron Rodgers
- Major upgrade from Fangio's defense-first approach
- Grade could improve to A+ if Rodgers follows
- Minnesota Vikings - Kevin O'Connell (Grade: B+)
- From Sean McVay's coaching tree
- Offensive-minded approach
- Well-suited for Jefferson, Cook, and Thielen
- Fresh change from Zimmer era
- Houston Texans - Lovie Smith (Grade: B)
- Highly respected by players
- Strong leadership presence
- Can improve team culture
- Brings stability to troubled organization
- Las Vegas Raiders - Josh McDaniels (Grade: B-)
- Experienced offensive coordinator
- Previous head coaching concerns
- Questions about Patriot Way implementation
- Potential to elevate offense
- New Orleans Saints - Dennis Allen (Grade: C)
- Internal promotion
- Maintains defensive success
- Offensive concerns remain
- Safe but unexciting choice
- Chicago Bears - Matt Eberflus (Grade: C)
- First-time head coach
- Defensive background concerning for Fields' development
- Questions about offensive philosophy
- Potentially misaligned with team needs
- Jacksonville Jaguars - Doug Pederson (Grade: C-)
- Super Bowl-winning experience
- Left Philadelphia controversially
- Brings stability after Urban Meyer
- Safe but uninspiring choice
This hiring cycle showed improvement from previous years, with no clearly poor selections. Each coach brings specific strengths, though success will ultimately depend on implementation and quarterback development.
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