Being an NFL head coach is one of the toughest jobs in sports. Every season, these coaches are expected to win games, develop players, and keep up with ever-changing strategies.
Some excel under the pressure, while others struggle to get their teams on the right track. From first-year head coaches to Super Bowl champions, here’s a look at all 32 NFL coaches ranked from worst to best.
32. Matt Eberflus — Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears had high hopes coming into the season, especially after drafting quarterback Caleb Williams first overall. Unfortunately, those hopes have faded as the team continues to struggle under Matt Eberflus. Sitting at the bottom of the NFC North, it’s clear he hasn’t been able to turn things around.
31. Jeff Ulbrich — New York Jets
Jeff Ulbrich stepped in as the Jets’ interim head coach after Robert Saleh was fired, but the team hasn’t shown much improvement. While he isn’t the main cause of their problems, he hasn’t done much to fix them either.
30. Mike McCarthy — Dallas Cowboys
Tension is high in Dallas, and Mike McCarthy’s job security is in question. The Cowboys have bigger issues beyond coaching, but McCarthy’s time with the team seems to be running out fast.
29. Dave Canales — Carolina Panthers
Dave Canales took over a struggling Panthers team, and expectations weren’t high for his first season. With the team still sitting at the bottom of the NFC South, it’s clear they have a long road ahead before becoming competitive again.
28. Doug Pederson — Jacksonville Jaguars
Doug Pederson has proven himself as a solid coach, but the Jaguars haven’t looked right all season. With Jacksonville failing to meet expectations, it’s worth wondering if Pederson is still the right fit for this team.
27. Brian Daboll — New York Giants
The Giants’ problems aren’t entirely Brian Daboll’s fault, but he hasn’t found a way to inspire confidence either. Sitting at the bottom of the NFC East, New York looks lost and unmotivated under his leadership.
26. Antonio Pierce — Las Vegas Raiders
Antonio Pierce inherited a tough situation last season, and it’s too early to judge him harshly. The Raiders are still struggling in the AFC West, but he deserves time to put his stamp on the team.
25. Brian Callahan — Tennessee Titans
As a first-year head coach, Brian Callahan is still figuring things out. The Titans have looked shaky so far, but only time will tell if that’s due to poor coaching or deeper roster issues.
24. Darren Rizzi — New Orleans Saints
Recently promoted to interim head coach, Darren Rizzi hasn’t had much time to prove himself. However, he did help break the Saints’ losing streak with a win against the Falcons.
23. Jerod Mayo — New England Patriots
Jerod Mayo took over a Patriots team in turmoil, and the results have been rough. One of the worst teams in the league this year, New England has a lot of rebuilding ahead.
22. Jonathan Gannon — Arizona Cardinals
After an inconsistent first season, Jonathan Gannon has helped the Cardinals make major strides. Sitting at the top of the NFC West, Arizona has made noticeable improvements under his leadership.
21. Mike Macdonald — Seattle Seahawks
The youngest head coach in the NFL, Mike Macdonald has shown potential despite the Seahawks’ up-and-down season. His first year has been a learning experience, but he seems up for the challenge.
20. Todd Bowles — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Todd Bowles has had mixed results as a head coach. His defense keeps Tampa Bay competitive, but inconsistency on offense continues to hold the team back.
19. Kevin Stefanski — Cleveland Browns
The Browns’ season has been full of challenges, and Kevin Stefanski has been navigating a difficult situation. While the offense has had its moments, ongoing distractions surrounding Deshaun Watson have made things complicated.
18. Shane Steichen — Indianapolis Colts
Shane Steichen had a promising first season, but his second year has been unpredictable. Without a consistent quarterback, it’s been tough to fully evaluate his coaching.
17. Sean Payton — Denver Broncos
Returning to the NFL with the Broncos, Sean Payton’s experience has been invaluable. After a rocky start, Denver seems to be heading in the right direction.
16. Zac Taylor — Cincinnati Bengals
Zac Taylor led the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in 2021, but this year’s struggles have raised concerns. The team needs to find consistency to stay competitive.
15. Raheem Morris — Atlanta Falcons
Raheem Morris has done a solid job with the Falcons, leading them to the top of the NFC South. There’s still work to be done, but the team is heading in the right direction.
14. Nick Sirianni — Philadelphia Eagles
Nick Sirianni took the Eagles to the Super Bowl in his second season, but last year’s disappointing performance has shifted public opinion. He’ll need to regain momentum to stay among the top coaches.
13. Dan Quinn — Washington Commanders
With rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, Dan Quinn has helped transform the Commanders into a serious contender. They’re battling for the NFC East title and have a bright future.
12. Kevin O’Connell — Minnesota Vikings
Despite not having a star quarterback, Kevin O’Connell has kept the Vikings competitive. His ability to get the most out of his roster has been impressive.
11. Mike McDaniel — Miami Dolphins
Mike McDaniel has taken the Dolphins to back-to-back playoff appearances. While the team has struggled at times, his offensive creativity makes him one of the league’s top coaches.
10. DeMeco Ryans — Houston Texans
DeMeco Ryans has quickly improved the Texans, especially on defense. With quarterback C.J. Stroud leading the way, Houston looks to have found their coach for the long haul.
9. Jim Harbaugh — Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh has already changed the culture in Los Angeles. While the Chargers are still behind the Chiefs, he’s clearly the right choice for the franchise.
8. Matt LaFleur — Green Bay Packers
Matt LaFleur had success with Aaron Rodgers, but he’s also helped develop Jordan Love. Guiding a young team to the NFC title game last season proved his coaching ability.
7. Sean McVay — Los Angeles Rams
A Super Bowl-winning coach, Sean McVay is known for his offensive creativity. Despite injuries, he continues to adapt and keep the Rams competitive.
6. Dan Campbell — Detroit Lions
Once a struggling franchise, the Lions have become a powerhouse under Dan Campbell. His leadership and passion have made Detroit a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
5. Sean McDermott — Buffalo Bills
Sean McDermott turned the Bills into perennial contenders. His leadership and consistency make him one of the most respected coaches in the league.
4. Kyle Shanahan — San Francisco 49ers
Kyle Shanahan has built one of the most dangerous offenses in football. While he’s yet to win a Super Bowl, his coaching ability is undeniable.
3. Mike Tomlin — Pittsburgh Steelers
Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season in 17 years—a remarkable feat. His motivational skills and defensive expertise keep Pittsburgh competitive year after year.
Read More: Ranking Every NFL Teams’ 24-25 Season from Worst to Best
2. John Harbaugh — Baltimore Ravens
John Harbaugh has kept the Ravens at the top with a balanced, physical approach. With Lamar Jackson leading the way, Baltimore is a serious Super Bowl threat.
Read More: 13 NFL Head Coaches Who Deserved a Super Bowl Win
1. Andy Reid — Kansas City Chiefs
Andy Reid, alongside Patrick Mahomes, has built a dynasty in Kansas City. Known for his innovative play-calling, he continues to dominate the NFL year after year.
Read More: 10 NFL Coaches Who Stumbled Into Super Bowl Glory
