As the NFL season heads into its critical final stretch, the stakes are rising dramatically—not just for teams vying for playoff positioning or better draft spots, but also for individual players and coaches whose performances in these remaining weeks could shape their futures in the league. With so much on the line, it’s worth taking a closer look at some of the key figures in the NFL who have the most to gain or lose as the season wraps up. For clarity, these individuals can be grouped into three categories: coaches, quarterbacks, and other notable players.
### Coaches on the Hot Seat
Several NFL coaches find themselves under intense scrutiny as the season winds down, with their job security hanging in the balance depending on how their teams perform.
Brian Flores, the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, appears to be relatively safe for the remainder of the season. Reports suggest that Dolphins ownership is keen on retaining him beyond this year. However, the relationship between the front office and coaching staff isn’t entirely settled. The eventual hiring of a new general manager could lead to a shift in direction, potentially impacting Flores’s future. How the Dolphins perform in the closing weeks could be a significant factor in that decision.
The Cleveland Browns remain mired in turmoil, with a dismal 5-22 record over the past two seasons. Despite expectations for a rough year, the ongoing struggles have only heightened speculation that the franchise might seek a coaching change in the offseason. Kevin Stefanski, the Browns’ head coach, may also consider pursuing other opportunities if the team’s bleak outlook persists. The combination of poor team performance and a challenging environment makes the Browns one of the most unstable coaching situations in the league.
Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders present a troubling picture. Their offense in particular has been a mess, characterized by poor blocking, a lack of a coherent plan to utilize their best players, and a failed experiment with quarterback Geno Smith. While the Raiders’ front office, led by John Spytek, reportedly holds confidence in the current coaching staff, it’s hard to envision long-term patience if the team’s struggles continue. Head coach Josh McDaniels, the oldest coach in the league, could face replacement if the season ends in disappointment.
Another coach facing pressure is Arthur Smith of the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons have regressed significantly from their previous season, and Smith’s limited track record of success as a head coach does little to inspire confidence. Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot is also under scrutiny, and if the team’s slide results in a top-five draft pick—one that is likely to go to the Rams due to trades—changes in the coaching staff could follow.
### Quarterbacks at a Crossroads
Quarterbacks often carry the weight of their teams’ fortunes, and several signal-callers are currently navigating critical junctures in their careers.
Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins has had a rollercoaster season. Once the league’s leader in passing yards just two years ago, Tagovailoa now leads the NFL in interceptions this year. His yards per attempt have sharply declined since his career peak in 2022. Despite his massive contract, the Dolphins face a complex decision. Cutting him would not save much money, but trading him could provide some salary cap relief. His performance down the stretch will heavily influence Miami’s plans moving forward.
In Indianapolis, quarterback Anthony Richardson is under close watch. The Colts made significant investments recently, trading two first-round picks for cornerback Sauce Gardner and expressing a desire to extend Richardson’s contract. However, recent weeks have shown signs of regression, with growing issues related to sacks, fumbles, and interceptions. If these problems persist, the Colts may reconsider their commitment, similar to the situation Minnesota faced with Sam Darnold last season. Though the Colts lack a ready-made replacement like Mike McCarthy, Richardson’s ability to stabilize will be crucial to securing a lucrative contract.
Mike McCarthy, who took over the Minnesota Vikings just five games into the season, has faced a harsh welcome. The Vikings’ decision to move on from Sam Darnold and hand the reins to McCarthy appears to have been premature, given the team’s struggles. The coming weeks offer McCarthy a chance to prove the team’s faith was justified, but continued poor results could lead to a quick exit for the veteran coach, an unusual but not impossible outcome.
For the Atlanta Falcons, quarterback Kirk Cousins is entering a pivotal phase. He is set to start in the final