The Kansas City Chiefs suffered a disappointing 6-11 season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014 and falling short of expectations. This performance has fueled strong fan demands for sweeping roster changes, though Andy Reid’s role as head coach remains secure.
As the NFL undergoes widespread changes among franchises after the regular season, pressure is mounting on the Chiefs to take decisive action. Many believe the team should make bold coaching changes to turn its fortunes around.
Mitchell Schwartz Calls for Mike McDaniel To Be Hired by the Chiefs
Mitchell Schwartz posted on social media that hiring Mike McDaniel could reinvigorate the Chiefs’ offense. McDaniel was recently released by the Miami Dolphins after compiling a 35-33 record and two playoff losses, which came as a surprise to many.
Despite not winning a playoff game, McDaniel became the Dolphins’ first HC in 20 years to complete four full seasons and achieved consecutive playoff appearances. The fact that he has managed to restore Miami’s prominence in the NFL in recent years makes McDaniel highly sought after for new positions in the coming weeks.
Chiefs plz https://t.co/cDkUraAiwV pic.twitter.com/AkLxVcSWO9
— Mitchell Schwartz (@MitchSchwartz71) January 8, 2026
Although Reid will remain head coach, the Chiefs, who rank No. 17 in the PFSN’s NFL Offense Impact Metric with a C grade, can capitalize on McDaniel’s availability by appointing him as offensive coordinator. McDaniel has previous experience as an OC with the San Francisco 49ers in 2021.
McDaniel, who has worked with successful coaches such as Mike Shanahan and Bill Walsh and collaborated with Kyle Shanahan in Atlanta and San Francisco, offers an offensive pedigree. His experience, combined with a healthy Patrick Mahomes, may be what the Chiefs need to return to contention in 2026.
McDaniel’s Hiring by the Chiefs Is Unlikely Right Now
However, the likelihood of McDaniel joining Kansas City is low. His relationship with Dan Quinn and the current situation in Washington make the Commanders his most probable destination, especially after Quinn’s significant influence on McDaniel’s career and personal life.
In addition, Reid has indicated in recent days that he will not be meeting the fans’ expectations, opting not to make drastic changes to his roster for the upcoming NFL season. At the same time, questions remain about whether Matt Nagy will remain with the team.
The current OC’s contract has expired, and other interviews are being scheduled in the coming days, but there is still a chance of a new deal to keep Nagy with the franchise.
