Applying the 'opposites attract' idea to the 2026 NFL coaching cycle

Cbssports examines a recurring pattern in NFL head-coaching searches: teams often target candidates whose backgrounds are the opposite of the coaches they fired, and it applies that "opposites attract" theory to the 2026 coaching cycle. The analysis notes a recent trend of hiring young offensive minds associated with Sean McVay or Kyle Shanahan and highlights the New York Giants finalizing a deal for former Ravens coach John Harbaugh as a unique case.

Harbaugh's résumé is primarily special teams, while the Giants fired Brian Daboll, a former offensive coach and first-year head coach, to hire a veteran with some defensive experience — an example the piece says affirms the theory. The article outlines opposite-candidate pairings for the other vacancies.

Examples cited include Atlanta, which fired Raheem Morris and is linked to Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak as an offensive opposite; Cleveland, where reports indicate Jim Schwartz will receive a second interview as a defensive option to replace Kevin Stefanski; and Miami, where Robert Saleh is the only interviewed candidate who fits the veteran defensive profile after Mike McDaniel's departure.

Key Topics

Sports, Nfl, John Harbaugh, New York Giants, Brian Daboll, Sean Mcvay