DeMarcus Covington Emerges as Head Coaching Candidate

The Arizona Cardinals are experiencing a surprising turnaround under head coach Jonathan Gannon, currently leading the NFC West, with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing drawing attention as a potential head coach candidate for the next hiring cycle. Meanwhile, Baltimore Ravens special teams coordinator Chris Horton has also been identified as a young coach to watch, despite the historical challenges faced by special teams coaches in ascending to head coaching roles. In New England, the Patriots' coaches, especially quarterbacks coach T.C. McCartney and defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington, are being recognized for their contributions, with the latter being considered a candidate for a head coaching position after a season of mixed defensive performance. Covington's rise follows the promotion of Jerod Mayo to head coach, maintaining continuity in the coaching staff after Bill Belichick's departure. The Patriots' defense has struggled this season, ranking lower than last year's performance, which may affect Covington's prospects moving forward. As the coaching landscape evolves, these rising stars are being closely monitored by NFL executives and insiders.