Hot Seat Alert for Every NFL Coach and Coordinator Through Week 12

Jon DoveNov 30, 2011

The recent firing of Jack Del Rio has put other struggling coaches on notice. NFL Hot Seat season is officially underway. I anticipate we could see as many as nine head coaches replaced this offseason. These last few weeks will determine the fate of many NFL coaches.

Head coaches aren't the only ones facing pressure. Many coordinators are on the hot seat and could find themselves out of a job. Some of these coordinators will need to take the fall for the head coach. Scapegoating happens very often in NFL coaching circles.

With every firing, there needs to be a replacement. Every year, we hear about the rising assistant coaches who are primed to be the next great head coach. So, this time of year is brings misery for some and opportunity for others.

The upcoming slides break down each team's coaching situation. I identify the coaches and coordinators on the hot seat, as well as the potential replacements and head coaching candidates.

Buffalo Bills

1 of 33

Head Coach: Chan Gailey

Gailey's job is completely safe, as he has been more successful than anyone expected. Gailey has made the most out of his roster while developing players like Ryan Fitzpatrick. His team plays hard every game, which is evident by them exceeding expectations.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Curtis Modkins

Modkins will be around as long as the offense is productive. He is Gailey's guy and will only lose his job if the team completely falls apart. However, the Buffalo offense has produced enough to keep Modkins off the hot seat.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: George Edwards

Buffalo's defense has not performed at a high level, but a lot of that is due to a lack of talent. Edwards is forced to work with castoffs and marginal players. He has done well under the circumstances and will return next season.

Job Security: Safe

Miami Dolphins

2 of 33

Head Coach: Tony Sparano

Tony Sparano is valiantly playing out the rest of this season, knowing he has no shot of returning. This Dolphins team has severely disappointed the past few seasons. Sparano might be a good motivator, but his time in Miami is about to end.

Miami is going to want to make a big splash. I could see Bill Cowher being their top target. This would be a good fit for Cowher, as Miami already has the pieces for a 3-4 attack.

Job Security: Gone

Offensive Coordinator: Brian Daboll

The Miami Dolphins offense is actually playing decent football. Daboll has done a good job mixing the pass and run while utilizing the weapons at this disposal. He will get another offensive coordinator job next season. Daboll is a bright offensive mind who has his best coaching years ahead of him.

If Cowher is brought in he might try to pursuade his former assistant Mike Mularky to join him.

Job Security: Gone, but will catch on elsewhere

Defensive Coordinator- Mike Nolan

Mike Nolan's defense has failed to live up to expectations. Nolan will be out the door with the rest of the coaching staff. However, he will quickly land another defensive coordinator job. Nolan is an accomplished and successful play caller.

Current Pittsburgh Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler would likely be one of Cowher's top targets.

Job Security: Gone, but will catch on elsewhere

New England Patriots

3 of 33

Head Coach- Bill Belichick

Belichick has a kung fu grip on his coaching position. He is in absolutely no danger of losing his job; if anything, he will gain more responsibilities. Belichick's Patriots continue to win football games and contend for Super Bowls.

Job Security: Safe until he decides to retire

Offensive Coordinator: Bill O'Brien

O'Brien's job is safe as long as Tom Brady remains healthy. The Patriots offense is performing at a very high level. Brady plays a major part in the production, but O'Brien has done a good job with this play calling. He has found a way to right the ship after a few less-than-stellar weeks. The sign of a good coach is his ability to adjust.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Bill Belichick

The Patriots do not have an official defensive coordinator, but safety coach Matt Patricia is calling the plays. Belichick might allow Patricia to call the plays, but he is drawing up the game plan. Patricia's job is safe as long as he stays on Belichick's good side.

Job Security: Safe

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New York Jets

4 of 33

Head Coach- Rex Ryan

People might be sick of hearing Ryan boast, but his job is extremely safe. Ryan has led the Jets to back to back AFC Championship games and is embarrassed by the fanbase. He will have this job for a long time. His teams will always play good defense, which means they will rarely have a very poor season.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Brian Schottenheimer

If the Jets miss the playoffs, someone will need to pay that bill. The offense has been heavily criticized all season, which means Schottenheimer will take the fall. He is a good offensive coach, but things have not gone well this season. Schottenheimer's offense ranks towards the bottom of the NFL in every major category. The lack of a running game is what will likely be the downfall of Schottenheimer.

Assistant head coach Bill Callahan would be Schottenheimer's likely successor.

Job Security: Hot Seat, will be the scapegoat

Defensive Coordinator: Mike Pettine

Mike Pettine has a very good shot at getting a head coaching opportunity. Pettine came to New York with Ryan, so he is in no danger of getting fired. This is a great young defensive mind who is capable of running a team of his own.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Baltimore Ravens

5 of 33

Head Coach: John Harbaugh

John Harbaugh's job is safe for the next few years. He continues to keep the Ravens playing at a high level and contending for a Super Bowl. However, the clock is ticking, and if he doesn't earn a Super Bowl berth in two years, he could be gone.

Job Security: Safe, but a warming

Offensive Coordinator: Cam Cameron

Cameron is getting the most out of his offensive weapons. Joe Flacco has taken enough positive steps that Cameron's job is safe. He will remain the offensive coordinator as long as the Ravens make a Super Bowl berth in the near future.

However, Cameron will be the first one on this staff to lose his job. If the Ravens begin to stumble, Cameron will be the scapegoat.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator- Chuck Pagano

Pagano will be the next former Ravens defensive assistant to get a head coaching job. That opportunity might come as early as this offseason. Pagano has this unit playing at a very high level despite some of the aging stars. He has also overseen the development of several young players, including Terrence Cody and Pernell Mcphee.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Cincinnati Bengals

6 of 33

Head Coach: Marvin Lewis

Lewis survived an extremely hot seat to lead the Bengals back to contention. He is one of the top candidates for Coach of the Year honors. His ability to start fresh has been very impressive. A few years from now, we might be using the words Cincinnati and Super Bowl in the same sentence.

Job Security: Very Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Jay Gruden

Jay Gruden will be back in Cincinnati next season. However, another successful run will make him a strong head coaching candidate. His ability to quickly groom Andy Dalton into to a successful NFL quarterback has turned a lot of heads.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Mike Zimmer

Mike Zimmer will be a head coach in the NFL next season. His defenses have been some of the top-performing units in the past several seasons. This year, the Bengals defense is largely seen as a top-three defense. Zimmer has shown the charisma needed to be considered a head coaching candidate.

Look for current linebackers coach Jeff FitzGerald to get a shot at replacing Zimmer.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Cleveland Browns

7 of 33

Head Coach: Pat Shurmur

Shurmur was hand picked by Mike Holmgren and will not be replaced anytime soon. Shurmur will get an opportunity to put his stamp on this offense. Holmgren will be the first to tell you that this team doesn't have a lot of talent.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Pat Shurmur

Shurmur calls the offensive plays and will do so for the foreseeable future, according to an insider. He was brought in because of his ability to run an offense; no reason to take those duties way from him.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Dick Jauron

Jauron will be in Cleveland for the long haul. He was brought in to oversee the Browns transition to a 4-3 system. He will be given the opportunity to stick around until the right pieces are put in place. Jauron has proven that he is capable of running a successful defense.

Job Security: Safe

Pittsburgh Steelers

8 of 33

Head Coach: Mike Tomlin

Tomlin has earned his job security. He continually has the Steelers playing for a Super Bowl berth. His ability to manage tough situations, overcome injuries and still find success makes him one of the top coaches in the NFL. Pittsburgh is very loyal to their coaches, which means Tomlin will be around for a long time.

Job Security: Very Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Bruce Arians

Arians will continue to oversee the Steelers offense. His tenure with the Steelers began in 2003 and will not end anytime soon. The Steelers offense continues to find success despite the overwhelming injuries to the offensive line. Arians has successfully remade this offense's identity several times.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Dick LeBeau

Dick LeBeau will continue to coach in Pittsburgh until he decides to retire. The only reason LeBeau isn't considered a head coaching candidate is because of his age (74).

Pittsburgh's defense continues to play great football, thanks to LeBeau's schemes.

Job Security: Safe

Houston Texans

9 of 33

Head Coach: Gary Kubiak

Kubiak will finally lead the Houston Texans into the playoffs. They have yet to clinch a berth, but are in excellent position. This has been Kubiak's best coaching performance, as his team is winning despite several major injuries. However, those injuries mean that even with a major collapse, Kubiak keeps his job.

Job Security: Safe, officially off the hot seat

Offensive Coordinator: Rick Dennison

The Texans offense is so successful because of their coaches and system. Dennison doesn't have a lot of great weapons to utilize. He has also had to deal with injuries to Arian Foster, Andre Johnson and Matt Schaub. Despite all those setbacks, the Texans offense remains one of the best units in the NFL.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Wade Phillips

Wade Phillips is a marginal head coach, but a great defensive coordinator. Everybody expected improvements, but nobody expected the Texans defense to play this well. Phillips has turned a terrible unit into one of the league's best. Wade Phillips will be in Houston for many years.

Job Security: Very Safe

Indianapolis Colts

10 of 33

Head Coach: Jim Caldwell

The loss of Peyton Manning doesn't make the play of the Indianapolis Colts acceptable. This football team is playing sloppy and uninspired football, which is a result of poor coaching. Caldwell will not be back as the coach next season. He doesn't deserve to have a head coaching job in the NFL.

I could see a defensive minded coach like Mike Zimmer getting a shot as the new head coach.

Job Security: Extreme Hot Seat

Offensive Coordinator: Clyde Christensen

Clyde Christensen's job status is directly tied to the health of Peyton Manning. If Manning returns, then Indianapolis will want someone familiar on the staff. Christensen could remain even if there is a head coaching change.

However, if Manning doesn't return, there will be a complete coaching change.

Job Security: Safe, but the seat is heating up

Defensive Coordinator: Mike Murphy

There will be a new defensive coordinator in Indianapolis. Mike Murphy is only keeping the seat warm until the offseason. The recently fired Larry Coyer is only the first coach to fall; the rest of his former staff will following as soon as the season ends.

The new defensive coordinator will depend on who the head coach is next season. However, if its Zimmer I expect Jeff FitGerald to get first crack at this spot.

Job Security: Gone

Jacksonville Jaguars

11 of 33

Head Coach: Mel Tucker

Tucker will be allowed to finish the season, but will be replaced. Jacksonville has a new owner who will want to put his stamp on the team. Tucker will catch on with another team, but as a defensive coordinator.

Jacksonville would be a good landing spot for someone like Rob Chudzinski, current Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator. Chudzinski has received the majority of credit for the development of Cam Newton. The presence of Blaine Gabbert makes the addition an offensive minded coach a good decision.

However, the new owner could go for a louder hire. This would put someone like Rob Ryan on the Jaguars radar.

Job Security: Gone

Offensive Coordinator: Dirk Koetter

I am surprised that Koetter wasn't replaced before Jack Del Rio. Jacksonville's offense has underperformed in each of the past several seasons. Koetter has also failed to properly develop rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

If Chudzinski is the new head coach, he would want to bring in his own people. Current San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator Clarence Shelmon would be a strong possibility.

Job Security: Gone

Defensive Coordinator: Mel Tucker

Tucker could return as the defensive coordinator if he isn't against the demotion. He has done a great job with this unit, which is why he was the one to replace Del Rio. Any new head coach would be wise to persuade Tucker to stay on staff.

Job Security: Gone

Tennessee Titans

12 of 33

Head Coach: Mike Munchak

Tennessee was expected to be in a rebuilding year, but have still found some success. Munchak was a surprise hire for the Titans. This makes me weary about his long term prospects. Titans owner Bud Adams is a spontaneous man. He could easily fire a coach for no reason; anyone remember Jeff Fisher?

However, I think Munchak will get another opportunity to coach this team. He has been able to squeeze every once of talent out of each player.

Job Security: Safe?

Offensive Coordinator: Chris Palmer

Munchak is a very loyal man who will stick by his staff. Palmer's offense hasn't exactly been explosive. However, there has been enough promise for him to keep his job. His job would be a lot safer if Jake Locker got some playing time and showed development.

Job Security: Safe, fate tied to Munchak

Defensive Coordinator: Jerry Gray

Jerry Gray is a very underrated defensive coordinator whose job is safe in Tennessee. He has a long history of putting together strong defensive units. Gray and Munchak played together on the 1992 Houston Oilers.

Job Security: Safe, fate tied to Munchak

Denver Broncos

13 of 33

Head Coach: John Fox

Fox will have more than a few years to find success in Denver. He could have finished this season with only two wins and still retain his job. However, he has found away to get this team in the hunt for a playoff berth.

Fox deserves some credit for the way he has handled the Tim Tebow situation. He has found a way to keep the team happy while also sticking on the side of management.

Is it just me, or is John Fox a magnet for controversial quarterback play?

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Mike McCoy

I feel there is no offensive coordinator doing more with less than McCoy. He has put himself on a list of possible head coaching candidates. McCoy has not only exceeded expectations, but he has had to completely change philosophies. There is a major difference between creating a game plan for Kyle Orton and Tim Tebow.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Dennis Allen

Allen is also doing an amazing job with limited talent. Heading into the season, everyone felt that the Broncos defense would be a trainwreck. However, Allen has found a way to utilize the little talent on the field. His biggest achievement is how he has found ways to utilize Von Miller.

I strongly believe that Allen will be a head coach next season. Current linebackers coach Richard Smith would be the prime candidate to replace Allen.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

Kansas City Chiefs

14 of 33

Head Coach: Todd Haley

Haley's chances of returning worsen by the week. He is supposed to be an offensive guru, but has failed to develop a dynamic unit. However, Haley isn't on the hot seat because of his team's play. It is because of his demeanor.

Haley is a very confrontational coach, and players only respond to that style when they are winning. I fully expect to see some player complaints to hit the air very soon.

Assistant head coach Maurice Carthon and defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel would be the likely replacements.

Job Security: Hot Seat

Offensive Coordinator: Bill Muir (Jim Zorn)

Firing Muir might be the only way Haley keeps his job. This scenario plays out very often, as a head coach will be forced to make staffing changes to save his job. Muir likely has little say in the offensive game planning. Haley is too controlling to allow someone else to have final say.

Quarterback's coach Zorn would be the likely replacement for Muir.

Job Security: Gone

Defensive Coordinator: Romeo Crennel

Crennel's defense is the only thing keeping games competitive. He has this unit playing at a high level despite constantly being on the field. Crennel is one of Scott Pioli's guys and sticks even if Haley is fired.

Job Security: Safe

Oakland Raiders

15 of 33

Head Coach: Hue Jackson

Jackson is the defacto face of the Oakland Raiders franchise. After the death of Al Davis, Jackson asserted himself into the decision-making process. Davis held Jackson in high regard, which gives him some unique power.

Even without Davis' support, Jackson has earned the right to remain as the coach of the Raiders. His team is playing great football.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Al Saunders

Al Saunders is making good use of all the Raiders offensive weapons. He does a great job drawing up plays to utilize the speed on the field. Saunders has even been able to make use out of Darius-Heyward Bey. His job is safe, and he doesn't appear to be a real head coaching candidate.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Chuck Bresnahan

Bresnahan's job is safe, as long as the Raiders make the playoffs. Oakland's defense has a lot of talent, but they aren't playing at a very high level. Bresnahan isn't doing enough to get fired, but if the axe must fall, he will get chopped.

Job Security: Safe, but most replaceable on the staff

San Diego Chargers

16 of 33

Head Coach: Norv Turner

Turner's tenure as the Chargers head coach is just about over. His seat was warm heading into the season and now is on fire. San Diego is just about out of the playoff picture, which is unacceptable for such a talented team.

Possible replacements for Turner include Rob Chudzinski and Greg Manusky. Chudzinski is currently the Panthers offensive coordinator and worked in San Diego last season. Manusky is the current defensive coordinator and is seen as a strong head coaching candidate.

Job Security: Gone

Offensive Coordinator: Clarence Shelmon

Shelmon has a good chance of remaining on the Chargers staff. San Diego's offense has not been the problem; it is more about consistency and focus. I could see GM A.J. Smith choosing a new head coach with ties to the current staff. This would allow Shelmon to stay and continue to run a productive offense.

Job Security: May return

Defensive Coordinator: Greg Manusky

There is a great chance that Manusky finishes the season as the interim head coach of the San Diego Chargers. The seat is very hot for Norv Turner, which could result in an in-season firing. This might actually be a wise move, because it would give A.J. Smith a chance to evaluate Manusky as a head coaching candidate.

Manusky will either return as the Chargers head coach or not at all. Steven Wilks would likely be Manusky's replacement.

Job Security: May return, head coaching candidate

Dallas Cowboys

17 of 33

Head Coach: Jason Garrett

The Dallas Cowboys are ascending, as is the stock of Garrett. His job is extremely safe. Garrett's no-nonsense approach has helped the Cowboys gain discipline. His ability to relate to his players keeps the locker room positive and focused. It also helps that he has the Cowboys offense running like a well-oiled machine.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: John Garrett (Passing), Hudson Houck (Rushing)

Garrett calls the offensive plays, but relies on John Garrett and Houck to assist. They work well as a team, and both have a solid job status.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Rob Ryan

Ryan will be a hot head coaching candidate during the offseason. He has established himself as an excellent defensive coordinator while also showing the savvy to handle the media. He might not land one of the top openings, but could be a good fit in Jacksonville.

Current secondary coach and former head coach Dave Campo would be Ryan's likely replacement.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

New York Giants

18 of 33

Head Coach: Tom Coughlin

New York is in the middle of yet another late season collapse. Coughlin will not be able to survive another non-playoff year. This would be his third season in a row without a playoff berth, and coaches have been fired for much less.

The Giants might need to win out to make the playoffs. That is a tall task with games against the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers.

New York will look to make a splash with Coughlin's replacement, maybe a Bill Cowher.

Job Security: Always on the hot seat

Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Gilbride

Gilbride has done a good job with this offense, but he will go if Coughlin is fired. Coughlin's questionable status is the only thing putting Gilbride on the hot seat. However, he will quickly find another job as an offensive coordinator. He might actually be able to land a head coaching gig.

If Cowher comes in, I feel that Mike Mularky could jump from Atlanta.

Job Security: Hot Seat, long shot head coach candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Perry Fewell

Perry Fewell will not be back next season. He will either get a head coaching gig, leave with Coughlin or be the scapegoat. Fewell will get more than a handful of head coaching interviews and is likely to land one. He is a bright defensive mind who has a strong personality.

If Coughlin is fired, an entirely new coaching staff will be brought in. However, if Coughlin returns, Fewell will take the fall for the team's struggles. Fewell is not to blame for the Giants defensive struggles. He has been able to hold together a group decimated by injuries.

Pittsburgh's linebacker coach Keith Buler would be the top candidate to join forces with Cowher.

Job Security: Gone, head coach candidate

Philadelphia Eagles

19 of 33

Head Coach: Andy Reid

Most fans are blinded by the present, which is why they are calling for Reid to be fired. Ultimately, Reid will not be back in Philadelphia because of media/fan pressure and this disappointing season. He is not only the coach, but also the main personal decision maker. Reid bares much of the blame for his disappointing season.

However, he should have built enough good will to keep his position. Reid has been one of the most successful coaches in Eagles history. Fans should appreciate that the Eagles are consistently in playoff contention.

If Reid is sent packing I think Brian Billick would be a good choice. He is an offensive minded guy, who has a ring on this finger.

Job Security: Hot Seat, unlikely to return

Offensive Coordinator: Marty Mornhinweg

Mornhinweg is an extremely bright offensive mind who has helped take the Eagles offense to new heights. However, his future is directly tied to Reid's job status. It appears doubtful that Reid returns, which means that Mornhinweg will also be moving on.

Mike Tice has connections to Billick, and is dying to get a coordinator position.

Job Security: Tied to Andy Reid's fate

Defensive Coordinator: Juan Castillo

Juan Castillo will be moving back to an offensive line coach next season, and it won't be with the Eagles. Castillo's experiment at defensive coordinator has been a failure. I fully expect Philadelphia to look for an established defensive coordinator with a lot of experience.

I could Steve Spagnuolo returning to Philadelphia if he is let go by the St. Louis Rams. If Brian Billick is the next head coach, Mike Nolan would be a realistic candidate.

Job Security: Gone

Washington Redskins

20 of 33

Head Coach: Mike Shanahan

Owner Dan Snyder brought in Mike Shanahan to make the Redskins competitive. He turned over much of the personal control to Shanahan, which has given him a lot of power. His job is safe because I anticipate Washington will draft a young quarterback. The drafting of a young quarterback typically gives the head coach a few extra years.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Kyle Shanahan

Kyle Shanahan is on the same footing as his father. He will remain as the offensive coordinator until Mike Shanahan is fired or he earns his own head coaching spot. I don't forsee either happening anytime soon, so Kyle will be in D.C. for awhile.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Jim Haslett

Haslett will likely return to the Redskins unless he is offered a head coaching job. He might find himself with more than a few interviews. I see Haslett as a very safe head coaching hire. He has head coaching experience and does a great job with defenses.

Any team looking to make a safe and non-flashy hire will consider Haslett. The San Diego Chargers could be very interested.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

Chicago Bears

21 of 33

Head Coach: Lovie Smith

Last season's NFC Championship game appearance has Smith on very solid footing. He recently signed a two-year contract extension, which keeps him under contract until 2013. Smith is one of the more underrated coaches in the NFL. His Bears teams always seem to get the most out of the talent on the field.

I want to let it be known that I am a Bears fan, which might sway my opinion a little. However, I always make a point to be unbiased.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Mike Martz

Mike Martz's job status changes every week. He is just that type of person and play caller. His brashness results in several head-scratching plays per game. This is the type of thing that drives head coaches and management crazy.

However, I think Martz's situation in Chicago is one of the most stable of his career.

Job Security: Always on the hot seat

Defensive Coordinator: Rod Marinelli

Rod Marinelli isn't going anywhere and will stick as long as Lovie does. He had his shot as a head coach, failed and is content as the Bears defensive coordinator. Marinelli's play calling and schemes have helped restore the Bears defense. He has also overseen the development of rising players like Henry Melton.

Job Security: Safe

Detroit Lions

22 of 33

Head Coach: Jim Schwartz

Schwartz is one of the key pieces in the Lions' attempt to rebuild. He brings an attitude to this team that keeps them motivated. Schwartz is supported by his players and management, making his job status very safe.

Detroit is improving at a good rate and appears to be right on schedule. This speaks volumes about the coaching job done by Schwartz.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Scott Linehan

Scott Linehan's job is safe because of last season's performance and is only more solid after this season. Last season, the Lions offense was able to find some success without Matthew Stafford. Linehan has shown this season he is capable of big things with a full complement of players.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Gunther Cunningham

Gunther Cunningham is content being a defensive coordinator, which makes the Lions very pleased. He is an excellent defensive coach and will be welcomed in Detroit as long as he is willing to coach. Cunningham's defense is quickly earning a reputation as one of the top units in the NFL.

Job Security: Safe

Green Bay Packers

23 of 33

Head Coach: Mike McCarthy

McCarthy is coming off a Super Bowl victory and is on solid ground. He is in absolutely no danger of losing his job. McCarthy is considered one of the top coaches in the entire NFL and an excellent offensive mind.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Joe Philbin

Joe Philbin will be an attractive head coaching candidate this offseason. I fully expect to see him land one of the head coaching vacancies. He is attractive because he oversees one of the leagues top offenses while also helping develop Aaron Rodgers.

Quarterback's coach Tom Clements would be Philbin's replacement.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Dom Capers

The Green Bay Packers will not willingly make any coaching changes, including Dom Capers. His defense isn't performing at a high level, but most feel they will eventually figure things out. Capers' attacking style is a perfect complement to Green Bay's offensive style.

Job Security: Safe

Minnesota Vikings

24 of 33

Head Coach: Leslie Frazier

The assumption is that there will be some coaching changes in Minnesota, but Frazier will keep his job. Frazier has long been a head coaching candidate and deserves more than one season at the helm. This Vikings team isn't exactly loaded with talent, which provides Frazier with some leeway.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Bill Musgrave

Musgrave will be one of the many head coaching candidates for next season, but will return to Minnesota. He has been on the head coaching track for several years. However, the Vikings' offensive struggles this season has cooled this stock.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Fred Pagac

Pagac is very unlikely to return next season. He has recently seen his play calling duties reduced, which is usually a sign of things to come. Frazier has a very capable and familiar in-house replacement candidate, Mike Singletary. Frazier and Singletary played together as members of the Chicago Bears defense.

Job Security: Hot Seat

Atlanta Falcons

25 of 33

Head Coach: Mike Smith

Smith has earned a ton of good will in Atlanta. His ability to quickly turn around a struggling franchise gives him a lot of leeway. Smith is one of the better coaches in the NFL and is nowhere near the hot seat.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Mike Mularkey

Mike Mularkey is on solid footing. The Atlanta Falcons offense is a model for balance and consistency. Mularkey does a great job mixing the run and pass. He also has a great relationship with Matt Ryan, something that only helps his job status.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Brian VanGorder

Like the rest of the Falcons coaching staff, Brian VanGorder is in no danger of losing his position. His defense continues to make solid steps forward. This unit is not loaded with top level talent, but continues to find ways to produce. VanGorder isn't a head coaching candidate right now, but could be after another season or two.

Job Security: Safe

Carolina Panthers

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Head Coach: Ron Rivera

First-year head coaches are rarely fired, and Rivera will not be one of those rare occasions. Rivera took over a Carolina Panthers team that had very limited talent. He will be given plenty of opportunity to bring in new personnel and put his stamp on this team.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Rob Chudzinski

Chudzinski will very likely land a head coaching job next season. He has been a long time coordinator who has routinely found success. This year's quick development and utilization of Cam Newton has only helped his reputation.

Quarterbacks coach Mike Shula would be a good internal replacement for Chudzinski.

Job Security: Safe, head coaching candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Sean McDermott

McDermott will get to stick around until the defensive personal is improved. At one time, McDermott was seen as one of the brightest assistance in the league. However, his stock dropped after a sub-par performance as the Eagles defensive coordinator. He is a talented coach who still has a bright future.

Job Security: Safe

New Orleans Saints

27 of 33

Head Coach: Sean Payton

Payton is successful, runs an exciting offense and has the loyalty of the fanbase. His job is as safe as anyone's in the NFL. The Saints management will face a major backlash if they even consider replacing Payton.

Job Security: Very Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Pete Carmichael, Jr.

Carmichael will get some head coaching interviews during the offseason, but will eventually return to New Orleans. Carmichael is a legitimate head coaching candidate, but might get past over this year. He has an excellent offensive mind. Payton and Carmichael have worked together for several years and are responsible for the explosive Saints offense.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Defensive Coordinator: Gregg Williams

Williams was nearly hired as the head coach of the Denver Broncos last season. I highly doubt he makes it through this offseason without a head coaching position. Williams is known for his aggressive style of defense. He has strong leadership skills and previous head coaching experience with the Buffalo Bills.

Assistant head coach Joe Vitt would be the the likely replacement at defensive coordinator.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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Head Coach: Raheem Morris

Morris is a very popular coach and will remain in his current position. He has the support of his players and has kept the team competitive. Morris is the best person to be in charge of such a young roster.

However, the sting of this recent five-game losing streak will be hard to shake. Tampa Bay's success in 2010 raised expectations, making this season a disappointment.

Job Security: Safe, but getting warmer

Offensive Coordinator: Greg Olson

Tampa Bay's recent losing streak has warmed the seat for everyone. Olson's seat is definitely the hottest. The Buccaneers could lose at least three more games, making some changes necessary. Josh Freeman has taken a step back this season, which also doesn't bode well for Olson.

Olson's replacement will be an established offensive coordinator, likely off a team that clears house. I would say that a Marty Mornhinweg, Kevin Gilbride and Clarence Shelmon would be the best candidates.

Current Colts head coach Jim Caldwell might be another option.

Job Security: Hot Seat

Defensive Coordinator: Raheem Morris

Morris is currently calling the defensive plays. This unit is not performing at a high level and a defensive coordinator needs to be brought in. I could see someone like the recently fired Larry Coyer coming in to assist Morris. Coyer has ties to the Buccaneers and Tampa-2 system.

Job Security: Hot Seat

Arizona Cardinals

29 of 33

Head Coach: Ken Whisenhunt

Whisenhunt will be back next season, but will be officially on the hot seat. He needs a real strong finish to not start next season with questions surrounding this future. This will be back-to-back seasons without a playoff berth; a third will likely mean the end of his time in Arizona.

This would be a good landing spot for Denver's Dennis Allen, if Whisenhunt is let go.

Job Security: Seat is getting warm

Offensive Coordinator: Mike Miller

Miller was just promoted to offensive coordinator. He will remain on staff as long as Whisenhunt is the head coach.

Job Security: Fate tied to Whisenhunt

Defensive Coordinator: Ray Horton

Whisenhunt felt very strongly about adding Horton to his staff. This is Horton's first year as defensive coordinator and will be given more that one season to prove himself.

Job Security: Fate tied to Whisenhunt

St. Louis Rams

30 of 33

Head Coach: Steve Spagnuolo

NFL head coaches usually get about three or four seasons to find success. Spagnuolo is in his third season and has yet to find consistent success. He is job is in serious jeopardy, and it might take only one embarrassing loss to end his run.

Spagnuolo's job might be a casualty of last year's surprise success. It raised expectations, which they have failed to live up meet.

Green Bay's Joe Philbin and New Orleans' Pete Carmichael, Jr. would be my top choices to replace Spagnuolo. Both guys would bring the capabilities to continue Sam Bradford's development.

Job Security: Hot seat

Offensive Coordinator: Josh McDaniels

I have a hard time seeing a scenario where McDaniels is brought back. He was expected to come in and help build off of last season's success. However, the offense has been a complete disaster. McDaniels will ultimately lose his job because of Sam Bradford's sophomore slump.

St. Louis cannot allow their franchise quarterback to become damaged. Whether or not its McDaniels' fault, he needs to go.

I could see Philadelphia Eagles quarterback coach Doug Pederson getting a shot at this position if Spagnuolo is retained.

Job Security: Gone

Defensive Coordinator: Ken Flajole

The only way I see Spagnuolo keeping his job is if completely cleans house. This means finding new offensive and defensive coordinators. Flajole may not deserved to be fired, but he will get the brunt of the blame for the defensive struggles.

Job Security: Gone

San Francisco 49ers

31 of 33

Head Coach: Jim Harbaugh

Harbaugh just received a big contract to leave Stanford and coach the San Francisco 49ers. He has held up his end of the bargain, leading the 49ers to a 9-2 start. Harbaugh's position is very safe.

Job Security: Very Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Greg Roman

Roman followed Harbaugh from Stanford and has no worries about his job status. He is two or three strong seasons away from being considered a head coaching candidate.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Vic Fangio

Vic Fangio also followed Harbaugh from Stanford. He has found instant success with this team, and many feel he is a strong head coaching candidate. Fangio took a decent 49ers defense and made them one of the top in the NFL.

Current Defensive line coach Jim Tomsula would be the next in line if Fangio gets a head coaching position.

Job Security: Safe, head coach candidate

Seattle Seahawks

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Head Coach: Pete Carroll

Carroll has a few more years to turn things around in Seattle. He was given a big contract and the title of Vice President of Football Operations. Carroll has a lot of clout in Seattle, which will keep him around for awhile.

Job Security: Safe

Offensive Coordinator: Darrell Bevell

The numbers aren't a good indication of how successful Bevell has been. He is attempting to run an offense with limited talent at the quarterback position. I fully expect Bevell to get a good young quarterback to work with through the draft. Bevell will be back next season.

Job Security: Safe

Defensive Coordinator: Case Bradley

Time is running out for Bradley. He wasn't selected by Pete Carroll to be his defensive coordinator. Bradley was a holdover from the previous staff. I full expect Bradley to get the boot in the offseason. His replacement will likely be Ken Norton Jr., who is one of Carroll's trusted assistants.

Job Security: Hot Seat