NFL head coaching is a high-stakes gig, but sometimes, the exit door swings open faster than expected. From one-day stints to mid-season walkouts, some coaches barely left a mark before they were gone. Here’s a look at 20 of the NFL’s quickest coaching exits.
The “One-Game Wonder” Saga of Bill Belichick with the Jets
Belichick’s tenure at the Jets lasted one day in 2000. In a surprising twist, he resigned just hours after accepting the job, citing complex ownership issues. His one-game, or rather one-day, “stint” remains legendary and paved the way for his Patriots dynasty.
Bobby Petrino’s Midnight Escape from the Falcons
Petrino left the Falcons abruptly in 2007 after only 13 games, sneaking out under the cover of night for a college position. Fans were stunned when they woke up to find he’d bolted, only leaving a note for players instead of a formal farewell.
Urban Meyer’s Rocky End After a Short Jaguars Run
Meyer’s short-lived NFL career ended after just 13 games with the Jaguars in 2021. Controversy and poor performance defined his tenure, from locker room conflicts to viral moments off the field. It was clear Meyer’s college magic didn’t translate to the NFL.
Nick Saban’s Dolphins Experiment That Never Lasted
Miami Dolphins ended 2006 Saban’s brief stay of two seasons, and he returned to college coaching. Despite early hopes, his record failed to shine, leaving NFL fans wondering if he’d ever truly adjusted to the pro game.
Hue Jackson’s Tough Time with the Raiders
After just one season as head coach, Jackson’s Raiders tenure ended in 2011, following an 8-8 record. Known for a no-nonsense style, his exit marked a rebuilding phase for the team. His fiery coaching style left a lasting impression despite his short stay.
Cam Cameron’s One-and-Done Season with the Dolphins
Cameron’s Dolphins run ended after one disastrous 1-15 season in 2007. His team’s record tied Miami’s franchise low, making his tenure one of the shortest (and least successful) in team history. His coaching career swiftly transitioned to coordinator roles.
Jim Mora’s Playoff Hopes Shattered in Seattle
The Seahawks and Mora were only together for one season, ending in 2010 at a 5-11 record. The brief tenure left fans disappointed after he publicly declared playoff hopes. Seattle moved on fast and hired Pete Carroll, who transformed the team’s trajectory soon after.
Mike Mularkey’s Surprise Resignation from the Titans
Mularkey left the Titans in 2018 after back-to-back seasons following a playoff win. Although his exit wasn’t a firing, his departure after playoff success left fans puzzled. His parting reportedly stemmed from philosophical differences between him and team management.
Dennis Erickson’s Short-Lived 49ers Adventure
Erickson led the 49ers for only two seasons, ending in 2004 after a 2-14 record. A tenure that remains one of the roughest stretches for the franchise, with Erickson’s exit marking a major rebuilding phase for San Francisco’s future lineup.
Chip Kelly’s Shaky Ride with the 49ers
Kelly’s strategies failed to gain traction in the NFL, known for his fast-paced offensive style. His San Francisco chapter was momentary, ending after one 2-14 season in 2016. Fans quickly turned on the experiment, and his departure was seen as inevitable.
Marty Schottenheimer’s One-and-Done with Washington
Known for his tough discipline, Schottenheimer’s one-season stint at Washington ended in 2001 after an 8-8 season. He and management faced conflicts, and his departure marked a turbulent time for Washington. Soon after, they hired Steve Spurrier.
Lane Kiffin’s Abrupt Firing from the Raiders
Kiffin’s time at the Raiders ended dramatically after 20 games, with owner Al Davis firing him in 2008. Their public feud became legendary, symbolizing the turmoil of his brief coaching career. Kiffin quickly pivoted back to college coaching, finding renewed success.
Lou Holtz’s Rough Ride with the Jets
The legendary college coach couldn’t adapt to the pro level, and Holtz’s tenure at the Jets ended after 13 games in 1976, making his NFL journey a tough one. He left before the season’s end and returned to college coaching, where his legacy continued to grow.
Al Groh’s Farewell to the Jets After One Year
After just one 9-7 season in 2000, Groh left the Jets and opted for a college job instead. Known for his defensive expertise, his departure wasn’t due to performance but a personal decision and surprised Jets fans who expected a longer commitment.
Steve Wilks’ Swift Exit from the Cardinals
Wilks’ brief time with the Arizona Cardinals ended after a 3-13 season in 2018. His team’s struggles led to a quick replacement, with Arizona moving in a new direction. The coach’s short tenure reflects the league’s high turnover when results aren’t immediate.
Joe Bugel’s Struggles with the Cardinals
Bugel’s two seasons with the Phoenix Cardinals, ending in 1990, were rough, finishing with a record of 12-20. Known as an offensive line guru, Bugel’s success as an assistant didn’t translate to the head role. His departure marked yet another coaching change for the Cardinals during a long phase of instability.
Rich Kotite’s Ill-Fated Return to the Jets
With a miserable 4-28 record, Kotite’s two-year return to the Jets ended in 1996. His resignation marked the start of a new coaching era for the franchise, and his tenure remains infamous, with Jets fans recalling it as one of the roughest patches.
George Allen’s Fast Departure from the Rams
Allen’s second stint with the Rams ended shockingly after two preseason games in 1978, fired due to management disagreements. His tenure is among the shortest in NFL history, an abrupt ending that left fans and players stunned.
Greg Schiano’s Exit After a Tumultuous Buccaneers Season
Ending in 2013, Schiano’s two-season tenure with the Buccaneers was marked by tensions and a 4-12 record. Known for his strict style, he faced criticism from fans and media, with the team’s performance reflecting growing pains.
John Mackovic’s Short Tenure with the Chiefs
Mackovic coached the Chiefs for one season in 1983, closing with a 6-10 record. Despite his offensive expertise, his style didn’t resonate with Kansas City’s roster, which led to a swift departure. His NFL career never regained traction and he shifted back to college roles.
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