In football, as in life, leadership matters. The role of an NFL coach is not just to strategize plays and decide which players get on the field. They’re there to inspire, motivate, and pull the best out of their team. Today we’re diving into the legacies of five of the most successful NFL coaches in history.
Photo by Riley McCullough, free to use under the Unsplash license.
Bill Belichick
With his start in 2000, Belichick has made the New England Patriots one of the most successful franchises in the NFL, earning six Super Bowl titles, 9 AFC Championships, and amassing a career win percentage of over 68% as of the end of the 2020 season. Known for his brilliant defensive mind and infamous for his terse press conferences, Belichick has defined modern coaching.
Bill Belichick via New England Patriots YouTube
Don Shula
The Miami Dolphins’ legendary coach holds the NFL record for most career wins (328 regular season, 347 including playoffs). Shula led the Dolphins to two Super Bowl victories, and his 1972 team remains the only one in NFL history to have a perfect season.
Don Shula via CBS Miami YouTube
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George Halas
One of the co-founders of the NFL and longtime coach of the Chicago Bears, Halas has a career filled with success. With six NFL Championships to his name and 318 career victories, he was a sideline fixture from the league’s infancy until the mid-60s.
George Halas via At Mastro72 YouTube
Vince Lombardi
The man whose name is on the Super Bowl trophy itself, Lombardi’s career, though shorter than others on this list, was intensely successful. As the head coach of the Green Bay Packers, Lombardi won five NFL Championships in seven years, including the first two Super Bowls.
Bill Walsh
The architect of the West Coast Offense, Walsh turned the San Francisco 49ers from a struggling franchise into a dynasty, winning three Super Bowl championships in the ’80s. Walsh’s influence is still felt in the league today, with numerous disciples of his coaching tree achieving great success.
These legendary figures have shaped the landscape of the NFL and left an indelible mark on the sport. From the strategic innovation of Walsh’s West Coast Offense to Belichick’s modern dynasty, these coaches have redefined success and set the bar high for future generations.
Who is your favorite NFL coach? Let us know in the comments below and across social media.