NFL Black Monday 2016: Coaches on Hot Seat, Rumors and Firing News

Black Monday is a dark time in the NFL when head coaches on teams who didn't meet expectations wait to hear whether they'll be fired.

Continue for updates.

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Smith Fired By Buccaneers 

Wednesday, Jan. 6 

Buccaneers Co-Chairman Joel Glazer released a statement late on Wednesday announcing head coach Lovie Smith was fired by the franchise: 

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After careful consideration, we informed Lovie that we have decided to make a change. I want to thank Lovie for his hard work and dedication to the Buccaneers during his time here. This decision was difficult on a variety of levels. I am disappointed that we were not more successful these past few seasons, but we are committed to doing what is necessary to give our fans the winning team they deserve.   As we move forward, General Manager Jason Licht will oversee the process for finding our next head coach.

"

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Pagano Signs Extension With Colts

Monday, Jan. 4

In a move that surprised most fans, Chuck Pagano signed a four-year contract extension with the Indianapolis Colts. 

“I’ve had a lot of great days in my life, but none better than today,” Pagano said. "This was absolutely the best day of my life.”

The team will also be bringing back G.M. Ryan Grigson.

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Coughlin Resigns as Giants Head Coach

Monday, Jan. 4

Adam Schefter of ESPN passed along a statement from Tom Coughlin on his decision to step down:

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“I met with John Mara and Steve Tisch this afternoon, and I informed them that it is in the best interest of the organization that I step down as head coach. I strongly believe the time is right for me and my family, and as I said, the Giants organization.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as head coach of the New York Football Giants. This is a not a sad occasion for me. I have spent 15 years with this organization as an assistant and head coach and was fortunate to be part of three Super Bowl winning teams. A Lombardi Trophy every five years is an achievement in which we all take great pride.

Obviously, the past three years have not been what any of us expect, and as head coach, I accept the responsibility for those seasons.

I think it has been evident these last 12 years here how much pride I take in representing this franchise. I am gratified and proud that we were able to deliver two more Lombardi trophies to the display case in our lobby during that time. That is a tribute to our players and staff, and it was truly fulfilling to be the leader of those teams.

I appreciate the support of John and his family and Steve and his family, and of Jerry Reese and his staff. I think our organization is a great representation of what I mean when I talk about ‘team’.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not thank my wife Judy and our four children and their spouses and our 11 (soon to be 12) grandchildren. None of this would have been possible without their unconditional love and support.”

"

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McCoy Returns As Chargers Head Coach

Monday, Jan. 4

The Chargers confirmed in a statement from president of football operations John Spanos:

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As the 2015 season has now concluded, we are disappointed with the outcome as our expectations have not been met.

I have the utmost confidence in our leadership. Tom Telesco, Mike McCoy, and I have already begun evaluating every aspect of the team to take the essential steps to put a winning product back on the field. We will waste no time in making the necessary changes.

Throughout a trying season, our players never wavered in their dedication or commitment to the team. I firmly believe the decisions made today and moving forward will get us back on track in 2016.

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On Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported McCoy was thought to be done as San Diego Chargers head coach, but said he could well return. Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune reported he spoke with people close to those mulling over McCoy's job status, and it seemed unlikely he would be fired.

Alex Marvez of Fox Sports reported Friday that McCoy would be out after this season.

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Mularkey Will Get Opportunity to Land Titans Job

Monday, Jan. 4

The Tennessee Titans confirmed in a team release that interim head coach Mike Mularkey will interview for the full-time position.

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49ers Fire Jim Tomsula

Sunday, Jan. 3

After one season and a 5-11 finish, the San Francisco 49ers fired head coach Jim Tomsula. 49ers CEO Jed York provided this statement, via the 49ers' official website:

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Jimmy has been a valuable member of the 49ers organization for the last nine years. We all know he is a man of high character, and his contributions on the field and in our community have always been greatly appreciated. This entire organization is proud and grateful to have worked so closely alongside Jimmy. We all wish him and his family great success in the future.

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York is scheduled to hold a press conference at 10:30 a.m. PT to discuss San Francisco's plan going forward. Tomsula was promoted to replace Jim Harbaugh, who led the 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII.

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Browns Fire Mike Pettine

Sunday, Jan. 3

Cleveland owner Jimmy Haslam released a statement through the Browns' official website indicating he'd fired his head coach in Mike Pettine, as well as general manager Ray Farmer:

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We've made this decision because we don't believe our football team is positioned well for the future. We are all disappointed with where we are and I take full responsibility. We will approach the search for our next football coach and executives to lead our football operations with a clear vision regarding what we need to do to build a successful organization. We will be methodical in looking for strong, smart leaders with high character who are relentlessly driven to improve our football team, willing to look at every resource possible to improve, and who embrace collaboration to ultimately make the best decisions for the Cleveland Browns. We are fully committed to bringing our fans the winning organization they so clearly deserve.

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The Browns' 28-12 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday marked Pettine's 18th defeat in his last 21 games at the helm.

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Lions Ownership Reportedly in Jim Caldwell's Corner

Sunday, Jan. 3

Schefter reported some encouraging news for the Detroit head coach, but added the caveat that the Lions' new general manager will have the final verdict on Jim Caldwell's future.

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Jeff Fisher Reportedly Safe as Rams Head Coach

Sunday, Jan. 3

ESPN's Chris Mortensen, via Rotoworld, reported Jeff Fisher will continue coaching in St. Louis despite failing to post a winning record in each of his first four seasons there.

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Saints Reportedly May Trade Sean Payton

Sunday, Jan. 3

Fox Sports' Jay Glazer, via the New Orleans Advocate's Nick Underhill, reported New Orleans wants a second-round draft pick in a potential deal for its head coach. Schefter, via Underhill, added that Saints general manager Mickey Loomis has given Sean Payton permission to speak with other teams.