Ranking the NFL Playoff Coaching Staffs
As the NFL playoff season heats up, much attention is being given not only to the players who will take the field but also to the masterminds guiding them from the sidelines—the coaching staffs. These coaches play a pivotal role in strategizing and making real-time decisions that could ultimately determine a team’s playoff fate. To provide a clearer picture of who stands where, CBSSports.com recently ranked the coaching staffs of the 14 NFL playoff teams, offering insights into their leadership dynamics and performance expectations.
Houston Texans in Tier 5
Starting from the bottom, the Houston Texans find themselves in Tier 5. Led by head coach DeMeco Ryans, the team is supported by Bobby Slowik and Kevin Burke as the offensive and defensive coordinators, respectively. Despite their standing, much is anticipated from Ryans and his team as they seek to demonstrate their capabilities and defy expectations in the playoff race.
Room for Improvement in Tier 4
Tier 4 is home to the Washington Commanders, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, teams with storied pasts but facing challenges as they aim to reclaim their playoff glory. The Washington Commanders’ coaching staff includes notable names such as Dan Quinn, Kliff Kingsbury, and Joe Whitt Jr., all bringing a wealth of experience to the table.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers, under the guidance of head coach Mike Tomlin, are fervently looking to break their playoff drought, not having secured a postseason victory since 2016. With Arthur Smith and Teryl Austin at his side, Tomlin’s team will be striving to change that narrative.
In Tampa Bay, Todd Bowles assumes the head coaching mantle, backed by coordinators Liam Coen, Larry Foote, and Kacy Rodgers. This coaching lineup is eager to steer the Buccaneers back to the standards of success that their fans dearly expect.
Consistency in Tier 3
Moving up to Tier 3, the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles showcase consistency and ambition. Sean Payton, Joe Lombardi, and Vance Joseph form the coaching nucleus for Denver, each bringing a deep tactical acumen and past successes. The Philadelphia Eagles, under the stewardship of head coach Nick Sirianni, work alongside Kellen Moore and the experienced Vic Fangio as they set their sights on extending their playoff run.
Chasing Glory in Tier 2
Tier 2 features the Green Bay Packers, Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, and Minnesota Vikings. These teams are on the precipice of greatness, with coaching staffs that exude championship aspirations. Matt LaFleur’s association with the Green Bay Packers continues to prove successful, while the Buffalo Bills, led by head coach Sean McDermott, are perennial contenders whose playoff aspirations are more pronounced than ever.
The Chargers, Rams, and Vikings each possess dynamic and strategic coaching lineups, hungry to elevate their teams to glory in the high-pressure stakes of playoff football.
Elite Tier 1
At the apex, in Tier 1, we find the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Detroit Lions, organizations that have rightfully earned their elite status through exceptional leadership. Kansas City boasts a roster of coaching talent including Andy Reid, Matt Nagy, and Steve Spagnuolo. Their proven track record in significant encounters sets the Chiefs apart as a formidable force.
For the Baltimore Ravens, head coach John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Zach Orr personify resilience and adaptability. The Lions’ coaching unit, under head coach Dan Campbell with assistants Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, exemplifies determination and strategic prowess, aiming to make a deep impact in the postseason.
As the playoffs progress, observers will undoubtedly keep a close watch on these coaching figures, aware that the right decision in a crucial moment could be the difference between advancing further or packing for home. Each tier within this ranking offers a glimpse into the future possibilities for these franchises, as they aspire to cement their place in NFL history.