Major Roster Shakeups: NFL and MLS Movement in January 2026

January 15, 2026 — The American sports landscape is experiencing significant change as both the NFL and MLS navigate critical offseason periods. From historic coaching decisions to ambitious transfer targets, teams across both leagues are positioning themselves for success in the coming seasons.

NFL: Historic Coaching Change Rocks Pittsburgh

The biggest story dominating NFL headlines this week is the departure of Mike Tomlin from the Pittsburgh Steelers after an unprecedented 19-year tenure. Tomlin announced Tuesday that he is stepping down as head coach, ending one of the most successful runs in franchise history.

Tomlin's legacy is remarkable by any standard. He compiled a 193-114-2 regular-season record and never experienced a losing season during his entire tenure with the Steelers. He became the youngest head coach to win a Super Bowl when Pittsburgh defeated the Arizona Cardinals following the 2008 season, and he led the team to 13 playoff appearances while winning the AFC North eight times.

However, recent postseason struggles weighed heavily on the decision. The Steelers lost seven consecutive playoff games under Tomlin, including a disappointing 30-6 wild-card round defeat to the Houston Texans that ended the 2025 season. Despite finishing 10-7 for the third straight year, the team failed to score an offensive touchdown in that final playoff loss.

Steelers president Art Rooney II expressed gratitude for Tomlin's service while acknowledging the emotional nature of the decision. Tomlin, 53, still has two years remaining on his contract, meaning the Steelers retain his coaching rights if he chooses to join another team. Reports suggest multiple networks including Fox Sports, ESPN, NBC and CBS have interest in Tomlin for broadcasting roles.

NFL Futures Contracts Signal Rebuilding Moves

While playoff teams compete for championships, non-playoff franchises are already building for 2026. Teams across the league have been signing players to reserve/future contracts, which are essentially camp invitations for the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Chargers made significant moves this week by signing 14 players to futures deals, showing their commitment to roster depth. However, the team also fired offensive coordinator Greg Roman after his second season, marking a notable split with head coach Jim Harbaugh, who had worked with Roman since their Stanford days.

The Philadelphia Eagles are also making changes, moving on from offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo after an inconsistent season that ended with a wild-card loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite having considerable offensive talent, the Eagles struggled to find rhythm under Patullo's direction.

MLS: Winter Transfer Window Approaches

Major League Soccer's official winter transfer window is expected to open January 23 and run through March 26, though the league has not yet confirmed these dates. Several clubs have already made significant roster moves ahead of the window.

Inter Miami's Big Offseason

Inter Miami continues building on their 2025 MLS Cup championship with aggressive roster moves. The Herons have reportedly signed goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year who previously played for Minnesota United. The club is also pursuing defender Facundo Mora from Racing Club in Argentina.

Despite these additions, Inter Miami still has an open designated player spot following the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. While rumors previously linked the club with high-profile names like Robert Lewandowski and Neymar, those moves appear unlikely as Neymar signed with Santos and Chicago Fire is pursuing Lewandowski.

Toronto FC's Ambitious Rebuild

Toronto FC is making a serious push to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The club signed U.S. national team veteran center back Walker Zimmerman as a free agent after his contract with Nashville SC expired. They also added Brazilian right back Matheus Pereira from Red Bull Bragantino.

The team still has clear roster needs heading into the January window, particularly at goalkeeper and striker positions. Toronto is expected to pursue Canadian international goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau after his contract with Portland Timbers expired.

Other Notable MLS Moves

Several other clubs have made impactful signings:

D.C. United signed goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair and acquired forward Tai Baribo through a trade with Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia Union lost defender Kai Wagner to Birmingham City but signed Norwegian defender Japhet Sery Larsen from Brann
St. Louis City SC acquired midfielder Daniel Edelman in a trade from Red Bull New York
San Diego FC extended winger Anders Dreyer through the 2028-29 season

Looking Ahead

The NFL coaching carousel is just beginning, with the Steelers now joining eight other teams searching for head coaches. Names like Ben Johnson, Matt LaFleur, and others from the successful NFC North division are expected to be top candidates.

In MLS, the approaching transfer window will determine which teams can make significant additions to challenge for the 2026 MLS Cup. With the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaching in North America, clubs are under pressure to sign marquee talents who can capitalize on increased global attention to soccer in the United States.

Both leagues are experiencing pivotal moments that will shape the competitive landscape for years to come. As teams finalize their rosters and coaching staffs, fans can expect more major announcements in the coming weeks.

All information current as of January 15, 2026. Roster moves and coaching decisions continue to develop.