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Which NFL Head Coaches Are on the Hot Seat Down the Stretch?

By Peter Panacy

Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Chip Kelly looks on during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Chip Kelly looks on during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 20, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Gus Bradley second half against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Gus Bradley second half against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

Gus Bradley, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars might have won the offseason, but their 2-8 record this year stands in stark contrast to the efforts the team has made since January.

All this points to head coach Gus Bradley being on the hot seat entering 2017.

When he took over in 2013, Bradley knew he was inheriting a talentless squad in need of some sort of direction. The process would take time. But how long should Jacksonville give him?

Bradley has 14 wins over three-plus seasons to his credit. Yes, the Jaguars defense — Bradley’s specialty — has shown improvement, especially within the secondary. And a few more pieces on the offensive side of the ball could help turn this group around pretty quickly.

The question is whether or not the Jaguars believe Bradley is the guy to help usher in that change.

It’s possible Jacksonville finally realizes how bad quarterback Blake Bortles really is. Still, one would figure this group to be much better after all those offseason additions.

Why He Stays

The front office might want to see what Bradley can do with at least a competent quarterback under center. This team isn’t as far away from contending as, let’s say, the 49ers right now. And while Bradley’s future doesn’t look bright at all, giving him one more year at the helm makes a bit more sense.

Why He Goes

In spite of the moderate defensive improvement, the Jaguars are still ranked as the 25th-best defense in the NFL.

It would be one thing if this was a team with a respectable defense and no offense, considering Bradley’s defensive background. But to look at these stats points out Bradley isn’t capable of getting the most out of this unit either.