How the NFL head coach interview process works: Timeline and the Rooney Rule
The New York Times••sports
Key Points:
- Seven NFL teams, including the Falcons, Cardinals, and Ravens, began their search for new head coaches starting Monday, Jan. 5, with initial interviews allowed to be scheduled from that date.
- Until the divisional playoff round concludes, all initial coaching interviews must be conducted virtually unless the candidate is not currently employed by an NFL team.
- Specific rules dictate when coaches from teams eliminated or still in the playoffs can participate in interviews, with in-person interviews only allowed after a candidate's season ends.
- The Rooney Rule mandates that teams must conduct in-person interviews with at least two minority or female external candidates for head coach and executive roles, aiming to promote diversity in NFL leadership.
- Interview scheduling restrictions are strict during playoff periods, especially concerning candidates
