When NFL teams begin searching for new head coaches or coordinators, timing matters—especially when candidates are still coaching in the postseason. The NFL enforces strict rules governing when assistant coaches from playoff teams may be interviewed, particularly during the Conference Championship Games and the Super Bowl.
Here’s a complete breakdown of how the NFL coaching interview process works during the postseason.
Can NFL Teams Interview Assistant Coaches During the Playoffs?
Yes—but only under specific conditions.
The NFL allows interviews with assistant coaches who are still coaching in the playoffs, but those interviews are highly regulated to protect competitive integrity and ensure teams can properly prepare for games.
Conference Championship Game Week: What’s Allowed?
Interviews are limited but permitted
- Assistant coaches whose teams are still alive in the playoffs may be interviewed for head coach or coordinator vacancies.
- Interviews cannot take place during game-preparation days leading up to the Conference Championship Games.
- The NFL allows interviews only during the bye window between the Conference Championship Games and the Super Bowl.
Important restriction: Interviews must not interfere with on-field responsibilities or playoff preparation.
This is why many interviews during this period are short, tightly scheduled, and often conducted virtually.
Super Bowl Week: Interviews Are Prohibited
Absolute league-wide ban
If a coach is part of a Super Bowl team, the NFL does not allow interviews of any kind during Super Bowl week.
This prohibition includes:
- In-person interviews
- Virtual or Zoom interviews
- Informal meetings
- Media appearances tied to a job opening
The NFL enforces this rule strictly to ensure both teams competing in the Super Bowl receive equal preparation time and focus.
What Happens After the Super Bowl?
All restrictions are lifted
Once the Super Bowl concludes:
- Teams may immediately conduct interviews
- Contracts can be finalized
- Coaching hires can be announced
This is why many assistant coaches from Super Bowl teams are officially hired the Monday or Tuesday after the game.
How the Rooney Rule Applies
Even with postseason interview restrictions in place, teams must still comply with the Rooney Rule, which requires interviewing minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operations roles.
- Rooney Rule interviews often occur earlier in the hiring cycle
- Teams may complete required interviews before finalists from Super Bowl teams become available
What Teams Can Do While Waiting to Interview
Even when interviews are restricted, teams are still allowed to:
- Request formal permission to interview coaches
- Schedule interviews for future dates
- Conduct background checks and research
- Prepare contracts and organizational plans (without signing)
Quick Summary: NFL Coaching Interview Rules
| Stage | Interviews Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Divisional Round | Yes | Normal hiring rules apply |
| Conference Championship Prep | No | Game prep protected |
| Bye Week Before Super Bowl | Yes | Limited interview window |
| Super Bowl Week | No | League-wide ban |
| After Super Bowl | Yes | No restrictions |
Why These Rules Matter
The NFL’s coaching interview rules are designed to protect competitive balance, prevent distractions during critical games, and ensure fairness for teams competing for a championship.
For teams searching for a new head coach, understanding these rules is essential to navigating the hiring cycle without violating league policy.