As the CEO of Artisan Agility, I’ve long been a trainer and coach for leaders. I look for solid leadership examples wherever I can, from the boardroom to the office to the football field. Professional football and head coaches are great places to study leadership because it is a high-pressure environment where leaders must make quick decisions and motivate their teams to perform at their best.
In this blog post, I use the Artisan Agility Leadership Assessment tool (for more about the device, how to use it, and leadership in general, check out Artisan Agility’s The Leadership Ascent training program). I will discuss the leadership qualities of all the head coaches in the NFL. I will focus on their ability to create a winning culture, motivate their players, and make tough decisions under pressure.
This blog post features only coaches who landed at positions #32 through #17. Part two with the top half of the list (positions #16 through #1) is here.
A couple of important notes:
- Being a head coach in the NFL requires advanced leadership skills. Even those coaches that rank in the bottom 25% of my list are still excellent leaders. However, there are differences between them, and in this blog post, I work very hard to show you a clear difference in leadership skills.
- Coaches with more experience are inevitably better leaders. True to this, some of the most tenured head coaches make the top of my list.
- This is not about my favorite team. I’ve measured every head coach as consistently and objectively as I could. As someone who spent 40 years in Philadelphia, my team is the Philadelphia Eagles. You’ll find their head coach near the middle of my list (see part 2 of this series). Hey, he’s good, but he’s new.
Methodology
My methodology is relatively simple, honed several times with thousands of leaders worldwide. It attempts to measure leaders in terms of their ability to
- Build Culture – build a solid human-centered culture that fosters hard work and achievement, not commanding and punishing.
- Foster Discipline – foster discipline within the organization (not punishment-discipline, but discipline to stay focused against organizational goals)
- Be Humility – always be humble, taking the blame when things go wrong while passing on the victory to the team when things go well.
- Communicate Effectively – be able to speak clearly about intent, goals, and vision.
- Motivate Others – motivate the team to achieve the organization’s goals.
For head coaches of football teams, I also had to factor in how well the organization performs. In most organizations, you can’t always tell how well things are going. In a football team, the reality is in the team’s standings. So, I factor in years of experience, how the media writes about the coach, playoff wins, and Super Bowl appearances.
Lastly, I believe that the primary goal of excellent leaders is to nurture and grow new exceptional leaders. So, I also consider how many of the head coaches’ assistants went on to become head coaches themselves.
The Scandal Penalty
The last aspect of the scoring system is the Scandal Penalty. The Scandal Penalty is based on the following:
- If you’re a leader, you’re responsible for the conduct of your organization and,
- Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
If a head coach is implicated in a scandal, a fraction of a point is deducted for each scandal from the subtotal score.
One important note: I did not include criticisms of the head coach as a scandal, such as “being too aggressive in their play calling” or “putting a player back in the game when they were injured.” That’s a call a leader has to make, and it doesn’t always work out. However, if a scandal involves being fined, suspended, or fired, you can bet it was part of the calculation.
Your Thoughts?
If you disagree with my rankings (and I know you will), leave a comment (politely) and let me know. Let me know if I’ve missed something I should have factored in. I’ll re-calculate and see what happens if you make a strong point.
I start the list of 2023 head coaches with someone who isn’t currently a head coach and, given his performance in the 2022 season, will likely never be an NFL head coach again. I want him there to give you a floor – how bad it can get – so you can truly appreciate all 32 head coaches’ abilities, no matter where they fall on the list.
I hope you find this post informative and inspiring. Part two – The coaches ranked #16 through #1 will be posted next week (around September 19, 2023). I’ll return next year (June/July 2024) with another leadership blog post installment.
Urban Meyer was born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1964. He played college football at the University of Cincinnati, where he was a two-time All-MAC selection. After college, Meyer worked as a graduate assistant at Ohio State University and then as the head coach at Bowling Green State University. In 2001, he was hired as the head coach at Utah, where he led the Utes to a 10-2 record and a win in the Fiesta Bowl.
In 2005, Meyer was hired as the head coach at Florida. He led the Gators to a 22-0 record in his first season, including a win in the BCS National Championship Game. Meyer won two more national championships with Florida in 2006 and 2008. He resigned as the head coach of Florida in 2010 after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
In 2012, Meyer returned to coaching as the head coach at Ohio State. He led the Buckeyes to a 12-0 regular season record in 2014, but they were ineligible for the postseason due to NCAA sanctions. Meyer resigned as the head coach of Ohio State in 2018 after being investigated for how he handled domestic violence allegations against one of his assistant coaches.
Urban Meyer has won three national championships, two at Florida and one at Ohio State. He is known for his offensive-minded coaching style and ability to recruit top talent.
Accomplishments
- National championships: 3 (2006, 2008, 2014)
- SEC championships: 2 (2006, 2008)
- Big Ten championships: 2 (2014, 2015)
- Fiesta Bowl wins: 2 (2005, 2009)
- Sugar Bowl wins: 2 (2007, 2010)
- BCS National Championship Game wins: 2 (2006, 2008)
- College Football Playoff appearances: 1 (2014)
Scandals
- In 2018, Meyer was investigated for his handling of domestic violence allegations against one of his assistant coaches. He was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing, but he resigned as the head coach of Ohio State shortly after the investigation concluded.
- In 2021, Meyer was caught dancing with a young woman at a bar while he was the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was also accused of creating a toxic environment in the Jaguars’ locker room. The Jaguars fired Meyer before his first season concluded.
What Can Leaders Learn?
Urban Meyer has considerable experience with football, but as a leader, he falls far short of the standards to which any reasonable leader should strive. Here are some things that leaders can learn from him:
- Above all, be honest and protect those you are (even tangentially) responsible for. Meyer’s handling of domestic violence allegations against one of his assistant coaches is a story of apparent lies. First, he claimed no knowledge of the domestic abuse allegations and then claimed to have handled the reports of abuse through proper channels.
- Be a leader at all times. After losing to the Cincinnati Bengals, Meyer stayed in town to visit relatives and was seen at a bar with a woman who was not his wife. Even if you excuse Meyer for staying in Ohio as his team returned home (with the next ten days off), being seen at a bar sets a poor example for a leader and a teammate. Meyer himself discusses the incident as being stupid.
- No matter the circumstances, using physical punishment to “teach” someone you lead is a horrid violation of leadership ethics. Meyer was fired shortly after reports that he kicked teammate Josh Lambo because Lambo, the team’s field goal kicker, missed field goals.
Bottom line, Urban Meyer is a poor leader and might be better described as a bully. In college football, he got what he wanted from players who needed his support to move on to the NFL. In the NFL, however, Meyer proved himself utterly incapable of leading his players, much less setting an appropriate example as a leader.
As a benchmark, Urban Meyer will likely remain the poorest head coach in NFL history, according to Artisan Agility’s Leadership Assessment.
Josh McDaniels was born in Winchester, Massachusetts, on April 22, 1976. He played college football at John Carroll University, where he was a two-year starter at quarterback. After college, McDaniels worked as a graduate assistant at Syracuse University and then as a scouting assistant for the New England Patriots.
McDaniels joined the Patriots coaching staff full-time in 2001 as a personnel assistant. He was promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2004 and offensive coordinator in 2006. Under McDaniels’s guidance, the Patriots’ offense became one of the most prolific in the NFL. In 2007, the Patriots set the NFL record for points scored in a season (589).
In 2011, McDaniels was hired as the head coach of the Denver Broncos. He led the Broncos to a 13-3 record in his first season, but they lost in the AFC Championship Game. The Broncos fired McDaniels after the 2012 season.
In 2018, McDaniels returned to the Patriots as offensive coordinator. He has helped the Patriots continue to have one of the most productive offenses in the NFL.
Accomplishments
As a head coach, McDaniels has a record of 18-20. He has led his teams to the playoffs twice.
As an offensive coordinator, McDaniels has a record of 166-101. He has helped the Patriots win three Super Bowls (XXXVI, XXXVIII, and XXXIX).
Scandals
McDaniels has been involved in two major scandals during his coaching career:
- In 2018, he was accused of tampering with the Patriots’ draft picks. He was fined $600,000 by the NFL.
- In 2017, he was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a female employee of the Patriots. He was not disciplined by the NFL.
What Can Leaders Learn from Josh McDaniels?
Josh McDaniels is a talented coach with a strong track record of success. He has a knack for developing young players and creating a positive team culture. However, he has also been criticized for his controlling nature and tendency to make mistakes.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from Josh McDaniels:
- Be a strong leader. McDaniels is not afraid to make tough decisions and hold his players accountable.
- Be a good communicator. McDaniels can communicate his vision to his players and the media.
- Be adaptable. McDaniels is willing to change his game plan based on the opponent.
- Be humble. McDaniels is not afraid to admit when he is wrong.
- Be patient. McDaniels knows that it takes time to build a successful team.
Overall, Josh McDaniels is a complex figure with a checkered past. Leaders can learn a lot from his successes and failures. As an offensive coordinator, McDaniels’ has shown considerable success. As a head coach, he’s not yet consistently demonstrated an ability to lead. His first season with the Denver Broncos went very well, but collapsed the following year. His first year with the Las Vegas Raiders went 6-11 with a three-game losing streak at the end of the season. If anything, McDaniels’ future will hinge on his ability to recognize where he needs to improve as a leader.
Shane Steichen was born in Sacramento, California on May 11, 1985. He played college football at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he was a four-year letterman as a quarterback. After graduating from UNLV, Steichen began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Louisville in 2010. He then spent two seasons as a defensive assistant with the San Diego Chargers (2011-12).
In 2014, Steichen joined the Los Angeles Chargers (formerly the San Diego Chargers) as an offensive assistant. He was promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2017 and offensive coordinator in 2020. In 2022, Steichen helped the Chargers reach the AFC Championship Game.
Accomplishments
- Helped the Chargers reach the AFC Championship Game in 2022.
- Helped the Philadelphia Eagles reach the Super Bowl in 2023.
- Developed Justin Herbert into one of the NFL’s most promising young quarterbacks.
- Known for his ability to create a positive and inclusive team culture.
What Can We Learn?
Shane Steichen is a young and up-and-coming head coach with much to offer the NFL. He is a proven developer of quarterbacks and has a knack for creating a positive and inclusive team culture. Steichen is also a strong communicator and motivator.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from Shane Steichen:
- The importance of developing talent. Steichen has a proven track record of developing quarterbacks and is known for his ability to get the most out of his players.
- The importance of creating a positive and inclusive team culture. Steichen’s teams are known for their hard work and dedication, and they are also known for being a close-knit group.
- The importance of communication and motivation. Steichen is a strong communicator who can convey his message clearly and concisely. He is also a good motivator who can get his players to believe in themselves and their abilities.
Shane Steichen is a rising star in the NFL, and his leadership skills are good for a head coach. However, he’s only in his first year, and we need to see how he’ll do as a head coach before really understanding the possibilities. That’s why he makes this year’s list at #31.
Jonathan Gannon was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on March 21, 1981. He played college football at Villanova University, where he was a two-year starter at safety. After graduating from Villanova, Gannon began coaching as a graduate assistant at Temple University. He then spent two seasons as a defensive quality control coach for the New York Giants.
In 2014, Gannon joined the Philadelphia Eagles as a defensive assistant. He was promoted to defensive backs coach in 2017 and to defensive coordinator in 2020. In his first season as defensive coordinator, the Eagles ranked 14th in the NFL in total defense.
Accomplishments
- Helped the Eagles improve from 29th in the NFL in total defense to 14th in his first season as defensive coordinator.
- Developed several young players, including Darius Slay.
- Known for his strong communication and motivation skills.
What Can We Learn?
Leaders can learn a lot from Jonathan Gannon’s coaching philosophy. He is known for emphasizing player development and creating a positive and inclusive team culture. He is also a strong communicator and motivator. Gannon’s defensive coordinator success shows he is a talented coach who can get the best out of his players.
Here are some specific things that leaders can learn from Jonathan Gannon:
- Emphasize player development. Gannon is a strong believer in player development. He believes the best way to build a successful team is to develop young players and get them to reach their full potential. Leaders can learn from Gannon by prioritizing player development and creating a system where players can learn and grow.
- Create a positive and inclusive team culture. Gannon is known for creating a positive and inclusive team culture. He believes a team is more likely to succeed if the players feel comfortable and supported. Leaders can learn from Gannon by creating a team culture where everyone feels valued and respected. When stepping into the mess that was the Cardinals’ team in 2023, Gannon moved swiftly to establish a culture of accountability. “It’s been a culture shock,” said left tackle D.J. Humphries, “It ain’t even been no gradual shift. It’s shock. It’s ‘Get ready or get going.’ ”
- Be a strong communicator. Gannon is a clear and concise communicator. He can communicate effectively with his players, the media, and the front office. Leaders can learn from Gannon by developing their communication skills to communicate their vision and goals to others effectively.
- Be a motivator. Gannon is a great motivator. He can get the best out of his players and help them achieve their goals. Leaders can learn from Gannon by developing motivational skills to inspire and motivate their team to succeed.
Jonathan Gannon demonstrates some solid leadership skills, but he’s only in his first season as a head coach; that’s why he hits this year’s list at #30.
Brian Michael Daboll (born April 14, 1975) is a Canadian-born American football coach who is the head coach for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He served as the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, Alabama Crimson Tide, and Buffalo Bills. Daboll has also served in various capacities as an assistant coach for the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2006 and again from 2013 to 2016.
History in Football
Daboll began coaching as a graduate assistant at the University of Rochester in 1997. He then spent two seasons as a defensive backs coach at William & Mary. In 2000, he joined the New England Patriots as a scouting assistant. He was promoted to offensive assistant in 2002 and to tight ends coach in 2004. Daboll was part of the Patriots coaching staff that won five Super Bowls (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, and LI).
In 2007, Daboll was hired by the Cleveland Browns as their quarterbacks coach. He spent two seasons in Cleveland before being hired by the Miami Dolphins as their offensive coordinator in 2009. The Dolphins fired Daboll after the 2011 season.
In 2013, Daboll returned to the Patriots as their wide receivers coach. He was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2016. Daboll was part of the Patriots coaching staff that won another Super Bowl in 2017.
In 2018, Daboll was hired by the Buffalo Bills as their offensive coordinator. He helped develop quarterback Josh Allen into a franchise player. The Bills made the playoffs in Daboll’s four seasons in Buffalo, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game in 2020.
In 2022, Daboll was hired by the New York Giants as their head coach.
Accomplishments
- PFWA 2022 NFL Coach of the Year
- 5x Super Bowl champion (as an assistant coach)
- 1x AFC Championship Game appearance (as an offensive coordinator)
- Developed Josh Allen into a franchise quarterback
- Helped the Buffalo Bills make the playoffs in each of his four seasons as offensive coordinator
Scandals
Daboll has not been involved in any major scandals during his coaching career.
What Can We Learn from Brian Daboll?
Brian Daboll is a successful NFL coach who has learned much from his experiences. Here are a few things we can learn from him:
- The importance of developing talent. Daboll has a knack for developing young players, especially quarterbacks. He helped Josh Allen become a franchise quarterback in Buffalo.
- The importance of being creative. Daboll is known for his innovative offensive schemes. He is not afraid to think outside the box and try new things.
- The importance of being a good communicator. Daboll is an excellent communicator who can clearly and concisely communicate his ideas to his players and the media.
- The importance of being a good leader. Daboll is a respected leader who can get the best out of his players.
Overall, Brian Daboll is a capable NFL coach. His first season with the New York Giants saw a tremendous improvement in the team and their abilities. However, at the time of this writing, his second season has opened with a 40-0 lesson handed to them by the Dallas Cowboys. The big question now is: how does Coach Daboll respond? We’ll learn a lot about Coach Daboll’s leadership abilities in the next couple weeks! For now, however, he’s #29 on this year’s list.
DeMeco Ryans was born on July 28, 1984, in Bessemer, Alabama. He attended Jess Lanier High School in Bessemer and played high school football. In his senior season, Ryans had 135 tackles, 11 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions. Considered a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, he was listed as the No. 39 inside linebacker prospect in the nation from the class of 2002. He picked Alabama over Mississippi State.
Ryans played college football at the University of Alabama from 2002 to 2005. He was a two-time All-SEC selection and a unanimous All-American in 2005. He also received the Butkus Award, which is given to the nation’s best college linebacker.
The Houston Texans drafted Ryans in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played for the Texans from 2006 to 2011. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2006.
In 2012, Ryans was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. He played for the Eagles from 2012 to 2015. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2013.
Ryans retired from the NFL in 2016.
What Can Leaders Learn from DeMeco Ryans?
DeMeco Ryans is a young and up-and-coming head coach with much to offer the NFL. He is a former player who understands the game inside and out. He is also a strong communicator and motivator.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from DeMeco Ryans:
- Be a strong communicator. Ryans can communicate effectively with his players, staff, and the media. He is also a good listener who can use feedback to improve.
- Be a motivator. Ryans can get his players and staff to achieve their goals. He is also a good teacher who can help his players improve their skills.
- Be humble. Ryans is a humble coach who is willing to learn from his mistakes. He is also gracious in victory and defeat.
- Be a team player. Ryans is a team player willing to put the team’s needs above his own. He is also a good collaborator who can work with others to achieve common goals.
I believe that DeMeco Ryans has the potential to be a great head coach in the NFL. Sports Illustrated identified him as “the perfect head coaching candidate” primarily because of Ryans’s leadership skills. I agree that he has the potential to be a great head coach. That said, he is in his first year as a head coach and, unfortunately, for a team has been going through head coaches once a year. For now, Coach Ryans makes this year’s list at #28.
Todd Bowles was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey on September 18, 1969. He played college football at Temple University, where he was a two-time All-MAC selection. After college, Bowles was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the seventh round of the 1991 NFL Draft. He played six seasons in the NFL, mainly as a special teams player.
After his playing career, Bowles began his coaching career as a defensive assistant with the Dallas Cowboys in 1999. He then worked as a defensive backs coach for the Miami Dolphins (2000-2005), Washington Redskins (2006-2007), and Arizona Cardinals (2008-2012). In 2013, Bowles was promoted to defensive coordinator of the Cardinals. He held that position for four seasons when the Cardinals won the NFC West division title three times.
Accomplishments
In 2015, Bowles was hired as the head coach of the New York Jets. He led the Jets to a 10-6 record in his first season, but they missed the playoffs. In 2016, the Jets went 5-11, and Bowles was fired.
In 2019, Bowles was hired as the defensive coordinator of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He helped the Buccaneers win the NFC South division title in 2020 and the Super Bowl LV in 2021.
Scandals
Bowles has been involved in a few minor scandals during his career.
- In 2016, he was fined by the NFL for making a racially insensitive remark to a player.
- In 2021, he was accused of disparaging a female reporter.
What Can We Learn?
Todd Bowles is a successful NFL coach who has learned from his mistakes and grown as a leader. Here are some things that leaders can learn from him:
- Be humble and willing to learn. Bowles has made mistakes in his career but has always been willing to learn and improve.
- Be a good communicator. Bowles is an effective communicator who can communicate clearly and concisely with his players, staff, and the media.
- Be a motivator. Bowles is a highly motivated coach who can get his players to achieve their goals.
- Be a team player. Bowles is a team player willing to put the team’s success above his ego.
The bottom line, however, is I’ve found Coach Bowles to repeatedly underperform in situations where he should be able to succeed. As a defensive coordinator, he has proven himself to be very capable. As a head coach, not so much. He holds a head coach position again — we’ll see what happens to the Bucs in 2023. For now, Coach Bowles lands at position #27 on this year’s list of head coaches as leaders.
Matt Eberflus was born on May 17, 1970 in Toledo, Ohio. He played college football at Toledo a four-year letterman and three-year starting linebacker. He earned first-team All-MAC honors as a junior and again as a senior, leading the team in tackles in both years. As a junior, Eberflus helped lead the Rockets to a 9–2 record and a MAC co-championship. As a team captain in his senior year, Eberflus was chosen for the Nicholson Award as the team’s Most Valuable Player.
After college, Eberflus began coaching as a graduate assistant at Toledo in 1993. He then spent two seasons as a defensive assistant at Eastern Illinois before moving to Missouri in 1996. He spent nine seasons at Missouri as the defensive coordinator from 2001 to 2005.
In 2006, Eberflus moved to the NFL, where he was the linebackers coach for the Cleveland Browns for two seasons. He then spent seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, where he was the linebackers coach from 2009 to 2015 and the passing game coordinator from 2016 to 2017.
In 2018, Eberflus was hired as the defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts. He held that position for four seasons, helping the Colts to a 39-29 record and two playoff appearances.
Eberflus has been coaching football for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience at all levels of the game. He has been a head coach at the high school level, a college assistant coach, and an NFL assistant coach. He has also been a defensive coordinator in the NFL for four seasons.
Accomplishments
Eberflus has had a lot of success in his coaching career. He has helped his teams to win games and make the playoffs. He has also helped to develop young players into NFL stars.
Some of Eberflus’s most notable accomplishments include:
- Helping the Indianapolis Colts to a 39-29 record and two playoff appearances in four seasons as defensive coordinator.
- Developing several NFL stars, including Darius Leonard, Malik Hooker, and DeForest Buckner.
- Being named the 2022 NFL Assistant Coach of the Year by the Pro Football Writers Association.
What Can We Learn from Matt Eberflus?
Matt Eberflus is a successful coach with much to offer other leaders. Here are a few things we can learn from him:
- Be a good communicator. Eberflus is known for his clear and concise communication skills. He can communicate effectively with his players, staff, and the media.
- Be a good motivator. Eberflus can get his players to play hard and achieve their goals. He creates a positive and supportive environment where players feel motivated to succeed.
- Be a good teacher. Eberflus is a skilled teacher who can help his players learn and improve. He is also willing to learn and grow as a coach.
- Be a good decision-maker. Eberflus can make tough decisions under pressure. He is also able to adapt his game plan to the opponent.
Eberflus is a rising star in the NFL coaching ranks, and he has the potential to be a great head coach. He is a good communicator, motivator, teacher, and decision-maker. In his way, however, is a team lacking serious talent in all game elements (when Eberflus, a former defensive coordinator, has the worst defense in the league, you know the team’s problems run far, wide, and deep). So, Eberflus’ challenge this year is to take a talent-weak team and create a culture of hard work and hustle that only a strong leader can evoke. Let’s see where 2023 takes Eberflus and the Chicago Bears. For now, Eberflus is #26 on this year’s list of leaders.
Arthur Smith was born in Memphis, Tennessee on May 27, 1982. He is the son of Frederick W. Smith, the founder of FedEx. Smith attended Georgetown Preparatory School in North Bethesda, Maryland, where he played on the offensive line and was team captain. He also saw some action at defensive tackle. Smith also participated in track, lacrosse, and basketball. In high school, Smith was a first-team all-state selection at offensive line, two-time all-conference, and first-team All-Metro by The Washington Post.
After high school, Smith attended the University of North Carolina and played college football for the Tar Heels from 2004 to 2007. He was a four-year starter at offensive guard and was named to the All-ACC Academic Team in 2006 and 2007.
After college, Smith began coaching as a graduate assistant at Central Florida in 2008. He then spent two seasons as an offensive line coach at Western Kentucky (2009-2010) before being hired by the Atlanta Falcons as an offensive quality control coach in 2011.
Smith spent the next five seasons with the Falcons, working his way up to offensive coordinator in 2016. He was instrumental in developing quarterback Matt Ryan, who was named the NFL MVP in 2016.
In 2018, Smith was hired by the Tennessee Titans as their offensive coordinator. He led the Titans to the playoffs in each of his two seasons with the team, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game in 2020.
In 2021, Smith was hired as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. He is the youngest head coach in the NFL at the age of 39.
Accomplishments
- NFL Assistant Coach of the Year (2020)
- AFC South Coach of the Year (2021)
- Led the Titans to the playoffs in each of his two seasons as offensive coordinator
- Led the Titans to a trip to the AFC Championship Game in 2020
What Can We Learn?
- Be a good communicator. Smith is known for his clear and concise communication skills. He can communicate effectively with his players, coaches, and staff.
- Be a good teacher. Smith is a talented teacher who can help his players improve their skills. He can also develop game plans that exploit his players’ strengths.
- Be a good leader. Smith is a calm and collected leader who motivates and inspires his players. He is also able to make tough decisions under pressure.
- Be humble. Smith is a humble leader who is willing to learn from his mistakes. He is also gracious in victory and defeat.
Smith’s big challenge this year is starting with another new team. The Falcons have been revamped (again) so there’s little to go on but Smith’s average part performance as a head coach. So, for this year, he’s #25 on my leadership assessment of head coaches.
Mike McDaniel was born in Aurora, Colorado in 1983. He graduated from Smoky Hill High School in 2001. He played college football as a wide receiver at Yale, where he graduated with a degree in history.
After college, McDaniel began his coaching career as an intern with the Denver Broncos in 2005. He then worked as an assistant coach with the Houston Texans, Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and San Francisco 49ers.
In 2021, McDaniel was promoted to offensive coordinator of the 49ers. He helped the team to a 10-7 record and a playoff berth.
In 2022, McDaniel was hired as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins.
History in Football
McDaniel has been involved in football for over 15 years. He has worked as an assistant coach at all levels of the game, from college to the NFL. He is known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to get the most out of his players.
Accomplishments
As a head coach, McDaniel has yet to achieve any major accomplishments. However, he has been praised for his offensive creativity and ability to develop young players.
Scandals
McDaniel has not been involved in any major scandals during his coaching career. However, some criticized him for his lack of experience as a head coach.
What Can We Learn from Mike McDaniel?
Mike McDaniel is a young and innovative coach still learning the ropes. However, he has already shown a lot of promise. Here are a few things that leaders can learn from him:
- Be creative. McDaniel is not afraid to think outside the box and try new things. This is an important quality for any leader who wants to be successful.
- Be willing to learn. McDaniel is always looking for ways to improve his coaching skills. This is a valuable trait for any leader who wants to stay ahead of the curve.
- Be a good communicator. McDaniel can communicate effectively with his players, staff, and the media. This is an essential skill for any leader who wants to build trust and rapport with their team. “(McDaniel’s) all about preaching confidence to a guy and building him up, rather than trying to break him down,” former NFL passer Ryan Fitzpatrick said. “And I think that’s translated well.”
- Be open and honest. McDaniel has no limits to what he will discuss with his players to connect, empathize, and instill respect.
Overall, Mike McDaniel is a promising young coach who has the potential to be successful in the NFL. He is still learning the ropes, but he has already shown a lot of promise. Leaders can learn a lot from his example, especially his willingness to be creative and his commitment to learning. He built a beginning in the 2022-2023 season with the Dolphins. The team’s performance this year will tell us a lot about McDaniel’s leadership skills. For this year, he lands at position #24 on my list.
Kevin O’Connell was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on May 25, 1985. He was a star quarterback at La Costa Canyon High School in Carlsbad, California. He played college football at San Diego State University, where he was a four-year starter and set several school records.
After college, O’Connell was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played for the Patriots for two seasons but could never secure a starting job. He also spent time with the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, and San Diego Chargers.
O’Connell retired from playing football in 2012 and began his coaching career. He was a quarterbacks coach for the Cleveland Browns in 2015 and 2016. He then spent two seasons as the passing game coordinator for the Washington Redskins.
In 2019, O’Connell was hired as the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. He helped the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 2022.
Accomplishments
- Super Bowl champion (2022)
- Offensive coordinator of the year (2022)
- NFL assistant coach of the year (2021)
What Can We Learn?
Kevin O’Connell is a rising star in the NFL coaching ranks. He is known for his innovative offensive mind and ability to get the best out of his players. He is also a strong communicator and motivator.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from Kevin O’Connell:
- Be innovative and creative. O’Connell is always looking for new ways to attack defenses. He is not afraid to try new things, even if they are risky.
- Be a good communicator. O’Connell can communicate his vision to his players. He is also a good listener and is willing to take feedback from his players.
- Be a motivator. O’Connell can get the best out of his players. He creates a positive and supportive environment where players feel comfortable taking risks and trying new things.
Overall, Kevin O’Connell is a talented coach with a bright future. He understands that leadership is shared and actively encourages his staff and players to become leaders in their own right. O’Connell his the head coaching leadership list at position #23. I expect we’ll see him closer to #1 in the future.
Robert Saleh was born in Dearborn, Michigan on January 31, 1979. He is of Lebanese descent. He attended Fordson High School in Dearborn, where he played football, basketball, and track. He was a two-time all-state selection in football.
After high school, Saleh attended Northern Michigan University, where he played tight end for the Wildcats. He was a two-year starter named to the All-GLIAC Second Team in 2001.
After college, Saleh began coaching as a graduate assistant at Michigan State University in 2002. He then spent two seasons as a defensive assistant at Central Michigan University.
In 2005, Saleh joined the Houston Texans coaching staff as a defensive quality control coach. He spent three seasons with the Texans before joining the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff in 2008.
Saleh spent seven seasons with the Seahawks, serving as a defensive assistant, defensive line coach, and defensive coordinator. He was part of the Seahawks’ Super Bowl XLVIII championship team in 2014.
In 2017, Saleh was hired as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. He spent four seasons with the 49ers, leading their defense to the top 10 in the NFL in points allowed each season.
In 2021, Saleh was hired as the head coach of the New York Jets. He is the first Arab-American head coach in NFL history.
Saleh has been involved in football for over 20 years as a player and coach. He has worked his way up the coaching ranks, starting as a graduate assistant and becoming a defensive coordinator in the NFL. He is known for his aggressive defense style and ability to get the most out of his players.
Accomplishments
As a head coach, Saleh has been praised for his ability to create a positive and inclusive team culture. He has also been credited with helping to develop young players, such as quarterback Zach Wilson.
I also recommend reviewing Saleh’s advice for coaches. They easily translate into leadership advice as well.
What Can Leaders Learn from Robert Saleh?
Robert Saleh is a young and talented head coach with much to offer the NFL. He is known for his positive attitude, ability to connect with his players, and aggressive coaching style. Here are a few things that leaders can learn from Robert Saleh:
- Be optimistic. Saleh is known for his positive attitude, even in adversity. This is an important quality for any leader to have.
- Connect with your team. Saleh is a great communicator who can connect with his players on a personal level. This is essential for building a successful team.
- Be aggressive. Saleh is known for his aggressive style of coaching. This quality can benefit any leader, showing that you are not afraid to take risks.
- Be willing to learn. Saleh is always willing to learn new things and improve his coaching skills. This is an important quality for any leader, as the business world constantly changes.
Robert Saleh is a talented and inspiring leader with much to offer the NFL. He is a role model for young coaches and players and starts at position #22 on my list of leaders.
Dan Campbell was born on April 13, 1976, in Clifton, Texas. He played college football at Texas A&M University, where he was a tight end. After college, he was drafted by the New York Giants in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft. During his NFL career, he played for the Giants, Dallas Cowboys, and Detroit Lions.
After retiring from playing in 2008, Campbell began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Texas A&M. He then served as an assistant coach at Ole Miss, Miami Dolphins, and New Orleans Saints. In 2021, he was named the interim head coach of the Saints after Sean Payton was suspended for the season. He led the Saints to a 5-2 record in his interim stint.
Accomplishments
As a head coach, Campbell has yet to lead his team to the playoffs. However, he has been praised for his ability to create a positive and inclusive team culture. He has also been credited with helping to improve the Lions’ defense.
What Can We Learn?
Dan Campbell is a young and inexperienced head coach who has already shown much promise. He is a passionate and energetic leader who is unafraid to stand up for his players. He is also a gifted communicator who can connect with his players and the media.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from Dan Campbell:
- Be passionate and enthusiastic about your work.
- Be willing to stand up for what you believe in.
- Be a good communicator.
- Be able to connect with your team members.
- Be willing to learn and grow.
Dan Campbell is still a young coach, but he has the potential to be a great one. He is a hard worker who is always looking for ways to improve. He is also humble and gracious, always willing to give credit to his players. In 2023, he hits my list of leadership capabilities at #21. If he can continue to learn and grow, he has the potential to be a successful head coach and a genuinely effective leader for many years to come.
Kevin Stefanski was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 8, 1982. He played college football at Penn State, a four-year starter at quarterback. After graduating from Penn State, Stefanski worked as a graduate assistant at Temple University and an offensive quality control coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.
In 2006, Stefanski joined the Minnesota Vikings as an offensive assistant. He held various positions on the Vikings’ coaching staff over the next 14 seasons, including offensive coordinator from 2017 to 2019.
Accomplishments
- Led the Browns to the playoffs in his first two seasons as head coach (2020, 2021).
- Named Coach of the Year in 2020.
- Created a positive and inclusive team culture.
- Developed young players.
- Made adjustments during games.
What Can We Learn?
Kevin Stefanski is a young, rising star in the NFL coaching ranks. He has a lot to offer as a leader, including:
- The ability to create a positive and inclusive team culture.
- The ability to develop young players.
- The ability to make adjustments during games.
- The ability to communicate effectively with his players, the media, and the public.
Stefanski is still relatively inexperienced as a head coach but has shown much promise. His efforts to change the culture of the Browns has gotten considerable coverage in the press. He is a coach to watch in the years to come.
Here are some additional thoughts on what leaders can learn from Kevin Stefanski:
- Be humble and open to feedback. Stefanski is known for his willingness to take feedback and learn from his mistakes. This is an important quality for any leader to have.
- Be patient and persistent. Stefanski has had to be patient in his career. He worked his way up the coaching ranks and didn’t get his first head coaching job until he was 38. He has also had to be persistent in the face of adversity. The Browns have had a long history of losing, but Stefanski has been able to turn things around and lead them to the playoffs in two of his first three seasons.
- Be a good communicator. Stefanski communicates well with his players, the media, and the public. He can clearly articulate his vision for the team and get everyone on the same page.
- Be a good decision-maker. Stefanski has made some good decisions in his career, such as drafting Baker Mayfield and hiring Andrew Berry as general manager. He has also made some mistakes but has learned from them and become a better decision-maker.
Kevin Stefanski is a young, talented coach with much to offer. He lands at position #20 on this year’s list of head coaches. I believe he shows considerable promise and can’t wait to re-evaluate his position on this list when the 2024 line-up of NFL head coaches is set.
Brandon Staley was born in Reno, Nevada on February 23, 1982. He played college football at the University of Dayton, where he was a two-year starter at safety. After graduating from Dayton in 2004, Staley began coaching as a graduate assistant at Northern Illinois University. He then spent two seasons as a defensive quality control coach at San Diego State University.
In 2008, Staley was hired by the Denver Broncos as a defensive assistant. He spent four seasons with the Broncos, working his way up to the position of defensive backs coach. In 2012, Staley was hired by the Chicago Bears as their defensive coordinator. He spent two seasons with the Bears, helping them to a 10-6 record in 2015.
In 2017, Staley was hired by the Los Angeles Rams as their defensive coordinator. He spent three seasons with the Rams, helping them to a 13-3 record in 2018 and a Super Bowl appearance in 2020.
In 2021, Staley was hired by the Los Angeles Chargers as their head coach. He led the Chargers to a 9-8 record in his first season, their first winning season since 2018.
Staley has been involved in football for over 20 years as a player and coach. He has worked at the college and NFL levels and has experience in various roles, including defensive coordinator and head coach.
Accomplishments
- NFL’s Assistant Coach of the Year in 2020.
What Can We Learn?
Leaders can learn a lot from Brandon Staley. He is a young and innovative coach who is unafraid to take risks. He is also a strong communicator and motivator.
Here are some specific things that leaders can learn from Staley:
- Be willing to take risks. Staley is not afraid to try new things, even if they are not conventional. This has led to some success for him, but it has also led to some failures. However, Staley is unafraid to learn from his mistakes and move on.
- Be a strong communicator. Staley can clearly and concisely communicate his vision to his players and staff. This is essential for any leader who wants to be successful.
- Be a motivator. Staley can get his players to play at their best. He does this by creating a positive and supportive environment and by challenging them to be their best.
Coach Staley’s players believe in him; that’s an essential part of being a leader. Despite the Chargers’ poor showing in the playoffs, the team’s six-game win streak that got them to the playoffs said a lot about Coach Staley’s ability to motivate and inspire. For this year, Coach Staley lands at position #19 on my list of head coach leaders. How the Chargers perform this year will tell us much about Coach Staley’s leadership ability.
Dennis Allen was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on July 1, 1973. He played college football at Texas A&M University, where he was a two-year starter at safety. After graduating from Texas A&M, Allen was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played for the Saints for four seasons before injuries forced him to retire.
After retiring from playing, Allen began coaching as a defensive assistant with the Atlanta Falcons in 2008. He then spent two seasons as the defensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos (2010-2011). In 2012, Allen was hired as the head coach of the Oakland Raiders. He was fired after two seasons with a record of 8-28. In 2015, Allen was hired as the defensive coordinator of the New Orleans Saints. He was hired as head coach of the New Orleans Saints on the departure of Sean Payton in 2022.
Accomplishments
As a head coach, Allen’s most notable accomplishment is leading the Oakland Raiders to a playoff berth in 2012. He is also credited with helping to improve the Saints’ defense since taking over as defensive coordinator in 2015.
What Can We Learn?
Dennis Allen is a talented coach who has shown the ability to turn around struggling teams. He is also a good communicator and motivator. However, he must find a way to get his teams over the hump and win in the playoffs.
Here are some things that leaders can learn from Dennis Allen:
- Be a good communicator. Allen is known for his ability to clearly and concisely communicate his message to his players and staff. This is an essential skill for any leader to have.
- Be a good motivator. Allen is also known for his ability to motivate his players to perform at their best. This is another crucial skill for any leader to have.
- Be willing to learn from your mistakes. Allen has made many mistakes during his career but has always been ready to learn and improve. This is a valuable trait for any leader to have.
- Be persistent. Allen has never given up on his teams, even when facing adversity. This is a quality that all leaders should strive to emulate.
Coach Allen has a difficult road ahead this year, and many expect him to fail. While Derek Carr (QB) has joined the team to replace Tom Brady (seriously BIG shoes to fill), Carr won’t bring success to the Saints alone. It will take a significant effort by the entire team, led by a head coach who lands at position #18 on this year’s list of head coaches. Will Coach Allen finish the year looking promising or looking for a job?
Zac Taylor was born in Norman, Oklahoma, on May 10, 1983. He is the son of Sherwood Taylor, a former college football coach, and Julie Taylor. Taylor played college football at Nebraska, where he was a four-year starter and set numerous school records. He was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2006.
After college, Taylor signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent but was cut before the start of the season. He then played in the Canadian Football League with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Taylor began coaching in 2012 as an assistant quarterbacks coach with the Miami Dolphins. He was promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2013 and spent the final five games of the 2015 season as the Dolphins’ interim offensive coordinator.
In 2016, Taylor was hired as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Cincinnati. He spent one season at Cincinnati before being hired as the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017.
Accomplishments
- Led the Bengals to their first playoff appearance since 2015 in his second season as head coach.
- Helped the Bengals win their first playoff game since 1990 in the 2022 season.
- Took the Bengals to the Super Bowl in the 2022 season, where they lost to the Los Angeles Rams.
- Named NFL Coach of the Year by Pro Football Focus in 2022.
What Can We Learn from Zac Taylor?
- Zac Taylor is a young and up-and-coming coach who has shown much promise in his short career. He is a good communicator and motivator and has a knack for getting the best out of his players. He already earned their respect: “Anytime something goes wrong or there’s an issue, it seems like people are calling for Zac’s job or whatever,” Sam Hubbard (DB) said of Taylor. “He’s done nothing but be a great leader and consistent force in this whole turnaround, and I really love Zac as a coach, and I’m thankful that he’s here.”
- Taylor is also a good strategist and play-caller. He has a strong understanding of the game and is always looking for ways to put his team in a position to win.
- However, Taylor is still a relatively inexperienced coach and has made some mistakes. He needs to learn to be more patient and to trust his players more. When leaders step in too soon, you will hear complaints about “micromanagement.”
Overall, Zac Taylor is a coach with a bright future. He has the potential to be one of the best coaches in the NFL and lands at position #17 on my list for 2023.
Leave A Comment