Analyzing NFL's head coaching carousel as end of 2023 regular season looms

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With eight days remaining in the 2023 NFL regular season, seven playoff spots have been wrapped up, 17 teams remain alive for the other seven … and the way things play out will impact some looming decisions on head coaches' futures as well.    

Here's a snapshot look at some of the NFL's hot seats and plans for three jobs that are open already, based on conversations with numerous NFL sources:

New owner Josh Harris hasn't commented publicly since Nov. 24, when he issued a statement following the firing of defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio saying he feels “exactly how our fans feel today: disappointed and frustrated.”

The Commanders are 0-3 since and this week benched quarterback Sam Howell. So, while no decisions have been finalized, the situation appears to be trending towards major changes, including moving on from coach Ron Rivera.

If and when that happens, expect Harris to lead the search for his replacement. He's shown a penchant for attracting and hiring key personnel, including bringing in Nick Nurse and Daryl Morey to the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and Lindy Ruf and Tom Fitzgerald to the NHL's New Jersey Devils. The Commanders job is more attractive than it's been in decades, thanks to competent ownership, some building blocks on the roster, a potential top-three draft pick and extra draft capital to potentially package and target a new franchise QB.

The status of general manager Martin Mayhew is also up in the air. Expect the Commanders to at least explore a modified front office structure that more closely resembles other sports, with a president of football operations-type overseeing the head coach and GM. Eugene Shen,