Think the coaching drama is over? You never know, do you? Imagine if the NFL came calling for these guys this season or even after next season.
Lincoln Riley, USC
The obvious first comparison is going to be Kliff Kingsbury, but Riley is on a completely different level than the current Cardinals coach. He’s proven his offense can work with anyone, producing results with five different quarterbacks over the last six seasons. The league loves young offensive minds, and he fits the mold to a tee. He’s been mentioned for the Dallas Cowboys for years but a great offensive mind will get looks from anyone.
Jim Harbaugh, Michigan
Who doesn’t love a good comeback story? Harbaugh had the 49ers on the precipice of winning the Super Bowl before losing to his brother’s Ravens team and eventually wearing out his welcome in San Francisco. After back-to-back Big Ten titles, he’s proven once again that he can build a winning culture where he goes. If he’s itching to go back to the pros, there will be plenty of teams interested in him and the Indianapolis Colts rumors are already started.
Josh Heupel, Tennessee
Another offensive-minded head coach, the former Oklahoma quarterback has turned around a moribund Tennessee team through his use of an up-tempo offense that utilizes every inch of the field. He’s done a great job of maximizing the talent he has on the roster, and could do special things for a team who needs a jumpstart on offense.
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Dabo Swinney, Clemson
The legendary coach has been pretty open about his distaste for the current environment of college football and the influence of the portal and NIL. He flirted with the Panthers job a few years ago before it went to Matt Rhule, and his agent will always get feelers.
Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame
It may have gotten off to a rocky start, but Freeman got Notre Dame up and running well this season. He’s got the demeanor and mentality that reminds me a ton of Sean McDermott who has built a juggernaut in Buffalo.
