As the 2026 NFL season approaches, head coaches find themselves in precarious situations, with several under pressure to deliver results. The league operates on a ‘what have you done for me lately?’ mantra, making it vital for coaches to perform or risk losing their positions. Last year saw a high turnover with 10 coaching changes, and this trend is likely to continue.

Here are the five coaches with the hottest seats:

• 5. Shane Steichen, Colts
  2025 record: 8-9, Career record: 25-26
  Steichen has faced challenges with injuries and inconsistent quarterback play. The Colts' management is under scrutiny, and if the team fails to improve, he could be among the first to go.

• 4. Aaron Glenn, Jets
  2025 record: 3-14, Career record: 3-14
  Glenn's defense was historically poor last season, finishing without an interception. Despite offseason efforts to bolster the team, he must show significant improvement to stay in his role.

• 3. Todd Bowles, Buccaneers
  2025 record: 8-9, Career record: 61-74
  Bowles has consistently hovered around .500 but failed to make a playoff push last year. With a transitional roster and the pressure to improve defensively, his job may hinge on immediate results.

• 2. Dan Quinn, Commanders
  2025 record: 5-12, Career record: 60-59
  After a disappointing season following a strong 2024, Quinn faces a tough schedule to start the year. The Commanders’ front office may not tolerate another underwhelming performance.

• 1. Zac Taylor, Bengals
  2025 record: 6-11, Career record: 52-63-1
  With a talented roster and significant defensive investments, Taylor must lead the Bengals back to the playoffs. As Joe Burrow stated, the team has the tools to succeed, and excuses are running thin.

These coaches will need to navigate the pressures of the upcoming season carefully, as their futures may depend on the outcomes.