College football has always been a breeding ground for some of the most innovative and successful coaching minds. Every few years, a college coach makes the leap to the NFL, with all sorts of results.
Right now, several top college coaches are catching the attention of NFL front offices. Here’s a look at six college football coaches who might just make the jump to the NFL in the next five years.
From their impressive records to their coaching quirks, these guys could shake things up on Sundays.
Dan Lanning: The Rising Star from Oregon
At only 40, Dan Lanning has already made a name for himself as one of college football’s top coaches. He’s led the Oregon Ducks to a 48-8 record, snagging two College Football Playoff wins and a Big Ten championship along the way.
Why Lanning Stands Out
Lanning just gets today’s college football. He recruits well, develops talent, and wins big games—what more could you want?
His age gives him a long runway, whether he stays in college or takes a shot at the NFL. If it doesn’t work out, he’s young enough to bounce back.
Marcus Freeman: The Natural Leader
Marcus Freeman is a name that keeps popping up in NFL circles. He’s put together a 43-12 record, with three College Football Playoff wins and even a national title appearance.
Freeman’s Key Attributes
People rave about Freeman’s leadership and his ability to connect with players. That’s probably why teams like the Giants and Bears have been linked to him—his NFL jump feels almost like a matter of time.
Rhett Lashlee: The Offensive Mind
At SMU, Rhett Lashlee keeps building his reputation as an offensive guru. Since 2022, he’s posted a 38-16 record and doesn’t look like he’s slowing down.
What Makes Lashlee a Prime Candidate
The NFL loves offensive-minded coaches these days, and Lashlee fits that bill. His time as Miami’s offensive coordinator only adds to his resume, making him a tempting option for teams desperate for a spark.
Steve Sarkisian: The Experienced Veteran
Steve Sarkisian brings a ton of experience, both in college and the NFL. He’s 48-20 at Texas, including a recent 35-8 stretch that’s hard to ignore.
Sarkisian’s Unique Edge
Sarkisian’s already seen the NFL up close. He worked as the Raiders’ quarterback coach way back in 2004 and coordinated the Falcons’ offense from 2019 to 2020.
That kind of experience is rare among college coaches, and it might give him a real leg up if he decides to try the NFL again.
Kenny Dillingham: The Innovative Mind
Kenny Dillingham took over a struggling Sun Devil program in 2023 and started making noise right away. Even after a rough 2025 season, his creative offense and knack for developing quarterbacks have kept him in the conversation.
Why Dillingham is a Hot Prospect
Dillingham’s youth and fresh ideas make him stand out. He loves Arizona State, but you can’t help but wonder if the NFL will call his name sooner or later.
Brian Hartline: The Intriguing Wild Card
Now at USF, Brian Hartline probably isn’t landing an NFL head coaching gig just yet. Still, his quick rise through the coaching ranks is worth watching.
Once known as the best wide receiver coach in college football, Hartline brings something different to the table. Maybe he’s not next in line, but don’t count him out down the road.
Hartline’s Potential
Hartline played in the NFL from 2009 to 2015. That firsthand experience, paired with his knack for coaching, really puts him on the radar for a future NFL head coaching gig.
He’s got a sharp, offensive-minded style that lines up with what teams seem to want these days. Honestly, it’s hard not to wonder when—not if—he’ll get his shot.
The path from college football to the NFL remains wide open. Coaches like Dan Lanning, Marcus Freeman, Rhett Lashlee, Steve Sarkisian, Kenny Dillingham, and Brian Hartline all have the ambition and the résumé to make the jump.
If you want a deeper dive on these coaches, the full story’s over at Yahoo Sports.
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