Understanding the NFL coaching interview rules is essential during hiring cycles, especially from the end of the regular season through the Super Bowl. The league has strict policies to prevent tampering, protect competitive balance, and ensure fair hiring practices.
What Are the NFL Rules for Interviewing Coaches?
The NFL regulates coaching interviews through its Constitution and Bylaws. These rules determine who can be interviewed, when interviews may occur, and how they must be conducted.
Permission Requirements for NFL Coaching Interviews
NFL teams must request permission to interview:
- Assistant coaches under contract with another team
- Offensive, defensive, or special teams coordinators under contract
Permission is not required to interview:
- Coaches whose contracts have expired
- Coaches who have been fired
- College coaches
- NFL assistants interviewing for head coach or general manager roles (subject to timing rules)
When Can NFL Teams Interview Head Coaching Candidates?
Head Coach Interview Timing
NFL teams may interview assistant coaches for head coaching positions:
- After the regular season ends
- Even if the candidate’s current team is still in the playoffs
However:
- In-person interviews are only allowed after the candidate’s team is eliminated
- Virtual interviews may occur earlier, including during bye weeks
Interviews cannot be conducted on game days or during active game preparation.
Coordinator and Assistant Coach Interview Rules
For coordinator and assistant roles:
- Interviews usually cannot occur until the candidate’s season is complete
- Teams must wait until after the Super Bowl if the candidate’s team is still active
The key exception is when a candidate is being considered for a head coach or GM role.
The Rooney Rule and NFL Coaching Interviews
The Rooney Rule governs diversity requirements in NFL hiring.
Rooney Rule Requirements
- Head Coach positions: Teams must interview at least two external minority candidates
- Coordinator positions: Teams must interview at least one external minority candidate
- At least one interview must be in person, when feasible
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply may result in:
- Substantial fines
- Loss of draft picks
- League discipline
Interview Format Rules: Virtual vs. In-Person
| Interview Type | Allowed When |
|---|---|
| Virtual interview | After regular season ends |
| In-person interview | Only after candidate’s team is eliminated |
| Game-day interviews | Not allowed |
Teams are also prohibited from disrupting:
- Practices
- Team meetings
- Travel schedules
Contract and Negotiation Restrictions
NFL teams may not negotiate contract terms with a candidate who is still under contract with another team. Conversations must remain informational only until permission is formally granted.
NFL Anti-Tampering Enforcement
Violations of interview rules—such as early contact, unauthorized negotiations, or failure to request permission—can lead to:
- Heavy fines
- Draft pick forfeitures
- Public league sanctions
The NFL enforces these rules aggressively to protect competitive integrity.
Why NFL Teams Rush Coaching Interviews
Teams aim to complete interviews quickly to:
- Secure top candidates before competitors
- Align coaching hires with draft and free-agency planning
- Meet Rooney Rule requirements early
This is why many interviews occur between Week 18 and the Super Bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can NFL teams interview coaches during the playoffs?
Yes, but only virtual interviews unless the candidate’s team is eliminated.
Can NFL teams interview college coaches anytime?
Yes. College coaches are not bound by NFL contract rules.
Can teams talk contract details early?
No. Contract negotiations are prohibited until formal permission is granted.
Final Thoughts
The NFL’s coaching interview rules balance competitive fairness with hiring flexibility. By enforcing permission requirements, timing restrictions, and diversity standards, the league ensures an orderly and transparent coaching hiring process each season.