NFL Week 6 Hot Seat Analysis: Coaching and QB Changes Under Scrutiny

The NFL season has reached a critical juncture at the six-game mark, where early struggles can no longer be dismissed as temporary concerns. Several franchises face difficult decisions about their coaching staffs and quarterback situations that could define their seasons. From Miami's public leadership issues to New York's offensive struggles, the pressure is mounting across multiple organizations.

Miami Dolphins: Mike McDaniel's Leadership Crisis

The situation in Miami has reached a boiling point following the Dolphins' 29-27 loss to the Chargers, dropping the team to 1-5. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa publicly criticized the team's leadership, revealing that players have been late or absent from players-only meetings. According to ESPN's reporting, this discipline issue isn't new—players were regularly late to meetings and practices throughout McDaniel's tenure, with concerns ignored while the team was winning.

The problems extend beyond player accountability. Miami's offense, once considered innovative and ahead of the curve, has grown stale. Tagovailoa is averaging 2.7 seconds before his pass attempts, significantly slower than his league-leading 2.36 seconds in 2023. The run game has been inconsistent, managing just 19 yards against the Panthers in Week 5 before showing improvement against the Chargers. With playoff odds at just 2.0% according to ESPN's Football Power Index, and empty seats becoming visible at home games, owner Stephen Ross's history suggests McDaniel's tenure could be in jeopardy.

New York Jets: Justin Fields' Quarterback Dilemma

The Jets' offensive struggles reached new lows in London, where Fields generated negative net passing yards in a 13-11 loss to the Broncos. The quarterback went 9-of-17 for 45 yards while taking nine sacks, resulting in minus-10 net passing yards—the first time any quarterback has produced negative net yards with 20+ dropbacks since Jay Cutler in 2010.

Fields' performance raises serious questions about his future as the starter. Since Week 2, his 10.7 QBR in competitive situations ranks as the worst in the league. The Jets face a difficult decision given Fields' $10 million guaranteed for 2026, but backup Tyrod Taylor offers a moderate floor at the expense of Fields' explosive potential. Coach Aaron Glenn's apparent lack of trust in his quarterback was evident in poor fourth-down decision-making against Denver.

Baltimore Ravens: John Harbaugh's Tenure Under Fire

For the first time in years, 'Fire Harbaugh' chants echoed through M&T Bank Stadium during the Ravens' 17-3 loss to the Rams. The 1-5 start has amplified frustrations that built during the Lamar Jackson era, where regular-season success hasn't translated to playoff advancement beyond the divisional round.

Harbaugh's CEO coaching style makes it difficult to tie his performance directly to unit success, but the Ravens' struggles stem from a combination of tough close-game luck and devastating injuries. The team turned the ball over six times in two games after managing just 11 turnovers all last season. With Jackson expected back from his hamstring injury after the bye week and a favorable schedule ahead featuring six games against teams with a combined 9-24 record, Harbaugh deserves time to right the ship.

Tennessee Titans: Brian Callahan's Development Concerns

The Titans' 1-5 start raises questions about Callahan's ability to develop quarterback Cam Ward and manage game situations effectively. Ward's 25.0 QBR ranks last in the league, and the offensive line—supposed to be a strength—has struggled despite significant investment. First-round pick JC Latham allowed two sacks and six pressures in his return from injury, while left tackle Dan Moore leads the NFL with six sacks allowed.

Callahan has already ceded playcalling duties to Bo Hardegree and relies on his father Bill for run game design, raising questions about his actual influence. Game management issues have plagued the Titans, including a failed challenge in Week 1, delay of game penalties, and questionable late-game decisions. With the offense ranking last in the NFL, Callahan needs to show meaningful improvement in developing Ward and establishing offensive consistency.

Conclusion: Patience vs. Action

While immediate changes might seem appealing for struggling teams, organizations must weigh short-term reactions against long-term development. The Ravens should maintain continuity with Harbaugh given his track record and upcoming schedule, while the Dolphins might need to consider changes if McDaniel can't address leadership concerns. The Jets face the toughest quarterback decision, balancing Fields' potential against immediate competitiveness, while the Titans must determine if Callahan can develop their young quarterback. As the season progresses, these decisions will shape multiple franchises' futures.