Black Monday: Which NFL coaches are on the way out?

A few months ago, few would've predicted Chicago's Lovie Smith, left, and Detroit's Jim Schwartz would be on the coaching hot seat. (Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez, Detroit Free Press)

Story Highlights
  • Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid could end up in San Diego
  • If Pat Shurmur is fired in Cleveland, will Chip Kelly move up to the NFL here?
  • With no contract talks, Bears coach Lovie Smith appears to be in danger

    Before this season, it was difficult to imagine there'd be a lot of coaching changeover. Not with all of these coaches in their first or second years, as well as many having experienced success in recent years.

    But this is the NFL.

    The win-now mentality, combined with an unprecedented shift in front-office types, could result in roughly 10 head-coaching firings on Black Monday and beyond. One executive predicted a possible "seismic shift in the NFL" — with coaches and assistants moving between NFL teams and (with the strong rumblings of Oregon's Chip Kelly getting into the mix) between the college and pro ranks.

    Here's a look at the coaches on the hot seat, as well as some who are already reported to be on their way out:

    Andy Reid, Philadelphia Eagles

    The season unraveled so early that the Eagles' fan base never had a chance to get to the point of appreciating the Reid era before he left town.

    Reason to fire: It's time. We all know it.

    Reason to keep: Well, because he's still probably going to be a good coach for a long time. But again, somewhere else.

    Leading candidate: We've been hearing the Chip Kelly stuff all along, too. But keep an ear out for Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, who is regarded highly in the Eagles' building.


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