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In each of the last few seasons there has been some criticism by a lack of NFL head coaching opportunities going to Black coaches. But with three of the first six vacancies filled by Black candidates, Jemele Hill appears impressed.
Taking to X on Thursday following the hiring of Raheem Morris as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, Hill noted that last year DeMeco Ryans was the only African-American hired despite there being five openings. Having seen three hired already,
“Last NFL offseason, DeMeco Ryans was the only Black coach hired out of 5 openings. This offseason, 3 Black coaches have been hired as head coaches already. It’s giving progress?” Hill wrote.
A number of fans certainly believe that there’s been progress made in that regard:
Last NFL offseason, DeMeco Ryans was the only Black coach hired out of 5 openings. This offseason, 3 Black coaches have been hired as head coaches already.
It’s giving progress? https://t.co/LH56T8uite
— Jemele Hill (@jemelehill) January 25, 2024
“…I genuinely think what Antonio Pierce did for the Raiders this year made a huge difference on how owners perceived black coaches, especially ones that played at the point in time,” one user wrote.
“About time. The struggle continues to see that the majority of NFL head coaches are black in a black dominated sport,” wrote another.
“Raheem getting a second chance is progress since that is usually reserved for sorry coaches like Josh McDaniels,” a third pointed out.
Change comes in many forms.