NFL hot seat watch: 5 defensive coordinators who could become head coaches in 2023

An NFC Championship Game appearance probably gets Jonathan Gannon a job

As with Lou Anarumo, it will probably happen at some point for Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. However, Gannon does have two things going for him that Anarumo does not: Youthfulness and a bigger NFL team brand. Gannon will only be 40 next season. The fact he is coordinating the team with the best record in the league is a big boost towards his chances.

Gannon was first introduced in the head-coaching carousel last cycle, as he was up for the gig in Houston. Heck, he might get it if the Texans want to go one-and-done, back-to-back. Truthfully, if the Eagles hold serve and get to at least the NFC Championship Game, Gannon will be somebody’s next head coach in 2023. As far as fit is concerned, that remains to be seen, but he is a candidate.

Gannon could not have a better entry point as a first-time head coach than what he has right now.

It is all about the right situation for Don “Wink” Martindale to take over a team

Even if the New York Giants fade down the stretch, their incredible first half, coupled with Don “Wink” Martindale’s run leading the Baltimore Ravens defense will make him a candidate at least for a few jobs. Had the league not gone so overly heavy on offensive minds in recent years, Martindale would probably be leading a team right now. He is the next Vic Fangio, in some regards.

While it remains to be seen how good of an NFL head coach he will be, Martindale has at least earned the opportunity to be one. I think the fact he spent so many years working for a first-class organization in Baltimore only serves him. Although that type of job may not be readily available to him as a first-time head coach, his new team would thrive off his ability to build a winning culture.

Martindale would probably do better in Indianapolis than in Carolina, but other jobs will open up.