The NFL’s hiring season is in full swing. It has gained momentum since January 22 when teams could commence in-person interviews with coaching candidates from playoff teams. With eight head coaching positions up for grabs in the 2023 cycle, the vacancies arose in various ways. This includes mid-season dismissals and post-regular season decisions.

Teams like the Panthers, Chargers, and Raiders initiated changes during the season. Now they’re by the Falcons, Titans, Commanders, Patriots, and surprisingly, the Seahawks, all seeking a new coaching direction. However, amidst this cycle, two big names are coming up that can potentially make an entry to the Washington Commanders and the Seattle Seahawks, respectively.

Ben Johnson and Mike Macdonald are part of the hiring cycle

In 2022, Ben Johnson, part of the Lions’ coaching staff, got an up-close look at young talent during the Senior Bowl. Now, with the Commanders and Seahawks seeking head coaches, Johnson is a key contender, set for an interview in Detroit. On Tuesday, both the Commanders and Seahawks are set for another crucial step in their head coach searches. The spotlight also turns to Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, a 36-year-old coaching sensation.

The Ravens not only led the league in the fewest points allowed but also topped the charts in sacks and takeaways this season. Famous Sportswriter Ian Rapoport has given his verdict about the two coaches. He said, “My understanding is [Ben Johnson] is a really strong candidate with Commanders, and has been this entire time. I wouldn’t say right now he’s the favorite like a lot of people think. Just one of several really good candidates that they like.”

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Furthermore, Macdonald said, “My understanding with Seattle is, there’s a lot to like here. In fact, had the Ravens won, Seattle would’ve been willing to wait until after the Super Bowl just to speak with him. Obviously nothing is done, just I’d say there’s a mutual interest there for Seattle and for Macdonald.” Furthermore, this year’s coaching cycle is doing wonders and making headlines. Much recently, something happened that has never happened in the NFL before.

NFL is taking an extra step towards diversity

Thursday brought a significant shift in the NFL coaching landscape with notable hirings. As per the USA Today, the Carolina Panthers secured Dave Canales as their head coach, while the Atlanta Falcons opted for Raheem Morris. Alongside these moves, Jerod Mayo of the New England Patriots and Antonio Pierce of the Las Vegas Raiders also entered the spotlight. Notably, this coaching cycle witnessed the hiring of four men of color, marking a record in the NFL.

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This was revealed by data from USA TODAY Sports’ NFL Coaches Project. Now, the director of The Institute of Diversity and Ethics in Sports and author of this year’s NFL report card on hiring, Adrien Bouchet said, “It’s tremendously significant. Two years ago, we were talking about how we couldn’t get the number to move up. This year, it seems like it’s moved the needle pretty well. I think it’s a big deal and should be treated as such.”

So, they’ve been trying to inculcate diversity in the league, however, they’ve still got a long way to go. But, there’s some progress and hopefully it’ll continue going forward. What are your thoughts about this? Tell us in the comments section.

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