The NFL is a league of constant change and turnover, making it an ideal environment for assistant coaches to shine and potentially break out in 2026. This article highlights several assistant coaches who could make a significant impact on their respective teams and the league as a whole. From tight ends specialists to defensive coordinators, these individuals bring unique skills and experiences that could shape their teams' success.
Arizona Cardinals: Jake Moreland, Tight Ends
Jake Moreland's experience with tight end-friendly offensive systems and his pro track record make him a standout candidate. With star tight end Trey McBride and a deep position room, Moreland could have an early impact on the Cardinals' offense.
Atlanta Falcons: Tommy Rees, Offensive Coordinator
Rees, a former tight ends and passing game specialist, joins the Falcons' staff after working with new coach Kevin Stefanski. With exciting skill players and big questions at quarterback, Rees' potential is high.
Baltimore Ravens: Declan Doyle, Offensive Coordinator
Doyle, from the Sean Payton coaching tree, enters his first season as the Ravens' OC. His potential is high when paired with versatile top quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP.
Buffalo Bills: Jim Leonhard, Defensive Coordinator
Leonhard, who helped coach one of the best defenses in football under Vance Joseph, is a big hire for first-year coach Joe Brady. His experience and potential as a defensive coordinator are notable.
Carolina Panthers: Ejiro Evero, Defensive Coordinator
Evero, who has drawn interest for head coaching vacancies, has been rebuilding the Panthers' defense. With a successful secondary in 2025 and added talent, Evero's impact could be significant.
Chicago Bears: Jim Dray, Tight Ends
Dray, retained from the Matt Eberflus-era staff, will coach one of the most talented position rooms in the NFL, featuring Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland.
Cincinnati Bengals: Dan Pitcher, Offensive Coordinator
Pitcher has drawn interest for head coach and offensive coordinator positions. With an active offseason, he could receive an even larger spotlight as the Bengals aim to maximize quarterback Joe Burrow's prime.
Cleveland Browns: Mike Rutenberg, Defensive Coordinator
Rutenberg, a key assistant for the 2025 Atlanta Falcons defense, will develop a group of mostly young players in Cleveland. His teaching ability and schematic roots make him a subject of interest.
Dallas Cowboys: Klayton Adams, OC and Christian Parker, DC
Adams and Parker, an exciting coordinator tandem, combine modern run concepts with a high-potential passing game and a true threat defense.
Denver Broncos: Davis Webb, Offensive Coordinator
Webb, who has drawn head coaching interest, is sharp and confident taking on offensive play calling. The pressure of head coach Sean Payton's presence is no small thing, but Webb is believed to be up to the challenge.
Detroit Lions: Kelvin Sheppard, Defensive Coordinator
Sheppard, with energy and buy-in from players, is set up for a bounce-back 2026 season with the Lions' defense.
Green Bay Packers: DeMarcus Covington, Outside LBs/Run Game Coordinator/Assistant Head Coach
Covington, with a strong coaching background, was retained by new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. His interest in defensive coordinator openings and the Packers' defense make him a notable figure.
Houston Texans: Nick Caley, OC and Matt Burke, DC
Caley's offense is expected to take another step forward, while Burke excelled in defensive play calling last season. The Texans' lofty expectations make this duo interesting to study.
Indianapolis Colts: Alex Tanney, Passing Game Coordinator
Tanney, who worked with head coach Shane Steichen, has become an extremely valuable assistant. His behind-the-scenes role in Daniel Jones' career season is notable.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Grant Udinski, Offensive Coordinator
Udinski, with a successful stint with the Vikings and coach Kevin O'Connell, received a contract extension in Jacksonville. His work ethic and attention to detail are praised.
Kansas City Chiefs: Joe Bleymaier, Passing Game Coordinator
Bleymaier, who has also coached receivers and quarterbacks, is described as the 'secret sauce' in the Chiefs' building. His role in the team's success is significant.
Las Vegas Raiders: Luke Steckel, Tight Ends
Steckel, retained by new head coach Klint Kubiak, will play a crucial role in the Raiders' offensive system, which uses multiple tight ends.
Los Angeles Chargers: Chris O'Leary, Defensive Coordinator
O'Leary, a former Chargers assistant, is taking over for Jesse Minter. His own stamp on the defensive system is expected.
Los Angeles Rams: Nate Scheelhaase, OC and Chris Shula, DC
Scheelhaase, entering his first season as the Rams' offensive coordinator, and Shula, entering his third, face Super Bowl expectations. Their talent-packed offense and defense are under scrutiny.
Miami Dolphins: Sean Duggan, Defensive Coordinator
Duggan, a coordinator for the first time at the pro level, worked with head coach Jeff Hafley at Boston College. His potential is notable as the Dolphins rebuild.
Minnesota Vikings: Josh McCown, Quarterbacks
McCown, who drew buzz at league meetings, will be under scrutiny with the addition of Kyler Murray and JJ McCarthy. His potential is high.
New England Patriots: Zak Kuhr, Defensive Coordinator
Kuhr, who excelled in his role, earned the full-time job in the offseason. His potential as a defensive coordinator is shocking.
New Orleans Saints: Terry Joseph, Defensive Pass Game Coordinator
Joseph, who played a large role in the Saints' defense's transformation, is a key figure in Brandon Staley's system.
New York Giants: Charlie Bullen, Outside Linebackers/Run Game Coordinator
Bullen, retained from the previous coaching regime, has an expanded role as run game coordinator. His position group is talented, and he has the opportunity to show his impact.
New York Jets: Chris Banjo, Special Teams Coordinator
Banjo, described as a future head coach, received universal approval from players and fans. His special teams' success is notable.
Philadelphia Eagles: Joe Kasper, Defensive Pass Game Coordinator
Kasper, a Fangio disciple, is poised for a bigger role with the Eagles' defense. His ability to implement Fangio's ideas is significant.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Patrick Graham, Defensive Coordinator
Graham, a respected assistant, took over a high-ceiling defense in Pittsburgh. His schematic arsenal and potential as a head coach make him an exciting figure.
San Francisco 49ers: Klay Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator
Klay Kubiak, who worked his way up in the 49ers' system, is Mike Shanahan's offensive coordinator. His path is similar to his brother's, now-Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak.
Seattle Seahawks: Aden Durde, Defensive Coordinator
Durde, praised for his expertise and collaborative attitude, is a key figure in Mike Macdonald's system.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chandler Whitmer, Quarterbacks
Whitmer, who worked with College Football Playoff champion Indiana, will draw attention with the Bucs' quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Tennessee Titans: Dalton Hilliard, Defensive Backs/Nickels
Hilliard, in his first NFL coaching season, specializes in nickel players. His role in the Titans' defensive staff is innovative.
Washington Commanders: David Blough, OC and Daronte Jones, DC
Blough and Jones, first-year coordinators, face pressure after a down year for Washington. Their roles as play-callers are significant.
