The 2026 offseason NFL future odds market is busy with evaluations of the coaching carousel. In sum, 10 teams brought in new head coaches after the previous year.
The Arizona Cardinals went with Mike LaFleur, who had been the Rams’ offensive coordinator. The Atlanta Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski after his time with the Browns. And then for the Baltimore Ravens, it was Jesse Minter coming over from the Chargers’ defensive coordinator spot.
The Buffalo Bills promoted their own offensive coordinator Joe Brady to the top job. The Cleveland Browns turned to Todd Monken, formerly the Ravens’ offensive coordinator. In turn, the Las Vegas Raiders chose Klint Kubiak out of the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator role.
The Miami Dolphins brought in Jeff Hafley, a former coordinator and college head coach. Namely, the New York Giants made a notable move, landing John Harbaugh, who had long led the Ravens. The Pittsburgh Steelers went with experienced coach Mike McCarthy, who returned from retirement. And then the Tennessee Titans hired Robert Saleh after his time as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator.
These hires included up-and-coming coordinators, proven former head coaches, and some internal promotions. Specifically, it reflects a range of sports betting strategies across the league. Early reactions and grades favored several of the more experienced names, such as Harbaugh, Stefanski, and Saleh. The full picture will play out over the course of the season.
2026 Futures -New Head Coaches
John Harbaugh Brings the Best Resume and Giant Credibility
John Harbaugh appears to be a strong stylistic and cultural fit for the Giants heading into the 2026 season. Following nearly two decades of stability and NFL betting success in Baltimore. Including a Super Bowl, he brings proven leadership experience that the franchise has lacked in recent years following a string of disappointing campaigns.
Early signs from the offseason have been positive, with reports of a noticeable shift in energy and belief around the building. Players have described practices under him as demanding yet purposeful. Hence, there’s talk of a different confidence level taking hold as he emphasizes toughness, accountability, and a physical brand of football. His draft approach reinforced that by targeting bigger, longer, and more physical players who align with how he wants the team to compete. Especially in the tough NFC East division.
On the personnel side, he has assembled a solid staff. Including Matt Nagy on offense and Dennard Wilson on defense, while maintaining continuity where it makes sense with general manager Joe Schoen. The focus has been on building around young quarterback Jaxson Dart. Related, there is an emphasis on the trenches and creating a more competitive roster identity. Also, Harbaugh’s history of developing undrafted talent and special teams excellence gives the Giants tools they have not had consistently.
Of course, it is still very early, with the regular season months away and plenty of unknowns around how quickly the turnaround can happen. Preseason games will offer the first real tests. But the initial fit appears promising for a franchise hungry for stability and sustained success. Expectations are rising for a push toward relevance, if not the playoffs. In turn, Harbaugh’s track record suggests he is well-equipped to drive that kind of change.
Overall, the prevailing view is that Harbaugh’s presence and offseason additions should push the Giants toward their first winning record in years. Specifically, Wise Guys see Big Blue potentially landing in the 8-9 range. However, variance around quarterback play and defensive rebuilding leaves room for outcomes from 6-11 up to 10-7 in less bullish scenarios. Training camp and preseason will further sharpen these expectations.