Being an NFL head coach is a tough gig, and sometimes things just don’t work out. But usually, coaches get more than one season to prove themselves. However, there have been some spectacular flameouts over the years, with coaches getting the boot after just one disastrous season.
Here’s a look back at some of the worst one-and-done head coaches in NFL history:
- Bobby Petrino (Atlanta Falcons, 2007): Petrino’s tenure in Atlanta was a mess from start to finish. He left the Falcons in the lurch after just 13 games, famously quitting via a 78-word letter in the locker room.
- Chip Kelly (San Francisco 49ers, 2016): Kelly’s high-octane offense sputtered in San Francisco, and he was fired after just one 2-14 season.
- Frank Reich (Carolina Panthers, 2023): Reich’s return to Carolina was supposed to be a homecoming, but it ended in disaster after just one season.
- Nathaniel Hackett (Denver Broncos, 2022): Hackett’s struggles with game management and his inability to get the most out of Russell Wilson led to a quick exit after one season.
- Urban Meyer (Jacksonville Jaguars, 2021): Meyer’s off-field antics and embarrassing behavior overshadowed his on-field struggles, and he was fired after just one season.
These are just a few of the coaches who have had disastrous one-and-done seasons in the NFL. It’s a tough business, and sometimes, things just don’t work out. But these coaches will forever be remembered for their spectacular failures.
