Ranking the 5 NFL head coach hirings of the 2023 offseason

5. Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals hired Jonathan Gannon, the former defensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles, soon after the Super Bowl. Gannon has a good defensive reputation, working as the Colts’ defensive backs coach from 2018-20 before being hired by the Eagles in 2021.

His expertise was noticeable, especially in a Philadelphia defense that was among the best in the league in numerous categories over the 2022 season. However, Gannon benefitted from a general manager that made bold moves to improve the defense such as trades for Darius Slay, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Robert Quinn, something that he may not be afforded in Arizona.

Additionally, this feels like an overcorrection move for the Cardinals who go from a head coach tailor-made for quarterback Kyler Murray to one who will likely have a hands-off approach with the former No. 1 overall pick. Perhaps this move will help the team become more well-rounded but with roster turnover likely, expect Gannon to struggle early in his tenure in the desert.