Ravens Request To Interview Chiefs’ Joe Cullen For DC
The more things change the more they seem to stay the same. After the Ravens hired a former staffer to their head coaching role, they’re now seeking to interview another former staffer for their defensive coordinator role. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the team requested to interview Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen for their open defensive coordinator position. 
Cullen is very familiar with the franchise in Baltimore; he spent five seasons as the team’s defensive line coach before landing his first NFL defensive coordinator job. Immediately following the end of his playing career as a star nose guard at UMass, Cullen began his coaching career in 1990, working with the Minutemen’s running backs for a year before taking on oversight of their defensive line.
He then became a bit of an NCAA journeyman, spending time as a defensive line coach at Richmond, LSU, Memphis, and Indiana and earning short-lived promotions to defensive coordinator for the Spiders and Hoosiers. He only served three non-consecutive seasons as Richmond’s defensive coordinator and a single year as coordinator at Indiana. After that lone year with the Hoosiers, he rebounded as a defensive assistant at Illinois before accepting his first NFL coaching position.
Cullen’s NFL start came with the Lions in 2006. When the staff was let go after becoming the first team to go 0-16 in 2008, he rebounded by coaching d-line for a year at Idaho State before returning to the ranks of the NFL. Upon his return, he coached d-lines at Jacksonville for three years, Cleveland for a year, and Tampa Bay for two years before landing in Baltimore.
Cullen’s stint with the Ravens was the longest-tenured job he’s held in his career. He started in Baltimore with a young defensive line featuring Brandon Williams, Timmy Jernigan, Michael Pierce, Brent Urban, and Lawrence Guy, and by his last year with the team in 2020, he was working with Calais Campbell, Derek Wolfe, and Nnamdi Madubuike. Over that span of time, the Ravens never finished outside the top 10 defenses in points allowed and only once finished outside the top 10 in total yards allowed.
His success with the Ravens led to his first defensive coordinator opportunity in the NFL, but unfortunately, that opportunity came under Urban Meyer. Following Meyer’s early exit from Duval, Cullen returned to position coaching and has been in Kansas City ever since, working with one of the league’s most dominant defensive lineman over the years in Chris Jones.
Cullen’s time in Baltimore coincided with new head coach Jesse Minter‘s four-year stay as a Ravens defensive coach. Cullen’s history as a defensive coordinator hasn’t ever extended past even two years, but with Minter likely to still be a heavy influence on that side of the ball, Cullen’s role as coordinator may be a bit more manageable for him than it has been in the past. The Ravens moved on from long-time head coach John Harbaugh, but in searching for the coaches to reestablish the team’s defensive identity, Baltimore has looked to some familiar faces.
Cullen becomes the first name mentioned for the defensive coordinator position in Baltimore. The Ravens’ coordinator of the last two years, Zach Orr, is technically still under contract with the team, but after needing a perfect back half of the season just to finish as a top 10 defensive in his first year as DC and finishing 18th in points allowed and 24th in yards allowed this year, he’s not expected to be retained. He was requested to interview today with the Chargers for the DC position that opened with Baltimore’s hiring of Minter.
2026 NFL Offensive/Defensive Coordinator Search Tracker
The 2026 head coaching carousel has now seen 10 jobs open since the start of the offseason, as the Bills have fired Sean McDermott. HC firings generally lead to coordinator changes, and several other teams have proceeded with OC or DC moves to start their offseasons. Here are the current OC and DC searches transpiring. As the remaining HC searches conclude, more coordinator searches will be added to this list.
Updated 1-30-26 (3:30pm CT)
Offensive Coordinators
Atlanta Falcons (Out: Zac Robinson)
- Bryan McClendon, wide receivers coach (Buccaneers): Interview requested
- Tommy Rees, offensive coordinator (Browns): Hired
- Drew Terrell, wide receivers coach (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/20
Baltimore Ravens (Out: Todd Monken)
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): Mentioned as candidate
- Declan Doyle, offensive coordinator (Bears): Hire expected
- Kliff Kingsbury, former offensive coordinator (Commanders): Interviewed 1/12
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): Mentioned as candidate
- Scottie Montgomery, wide receivers coach (Lions): To interview
- Davis Webb, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Interview requested
Denver Broncos (Out: Joe Lombardi)
- Ronald Curry, quarterbacks coach (Bills): Interviewed
Detroit Lions (Out: John Morton)
- David Blough, quarterbacks coach (Commanders): Mentioned as candidate; promoted to Washington OC
- Mike Kafka, former interim head coach (Giants): Interviewed 1/14
- Tee Martin, quarterbacks coach (Ravens): Interviewed
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/13
- Jake Peetz, pass-game coordinator (Seahawks): Interviewed
- Drew Petzing, former offensive coordinator (Cardinals): Hired
- Zac Robinson, offensive coordinator (Falcons): Interviewed 1/15
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interview requested
Kansas City Chiefs (Out: Matt Nagy)
- Eric Bieniemy, running backs coach (Bears): Rehired
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Greg Roman)
- Marcus Brady, pass-game coordinator (Chargers): Interviewed 1/15
- Brian Callahan, former head coach (Titans): Interviewed 1/16
- Brian Daboll, former head coach (Giants): To interview
- Shane Day, quarterbacks coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/15
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): Hired
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interviewed 1/19
- Drew Terrell, wide receivers coach (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/19
- Davis Webb, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Rumored candidate
Miami Dolphins (Out: Frank Smith)
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Interview requested
- Bobby Slowik, passing game coordinator (Dolphins): Promoted
New York Giants (Out: Mike Kafka)
- Jim Bob Cooter, offensive coordinator (Colts): To interview 2/1
- Shane Day, quarterbacks coach (Chargers): To interview
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Hire expected
- Robert Prince, wide receivers coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/23
- Willie Taggart, running backs coach (Ravens): Joining staff in different capacity
- Alex Tanney, pass-game coordinator (Colts): To interview 1/30
- Davis Webb, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Interview requested
- Charlie Weis Jr., offensive coordinator (LSU): Mentioned as candidate
New York Jets (Out: Tanner Engstrand)
- Darrell Bevell, passing game coordinator (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/28
- Ronald Curry, quarterbacks coach (Bills): Interviewed 1/28
- Jon Gruden, former head coach (Raiders): Declined Jets’ overtures
- Frank Reich, former head coach (Panthers): Interviewed 1/28; in conversation with team
- Greg Roman, former offensive coordinator (Chargers): Interviewed 1/28
- Lunda Wells, tight ends coach (Cowboys): Interviewed 1/28
Philadelphia Eagles (Out: Kevin Patullo)
- Klayton Adams, offensive coordinator (Cowboys): Interview blocked
- Jim Bob Cooter, offensive coordinator (Colts): Conducted second interview 1/28
- Brian Daboll, former head coach (Giants): Interviewed 1/20
- Declan Doyle, offensive coordinator (Bears): Interview requested; withdrew from search
- Josh Grizzard, former offensive coordinator (Buccaneers): Conducted second interview 1/28
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Conducted second interview 1/29
- Mike Kafka, former interim head coach (Giants): Interviewed 1/17
- Sean Mannion, quarterbacks coach (Packers): Hired
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): To interview
- Matt Nagy, former offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/21
- Zac Robinson, offensive coordinator (Falcons): Interviewed 1/16
- Bobby Slowik, senior pass-game coordinator (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/23
- Frank Smith, former offensive coordinator (Dolphins): Interviewed
- Davis Webb, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Interview requested
- Charlie Weis Jr., offensive coordinator (LSU): Withdrew from search
Pittsburgh Steelers (Out: Arthur Smith)
- Scott Tolzien, quarterbacks coach (Saints): To interview
- Lunda Wells, tight ends coach (Cowboys): Interview expected
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Out: Josh Grizzard)
- Brian Callahan, former head coach (Titans): To conduct second interview 1/22
- Mike Kafka, former interim head coach (Giants): Interviewed
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/16
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed
- Dan Pitcher, offensive coordinator (Bengals): Interviewed 1/21
- Zac Robinson, offensive coordinator (Falcons): Hired
- David Shaw, pass-game coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10
- Israel Woolfork, quarterbacks coach (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/10
Tennessee Titans (Out: Nick Holz)
- Brian Daboll, former head coach (Giants): Hire expected
- Kliff Kingsbury, former offensive coordinator (Commanders): Interviewed 1/26
- Thad Lewis, former quarterbacks coach (Buccaneers): Interviewed 1/26
- Mike McDaniel, former head coach (Dolphins): Mentioned as candidate
- Bobby Slowik, senior pass-game coordinator (Dolphins): Mentioned as candidate
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interviewed
- Adam Stenavich, offensive coordinator (Packers): Interviewed 1/26
Washington Commanders (Out: Kliff Kingsbury)
- David Blough, quarterbacks coach (Commanders): Promoted
- Brian Johnson, pass-game coordinator (Commanders): Interviewed
- Tee Martin, quarterbacks coach (Ravens): Interview scheduled
- David Raih, tight ends coach (Commanders): Interviewed
- Drew Terrell, pass-game coordinator (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/9
- Lunda Wells, tight ends coach (Cowboys): Interviewed 1/8
Defensive Coordinators
Baltimore Ravens (Out: Zach Orr)
- Joe Cullen, defensive line coach (Chiefs): Interview requested
- Jim Leonhard, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interview requested
Buffalo Bills (Out: Bobby Babich)
- Jim Leonhard, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Rumored candidate
Dallas Cowboys (Out: Matt Eberflus)
- Ephraim Banda, safeties coach (Browns): Interviewed 1/9
- Charlie Bullen, interim defensive coordinator (Giants): Interviewed 1/15
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive line coach (Packers): Interviewed 1/16
- Jonathan Gannon, former head coach (Cardinals): To conduct second interview 1/20
- Daronte Jones, defensive backs coach (Vikings): Conducted second interview 1/17
- Jim Leonhard, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed 1/10
- Zach Orr, defensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed
- Christian Parker, defensive backs coach (Eagles): Hired
- Matt Patricia, defensive coordinator (Ohio State): Mentioned as candidate
- Jeff Ulbrich, defensive coordinator (Falcons): Interview blocked
- Aaron Whitecotton, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interviewed
Green Bay Packers (Out: Jeff Hafley)
- Jonathan Gannon, former head coach (Cardinals): Hired
- Al Harris, defensive backs coach (Bears): Interviewed 1/21
- Daronte Jones, defensive backs coach (Vikings): Interviewed 1/22
- Christian Parker, defensive backs coach (Eagles): To interview
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Jesse Minter)
- Steve Clinkscale, defensive backs coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/26
- Adam Fuller, safeties coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/26
- Jim Leonhard, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed 1/28
- Chris O’Leary, defensive coordinator (Western Michigan): Hired
- Zach Orr, defensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed 1/23
- Aubrey Pleasant, pass-game coordinator (Rams): Interviewed 1/24
- Dylan Roney, outside linebackers coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/26
- Dennard Wilson, former defensive coordinator (Titans): Interviewed 1/23
Miami Dolphins (Out: Anthony Weaver)
- Clint Hurtt, defensive line coach (Eagles): Interviewed
New York Giants (Out: Shane Bowen)
- Daronte Jones, defensive backs coach (Vikings): Interviewed 1/22
- Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator (Dolphins): Mentioned as candidate
- Dennard Wilson, former defensive coordinator (Titans): Hired
New York Jets (Out: Steve Wilks)
- Mathieu Araujo, cornerbacks coach (Dolphins): Interviewed
- Ephraim Banda, safeties coach (Browns): Interviewed
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive line coach (Packers): Interviewed
- Brian Duker, pass-game coordinator (Dolphins): Hired
- Chris Harris, interim defensive coordinator (Jets): Interviewed 1/18
- Daronte Jones, defensive backs coach (Vikings): Interviewed
- Jim Leonhard, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed
- Don Martindale, defensive coordinator (Michigan): Conducted second interview 1/24
- Jim O’Neil, defensive assistant/safeties (Lions): Interviewed
Pittsburgh Steelers (Out: Teryl Austin)
- Patrick Graham, defensive coordinator (Raiders): Hired
- Jason Simmons, pass-game coordinator (Commanders): To interview; hired for different role
San Francisco 49ers (Out: Robert Saleh)
- Gus Bradley, assistant head coach (49ers): Interviewed
- Raheem Morris, former head coach (Falcons): Interviewed
- Joe Woods, defensive backs coach (Raiders): Interviewed
Tennessee Titans (Out: Dennard Wilson)
- Aaron Whitecotton, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interview requested; hired as DL coach
- Al Harris, defensive backs coach (Bears): Interviewed 1/24
- Mike Rutenberg, defensive pass-game coordinator (Falcons): Interview requested
- Dino Vasso, defensive backs coach (Texans): Interviewed 1/24
Washington Commanders (Out: Joe Whitt)
- Teryl Austin, defensive coordinator (Steelers): Interviewed
- Joe Cullen, defensive line coach (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/9
- Brian Flores, former defensive coordinator (Vikings): Interviewed 1/14
- Jonathan Gannon, former head coach (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/15
- Patrick Graham, defensive coordinator (Raiders): Interview requested
- Al Harris, defensive backs coach (Bears): Interviewed 1/22
- Daronte Jones, defensive pass-game coordinator (Vikings): Hire expected
- Raheem Morris, former head coach (Falcons): Mentioned as candidate
- Karl Scott, defensive backs coach (Seahawks): Interviewed
- Jeff Ulbrich, defensive coordinator (Falcons): Mentioned as candidate; staying with Falcons
- Dennard Wilson, former defensive coordinator (Titans): Interviewed 1/10
Dan Quinn Also Differed On Philosophy With Kliff Kingsbury; Latest On Commanders’ DC Search
In addition to Kliff Kingsbury‘s differences with GM Adam Peters, it appears Dan Quinn also began to sour on his offensive coordinator. Although a report indicated Quinn was reluctant to fire his top staffers this week, some new reporting paints a different picture. 
Kingsbury and Quinn carried philosophical differences that led to the dismissal, ESPN.com’s John Keim notes. While some around the league are confused by this firing, Keim indicates Quinn knowing he is unlikely to receive a third chance as an NFL head coach prompted him to act earlier than he did in Atlanta.
Quinn sought better balance on offense, preferring the Commanders run more. The surprise coming out of the Kingsbury firing stems from Washington ranking fifth on offense during Jayden Daniels‘ Offensive Rookie of the Year season leading to a separation after the following campaign. Washington ranked ninth in rushing attempts but 25th in carries by running backs. Daniels’ run-game abilities got him in some trouble this season — a three-injury slate involving just seven games — and Marcus Mariota also has been a career-long dual threat. It appears Quinn will want more RB work in 2026.
Washington traded Brian Robinson to San Francisco just before the season and lost veteran Austin Ekeler to a torn Achilles tendon after only two games, but seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt showed flashes of being an effective replacement. The Commanders ranked fourth in rushing by season end, committing to the ground game more down the stretch. Perhaps newly promoted OC David Blough‘s offensive philosophy will align more with Quinn’s preference to run more, as he should be able to continue the momentum with which the team ended the season.
Concerning the other side of the ball, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported today that Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen was interviewed today for Washington’s defensive coordinator position. Cullen has served as a coordinator three times at the collegiate level — twice at Richmond and once at Indiana — and once in the NFL. Before arriving in Kansas City to coach future Hall of Famer Chris Jones and company, Cullen spent a year with the Jaguars in Urban Meyer‘s doomed season with the team.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler adds that Quinn may look back at his old employers to kick the tires on former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris for the DC job in Washington. Morris and his own DC in Atlanta, Jeff Ulbrich, are both being considered as worthy candidates for open jobs across the NFL landscape.
Ely Allen contributed to this post.
2024 Offensive/Defensive Coordinator Search Tracker
After a crowded carousel previously stopped, the 49ers opened their defensive coordinator position. Here is how the NFC champions’ search looks:
Updated 3-2-24 (10:00am CT)
Offensive Coordinators
Atlanta Falcons (Out: Dave Ragone)
- Cortez Hankton, co-offensive coordinator (LSU): Interview requested
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Hired
Buffalo Bills (Out: Ken Dorsey)
- Joe Brady, interim offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach (Bills): Hired
- Thad Lewis, quarterbacks coach (Buccaneers): Interviewed
Carolina Panthers (Out: Thomas Brown)
- Marcus Brady, senior offensive assistant (Eagles): Interview requested
- Brad Idzik, wide receivers coach (Buccaneers): Hired
Chicago Bears (Out: Luke Getsy)
- Marcus Brady, senior offensive assistant (Eagles): Interview requested
- Thomas Brown, offensive coordinator (Panthers): Interviewed 1/17
- Liam Coen, offensive coordinator (Kentucky): Interviewed
- Kliff Kingsbury, senior offensive analyst (USC): Interviewed 1/18
- Klint Kubiak, pass-game coordinator (49ers): Interviewed
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Chargers): Interview blocked
- Greg Olson, quarterbacks coach (Seahawks): Interviewed
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interviewed
- Greg Roman, former offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed
- Shane Waldron, offensive coordinator (Seahawks): Hired
Cincinnati Bengals (Out: Brian Callahan)
- Andy Dickerson, offensive line coach (Seahawks): To interview
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): Promoted
Cleveland Browns (Out: Alex Van Pelt)
- Andy Dickerson, offensive line coach (Seahawks): To interview
- Ken Dorsey, former offensive coordinator (Bills): Hired
- Brian Johnson, former offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/25
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Interviewed 1/23
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Chargers): Interview requested; hired as Eagles OC
Las Vegas Raiders (Out: Mick Lombardi)
- Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator (Commanders): Spoke recently
- Luke Getsy, former offensive coordinator (Bears): Hired
- Chip Kelly, former head coach (Eagles/49ers): Interviewed twice
- Thad Lewis, quarterbacks coach (Buccaneers): Interview requested
- Kliff Kingsbury, senior offensive analyst (USC): Withdrew from consideration
- Klint Kubiak, pass-game coordinator (49ers): May interview; hired as Saints OC
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): To interview 1/24; hired as Bengals OC
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interview requested; hired as Falcons OC
- Mike Sullivan, quarterback coach (Steelers): Interviewed 1/25
- Alex Van Pelt, former offensive coordinator (Browns): Interviewed 1/25; hired as Patriots OC
- Shane Waldron, offensive coordinator (Seahawks): Mentioned as candidate; hired as Bears OC
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Kellen Moore)
- Marcus Brady, senior offensive assistant (Eagles): Hired as pass-game coordinator
- Greg Roman, former offensive coordinator (Ravens): Hired
New England Patriots (Out: Bill O’Brien)
- Thomas Brown, offensive coordinator (Panthers): Interviewed
- Nick Caley, tight ends coach (Rams): Conducted second interview 1/29
- Tanner Engstrand, pass-game coordinator (Lions): Interviewed
- Brian Fleury, tight ends coach (49ers): Interviewed
- Luke Getsy, former offensive coordinator (Bears): Interviewed 1/30
- Klint Kubiak, passing game coordinator (49ers): Interviewed
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): Interviewed 1/23; hired as Bengals OC
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interview requested; hired as Falcons OC
- Scott Turner, passing game coordinator (Raiders): Interview expected
- Alex Van Pelt, former offensive coordinator (Browns): Hired
- Shane Waldron, offensive coordinator (Seahawks): Interviewed; hired as Bears OC
New Orleans Saints (Out: Pete Carmichael)
- Ronald Curry, quarterbacks coach (Saints): Interviewed
- Luke Getsy, former offensive coordinator (Bears): Conducted second interview 1/31
- Brian Griese, quarterbacks coach (49ers): Interviewed
- Brian Johnson, former offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/29
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Conducted second interview 1/27
- Klint Kubiak, pass-game coordinator (49ers): Hired
- Greg Lewis, receivers coach (Ravens): To interview
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): Second interview on 1/24; hired as Bengals OC
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interviewed; hired as Falcons OC
- Mike Sullivan, quarterbacks coach (Steelers): To interview
- Shane Waldron, offensive coordinator (Seahawks): Interviewed; hired as Bears OC
Philadelphia Eagles (Out: Brian Johnson)
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Interviewed
- Kliff Kingsbury, senior offensive analyst (USC): Interviewed 1/23
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Chargers): Hired
Pittsburgh Steelers (Out: Matt Canada)
- Thomas Brown, offensive coordinator (Panthers): Interviewed 1/24
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Interviewed 1/26
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interview requested; hired as Falcons OC
- Arthur Smith, former head coach (Falcons): Hired
Seattle Seahawks (Out: Shane Waldron)
- Eric Bieniemy, former offensive coordinator (Commanders): Rumored candidate
- Tanner Engstrand, pass-game coordinator (Lions): Interview requested
- Ryan Grubb, offensive coordinator (Alabama): Expected to be hired
- Mike Kafka, offensive coordinator (Giants): Interview blocked
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Out: Dave Canales)
- Liam Coen, offensive coordinator (Kentucky): Hired
- Ken Dorsey, former offensive coordinator (Bills): To interview
- Tanner Engstrand, pass-game coordinator (Lions): To interview
- Brian Johnson, former offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/30
- Jerrod Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Texans): Interviewed 1/30
- Thad Lewis, quarterbacks coach (Buccaneers): Interviewed 1/31
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Chargers): To interview 1/29; hired as Eagles OC
- Jake Peetz, pass-game specialist (Rams): Interviewed 2/1
- Antwaan Randle El, wide receivers coach (Lions): Interviewed 1/26
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interview requested; hired as Falcons OC
- John Van Dam, tight ends coach (Buccaneers): To interview
- Alex Van Pelt, former offensive coordinator (Browns): Interviewed 1/29
Tennessee Titans (Out: Tim Kelly)
- Nick Holz, passing game coordinator (Jaguars): Hired
- Thad Lewis, quarterbacks coach (Buccaneers): Interviewed
- Eric Studesville, associate head coach/running backs coach (Dolphins): Interview requested
Washington Commanders (Out: Eric Bieniemy)
- Chip Kelly, former head coach (Eagles/49ers): On team’s radar
- Kliff Kingsbury, senior offensive analyst (USC): Hired
Defensive Coordinators
Atlanta Falcons (Out: Ryan Nielsen)
- Sean Desai, former defensive coordinator (Eagles): To interview
- Aden Durde, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interview requested
- Jimmy Lake, former head coach (Washington): Hired
Baltimore Ravens (Out: Mike Macdonald)
- Zach Orr, inside linebackers coach (Ravens): Promoted
Buffalo Bills
- Bobby Babich, linebackers coach (Bills): Promoted
- Mike Caldwell, former defensive coordinator (Jaguars): Interviewed
- Sean Desai, former defensive coordinator (Eagles): To interview
Chicago Bears (Out: Alan Williams)
- Joe Barry, former defensive coordinator (Packers): To interview 1/27
- Chris Harris, secondary coach (Titans): To interview
- Eric Washington, assistant head coach/defensive line coach (Bills): Hired
- Terrell Williams, assistant head coach/defensive line coach (Titans): To interview
Dallas Cowboys (Out: Dan Quinn)
- Aden Durde, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interviewed 2/6
- Al Harris, cornerbacks coach (Cowboys): Mentioned as candidate
- Marquand Manuel, safeties coach (Jets): To interview 2/8
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed 2/5
- Rex Ryan, former head coach (Bills): Interviewed; team still interested
- Joe Whitt, defensive backs coach (Cowboys): Frontrunner?; hired as Commanders DC
- Mike Zimmer, former head coach (Vikings): Hired
Green Bay Packers (Out: Joe Barry)
- Bobby Babich, linebackers coach (Bills): To interview; hired as Bills DC
- Aden Durde, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interview requested
- Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator (Panthers): Rumored candidate
- Jeff Hafley, head coach (Boston College): Hired
- Chris Harris, secondary coach (Titans): Rumored candidate
- Zach Orr, linebackers coach (Ravens): Interviewed 1/31
- Christian Parker, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed 1/25
- Aubrey Pleasant, defensive backs coach (Rams): Rumored candidate
- Brandon Staley, former head coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/26
- Dennard Wilson, defensive backs coach (Ravens): Interview requested
Jacksonville Jaguars (Out: Mike Caldwell)
- Shane Bowen, defensive coordinator (Titans): Interviewed
- Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator (Panthers): Interview blocked
- Chris Harris, defensive backs coach (Titans): Interviewed
- Chris Hewitt, pass-game coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed
- Marquand Manuel, safeties coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/18
- Don Martindale, former defensive coordinator (Giants): Interviewed 1/16-1/17
- Ryan Nielsen, defensive coordinator (Falcons): Hired
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Derrick Ansley)
- Jesse Minter, defensive coordinator (Michigan): Hired
Los Angeles Rams (Out: Raheem Morris)
- Aden Durde, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Interview requested
- Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator (Panthers): Mentioned as candidate
- Aubrey Pleasant, defensive backs coach (Rams): Expected to interview
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed
- Chris Shula, inside linebackers coach (Rams): Promoted
- Brandon Staley, former head coach (Chargers): Interviewed 1/30
- Dennard Wilson, defensive backs coach (Ravens): To interview
Miami Dolphins (Out: Vic Fangio)
- Bobby Babich, linebackers coach (Bills): Interview requested
- Anthony Campanile, inside linebackers coach (Dolphins): Interviewed
- Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator (Panthers): Interview blocked
- Leslie Frazier, former defensive coordinator (Bills): Interviewed 1/30
- Chris Kiffin, linebackers coach (Texans): To interview
- Chris Shula, linebackers coach/pass-rush coordinator (Rams): To interview 2/1
- Ryan Slowik, outside linebackers coach (Dolphins): Interview expected
- Brandon Staley, former head coach (Chargers): Interviewed
- Anthony Weaver, defensive line coach (Ravens): Hired
New England Patriots
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive line coach (Patriots): Promoted
- Michael Hodges, linebackers coach (Saints): To interview
- Tem Lukabu, outside linebackers coach (Panthers): To interview
- Christian Parker, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed
New York Giants (Out: Don Martindale)
- Derrick Ansley, defensive coordinator (Chargers): Interviewed
- Bobby Babich, linebackers coach (Bills): Interview requested; promoted to Bills DC
- Shane Bowen, defensive coordinator (Titans): To be hired
- Anthony Campanile, linebackers coach (Dolphins): Interview requested
- Brendan Daly, linebackers coach (Chiefs): Interviewed
- Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator (Panthers): Interview blocked
- Daronte Jones, defensive pass game coordinator (Vikings): Interviewed
- Dennard Wilson, defensive backs coach (Ravens): To conduct second interview; hired as Titans DC
Philadelphia Eagles (Out: Sean Desai)
- Mike Caldwell, former defensive coordinator (Jaguars): Interviewed
- Vic Fangio, former defensive coordinator (Dolphins): Hired
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed 1/22
San Francisco 49ers (Out: Steve Wilks)
- Gerald Alexander, safeties coach (Raiders): Interviewed 3/1
- Daniel Bullocks, defensive backs coach (49ers): Interviewed 2/28
- David Merritt, defensive backs coach (Chiefs): To interview
- Nick Sorensen, defensive passing game specialist (49ers): Promoted
- Brandon Staley, former head coach (Chargers): Interviewed
Seattle Seahawks (Out: Clint Hurtt)
- Joe Cullen, defensive line coach (Chiefs): Mentioned as candidate
- Aden Durde, defensive line coach (Cowboys): Hire expected
Tennessee Titans (Out: Shane Bowen)
- Brandon Lynch, cornerbacks coach (Browns): Interviewed 1/30
- Dennard Wilson, defensive backs coach (Ravens): Hired
Washington Commanders (Out: Jack Del Rio)
- Joe Cullen, defensive line coach (Chiefs): Considered a candidate
- Joe Whitt, defensive backs coach (Cowboys): Hired
Michigan To Hire Don Martindale For DC Job
FEBRUARY 9: Michigan is indeed set to hire Martindale for the DC post, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports. He will take over a Wolverines defense which has helped Macdonald and Minter land NFL gigs as he looks to rebuild his pro coordinator stock following an unceremonious Giants departure.
FEBRUARY 7: Don Martindale interviewed for multiple defensive coordinator jobs during this year’s hiring period, but the final two teams in need at this position — the Cowboys and Seahawks — do not have the recent Giants coordinator on their respective radars.
As a result, Martindale looks to be considering coaching in college. After seeing DC Jesse Minter follow Jim Harbaugh to Los Angeles, Michigan is eyeing Martindale — per 247Sports.com’s Matt Zenitz — to run its defense. Martindale’s right-hand man with the Giants, Drew Wilkins, is also drawing consideration in the college ranks, KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson tweets, adding that Martindale is a serious candidate for the Michigan job.
[RELATED: Offensive/Defensive Coordinator Search Tracker]
Martindale, 60, has not coached at the college level since being Western Kentucky’s DC in the early 2000s. The Broncos, Ravens and Giants subsequently employed Martindale as their DC since 2010. After a successful stint in Baltimore, Martindale did not prove a fit in New York. After helping Brian Daboll to a Coach of the Year campaign in 2022, Martindale feuded with the New York HC in Year 2. This came to a head when Daboll’s firing of Wilkins — a longtime Ravens assistant who followed Martindale to New York — set off the fiery DC, leading to a shouting match and Martindale resigning his post.
The Ravens hired Mike Macdonald to replace Martindale following the latter’s one-year run as the Wolverines’ DC (2021). This would make Martindale a logical fit, though his dispute with Daboll would certainly require an investigation by the team/school that hires him. Martindale and Wilkins worked as the Giants’ top assistants on defense, effectively running things on that side of the ball — sometimes without Daboll and GM Joe Schoen‘s say-so. Wilkins has worked with Martindale since 2012, when the latter arrived in Baltimore.
The Jaguars and Packers interviewed Martindale for their respective DC jobs, but each team went in a different direction. Jacksonville hired ex-Atlanta DC Ryan Nielsen, while Green Bay brought Boston College HC Jeff Hafley back to the pros. Considering the unstable college landscape, it is interesting Martindale is being connected to moving back to an NCAA gig after 20 years in the NFL.
Michigan is also considering Chiefs D-line coach Joe Cullen for its DC post, Zenitz adds. Unlike Martindale, Cullen is in consideration for one of the remaining NFL vacancies; the Seahawks have shown interest.
Chiefs’ Joe Cullen Drawing DC Interest From Seahawks
The Commanders made their defensive coordinator hire last night, tapping Joe Whitt for the position. He was joined by Joe Cullen in terms of drawing interest for the position in Washington, however. 
Cullen is also on the Seahawks’ radar for their DC position, Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reports. Cullen has been in Kansas City for the past two years holding the familiar title of defensive line coach. He has worn that hat on a number of occasions at both the college and NFL levels, and his time with the Chiefs has been successful.
Kansas City ranked 29th in sacks one year before Cullen’s arrival, a move which was preceded by his one-and-done stint as defensive coordinator of the Jaguars. The defending champions have posted the second-highest total in that department in each of the two seasons with Cullen in place, though. While draft investments along the edge (particularly the selection of George Karlaftis) have played a role in that turnaround, Cullen’s work has not gone unnoticed during the 2024 hiring cycle.
The 56-year-old has only one season of coordinator experience at the pro level, but he has been an NFL staffer in all but one year since 2006. Jacksonville ranked 20th in total defense and 28th in scoring under Cullen, and Seattle would be looking for better statistical showings than that in 2024 with a new DC. Clint Hurtt is out as part of the sweeping changes to the Seahawks’ staff, with Mike Macdonald taking over from Pete Carroll as head coach. Both the OC and DC spots are open in Seattle at the moment.
A shortlist of candidates to replace Shane Waldron as offensive coordinator has emerged, but Cullen is the first name linked to Seattle’s defensive coordinator posting. With the Commanders having found their preferred candidate already, the Seahawks could be in the lead to pursue Cullen, although Jones notes that Michigan is also interested. The Wolverines are likely to lose DC Jesse Minter to the Chargers as part of Jim Harbaugh‘s staff, and an opening will soon exist in Ann Arbor should that take place. Cullen could thus have a few options to consider if he wishes to take on another coordinator opportunity.
AFC Coaching Notes: Broncos, Jaguars, Chiefs
As Nathaniel Hackett continues to build his staff with the Broncos, the new head coach interviewed many of the team’s holdover position coaches this week, reports Mike Klis of 9News in Denver (via Twitter). The majority of these coaches are “pretty much on hold,” but a handful of coaches are starting to get clarity on their job security.
As Klis notes, defensive backs coach Christian Parker is one of the coaches who will return next season. The 30-year-old has had a rapid rise through the coaching ranks. Prior to getting hired as the Broncos DBs coach in 2021, he spent time as the defensive quality control coach with the Packers. Of course, Hackett was on that Green Bay staff, so there’s already familiarity between the two.
Meanwhile, long-time coach Reggie Herring won’t be retained (per Klis on Twitter). The linebackers coach had been with the organization since their Super Bowl-winning 2015 campaign. He previously spent time as the linebackers coach with the Bears, Texans (two stints), and Cowboys.
More coaching notes out of the AFC:
- The Jaguars won’t be retaining special teams coordinator Nick Sorensen, reports Aaron Wilson (via Twitter). The former player was added to Urban Meyer’s staff last offseason. The 43-year-old previously spent time with the Seahawks, serving as assistant ST coach, assistant defensive backs coach, and secondary coach.
- SiriusXM’s Adam Caplan tweets that Andrew Breiner could be a candidate for Doug Pederson’s new Jaguars staff, potentially as quarterbacks coach. Breiner was last in the NFL in 2020 when he was the passing game analyst for the Eagles, and he spent the 2021 campaign in the college ranks as the offensive coordinator at FIU.
- The Chiefs have hired Joe Cullen as their new defensive line coach, with former DL coach Brendan Daly moving to linebackers coach (per a team announcement on Twitter). Cullen spent last season as the Jaguars defensive coordinator, and he had talks with the Ravens and Colts about their DC vacancies. He was a DL coach for more than a decade during stints with the Lions, Jaguars, Browns, Buccaneers, and Ravens. Daley had spent the past three seasons as the Chiefs DL coach.
- The Bills are expected to hire Vikings offensive line coach Phil Rauscher in the same role, reports ESPN’s Courtney Cronin (via Twitter). Rauscher was one of several Vikings coaches who were given permission to seek other coaching opportunities. The 36-year-old had previous NFL coaching gigs with the Broncos and Washington.
- Former Texans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly is in talks to join the Titans staff, reports ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler (via Twitter). Only 35, Kelly had a quick rise through the Texans organization. After starting as an offensive quality control coach in 2014, Kelly was eventually promoted to assistant offensive line coach, tight ends coach, and (ultimately) OC. He was fired by the organization after the season. Kelly has ties to Titans coach Mike Vrabel stemming from their stints in Houston.
Jaguars Part Ways With DC Joe Cullen
While much of Urban Meyer‘s staff remains under contract in Jacksonville, the organization is still moving on from one of their core coaches. According to ESPN’s Field Yates (via Twitter), the Jaguars have parted ways with defensive coordinator Joe Cullen.
Cullen was hired one year ago by Jacksonville to take over as DC on Meyer‘s staff. The 54-year-old left his post as the defensive line coach in Baltimore to take the gig, though he already had experience with the Jags in that same position. He has also worked with the Buccaneers, Browns and Lions at the NFL level.
This divorce always seemed inevitable. Since the season has ended, Cullen has been connected to defensive coordinator gigs with the Ravens and Colts.
The Jaguars are still hunting for a new head coach, and there’s a good chance that hire will want to bring on their own staff. While the Jaguars parted ways with Cullen today, he’ll probably be the first of many current coaches to be let go by the organization.
Colts To Interview Joe Cullen For DC
One day after losing Matt Eberflus to the Bears, the Colts have begun their search for a new defensive coordinator. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reports (via Twitter) that they will interview Jaguars DC Joe Cullen on Saturday. 
Joel Erickson of the Indy Star tweets that the Colts will also be interviewing WFT defensive backs coach Chris Harris on the weekend. The 39-year-old had an eight-year playing career, and immediately transitioned to coaching after his retirement. He has been in Washington since 2020, after stints with the Bears and Chargers.
Cullen was hired one year ago by Jacksonville to take over as DC on Urban Meyer‘s staff. The 54-year-old left his post as the defensive line coach in Baltimore to take the gig, though he already had experience with the Jags in that same position. He has also worked with the Buccaneers, Browns and Lions at the NFL level.
Cullen was most recently named as a candidate to return to the Ravens after they parted ways with DC Don Martindale. Ultimately, Mike Macdonald got hired for that role, but Cullen is set to be one of “a number of outside candidates” the Colts will meet with.
Breer adds that Colts safeties coach Alan Williams will be among the candidates for the Bears’ DC vacancy. Given his connection with Eberflus, a move to Chicago certainly wouldn’t be surprising if it were to happen. Regardless, it was also announced recently that the Colts have parted ways with DL coach Brian Baker, who had been with the team for the past two seasons. Stay tuned for all the latest updates on the various changes to the Colts’ staff.
Ravens To Interview Jags’ Joe Cullen, Bucs’ Mike Caldwell For DC Job
Reports of Mike Macdonald‘s quick return to Baltimore may be slightly premature. The Ravens are not done discussing their defensive coordinator position, and Jaguars defensive coordinator Joe Cullen is next in line to interview.
Cullen, a Ravens defensive staffer before joining Urban Meyer‘s staff, will meet with John Harbaugh about the DC job, Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun tweets. While Macdonald was reported to be finalizing a deal, The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec pushes back on that a bit, indicating that while the Michigan DC is perceived to be the top candidate, this process is not finished (Twitter link). Cullen will meet with the Ravens on Thursday, Jamison Hensley of ESPN.com tweets.
Like Macdonald, Cullen spent several seasons in Baltimore, serving as the team’s defensive line coach from 2016-20. Jacksonville endured another dreadful season, but Cullen’s defense had moments — particularly in the team’s upset win over the Bills and Week 18 victory over the Colts — during the Jags’ 3-14 season. Cullen, 54, has been an NFL assistant for the past 12 seasons. The 2021 slate was his first as a coordinator.
Buccaneers inside linebackers coach Mike Caldwell will interview for the job as well, Zrebiec tweets. The Todd Bowles lieutenant has been with the Bucs throughout Bruce Arians‘ tenure and was previously the Eagles’ linebackers coach during Andy Reid‘s final Philly seasons. An 11-year veteran linebacker, Caldwell also played on the first Ravens team in 1996.
The Ravens’ search to replace four-year DC Don Martindale has moved fast, with internal candidates (D-line coach Anthony Weaver), external options (Kris Richard, Joe Whitt Jr.) and former Baltimore staffers currently elsewhere (Cullen, Macdonald) coming up in the past few days.
