Becoming an NFL head coach is a dream for many football enthusiasts.
It is a position of great responsibility and prestige, requiring a unique set of skills and experience.
While the path to becoming an NFL head coach is challenging and competitive, it is not impossible.
Here we’ll explore the steps to take and how most head coaches get their start in the NFL.
1. Playing Experience
One of the most common paths to becoming an NFL head coach is through a successful playing career.
Many head coaches have played football at the college or professional level, gaining valuable experience and knowledge of the game.
Playing experience provides a deep understanding of the sport, which can be crucial when making strategic decisions as a coach.
Example: Bill Belichick, famously known as the head coach of the New England Patriots, played college football at Wesleyan University before starting his coaching career.
2. Coaching Experience
Coaching experience is another essential step toward becoming an NFL head coach.
Most coaches start their careers at the high school or college level, working their way up through the ranks.
This allows them to develop their coaching skills, learn different strategies, and gain valuable experience in managing a team.
Example: Sean McVay, most known the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, began his coaching career as an assistant wide receivers coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before moving on to various coaching positions in college and the NFL.
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3. Networking and Connections
Networking and building connections within the football industry can significantly enhance your chances of becoming an NFL head coach.
Attending coaching clinics, conferences, and seminars can provide opportunities to meet influential people in the field.
Building relationships with coaches, scouts, and team executives can open doors to potential coaching positions.
Example: Kyle Shanahan, most known as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, comes from a football family. His father, Mike Shanahan, was a successful NFL head coach, which helped Kyle establish connections and gain insights into the coaching profession.
4. Education and Certifications
While not mandatory, obtaining a degree in sports science, exercise physiology, or a related field can provide a solid foundation for a coaching career.
Additionally, pursuing coaching certifications, such as those offered by the National Football Coaches Association (NFCA), can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and enhance your credibility as a coach.
Example: Andy Reid, most known the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, holds a degree in physical education and has been certified by the NFCA.
5. Assistant Coaching Positions
Securing an assistant coaching position in the NFL is a common stepping stone towards becoming a head coach.
Assistant coaches work closely with the head coach, gaining valuable experience in game planning, player development, and team management.
This experience is highly regarded by teams when considering candidates for head coaching positions.
Example: Mike Tomlin, most known as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, started his NFL coaching career as a defensive backs coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator and eventually becoming a head coach.
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6. Specialization and Expertise
Developing expertise in a specific area of the game can set you apart from other coaching candidates.
Specializing in offense, defense, or special teams can make you a valuable asset to a team.
Coaches who excel in their specialized area often receive recognition and opportunities for advancement.
Example: Sean Payton is known for his offensive expertise and innovative play-calling.
7. Success at Lower Levels
Success as a head coach at lower levels, such as high school or college, can significantly increase your chances of becoming an NFL head coach.
Winning records, championships, and the ability to develop players who go on to succeed at higher levels can attract the attention of NFL teams.
Example: Kliff Kingsbury had a successful college coaching career at Texas Tech University before being hired by the Cardinals.
8. Continuous Learning and Adaptation
The NFL is a constantly evolving league, and successful head coaches must be willing to adapt to new strategies, technologies, and trends.
Continuously learning and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the game can make you a more attractive candidate for head coaching positions.
Example: Pete Carroll, most known as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks and USC, is known for his ability to adapt to changing circumstances and implement innovative strategies.
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9. Patience and Persistence
Becoming an NFL head coach is not an overnight process and there are only 32 positions.
It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to start at lower levels and work your way up.
Many successful head coaches have faced setbacks and rejections along the way but remained determined to achieve their goals.
Example: Bruce Arians spent several years as an assistant coach before finally getting his opportunity as a head coach.
10. Seizing Opportunities
Opportunities to become an NFL head coach can arise unexpectedly.
Being prepared and ready to seize these opportunities is crucial.
This may involve taking on interim coaching positions, accepting assistant coaching roles in the NFL, or even coaching in other football leagues to gain experience and exposure.
Example: Doug Pederson started his coaching career in high school before working his way up to the NFL and eventually winning a Super Bowl.
FAQs – How to Become an NFL Head Coach
1. What qualifications do you need to become an NFL head coach?
To become an NFL head coach, qualifications typically include playing experience, coaching experience, networking, education, and specialization.
While not mandatory, a degree in sports science or a related field can be beneficial.
Additionally, obtaining coaching certifications can enhance your credibility as a coach.
2. Can you become an NFL head coach without playing in the NFL?
While playing in the NFL can provide valuable experience and insights into the game, it is not a requirement to become an NFL head coach.
Many successful head coaches have had playing careers at the college or lower levels.
3. How important is coaching experience in becoming an NFL head coach?
Coaching experience is highly important in becoming an NFL head coach.
Starting at lower levels, such as high school or college, allows aspiring coaches to develop their skills, learn different strategies, and gain valuable experience in managing a team.
4. How can networking help in becoming an NFL head coach?
Networking and building connections within the football industry can significantly enhance your chances of becoming an NFL head coach.
Attending coaching clinics, conferences, and seminars provides opportunities to meet influential people in the field.
Building relationships with coaches, scouts, and team executives can open doors to potential coaching positions.
5. Is specialization important in becoming an NFL head coach?
Developing expertise in a specific area of the game, such as offense, defense, or special teams, can set you apart from other coaching candidates.
Specialization can make you a valuable asset to a team and increase your chances of becoming an NFL head coach.
6. How can success at lower levels help in becoming an NFL head coach?
Success as a head coach at lower levels, such as high school or college, can significantly increase your chances of becoming an NFL head coach.
Winning records, championships, and the ability to develop players who go on to succeed at higher levels can attract the attention of NFL teams.
7. How important is continuous learning in becoming an NFL head coach?
Continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the game are crucial for aspiring NFL head coaches.
The NFL is a constantly evolving league, and successful head coaches must be willing to adapt to new strategies, technologies, and trends.
8. Is patience important in becoming an NFL head coach?
Patience is essential in becoming an NFL head coach.
It is not an overnight process, and many successful head coaches have faced setbacks and rejections along the way.
Remaining patient and persistent is key to achieving the goal of becoming an NFL head coach.
9. How can you seize opportunities to become an NFL head coach?
Opportunities to become an NFL head coach can arise unexpectedly.
Being prepared and ready to seize these opportunities is important.
This may involve taking on interim coaching positions, accepting assistant coaching roles in the NFL, or even coaching in other football leagues to gain experience and exposure.
10. What qualities do NFL teams look for in a head coach?
NFL teams look for head coaches who possess strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, the ability to motivate players, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the game.
They also value coaches who can adapt to changing circumstances and implement innovative strategies.
Summary
Becoming an NFL head coach requires a combination of playing experience, coaching experience, networking, education, and specialization.
Most head coaches start their careers at lower levels, such as high school or college, and work their way up through assistant coaching positions.
Success at lower levels, continuous learning, and seizing opportunities are also crucial factors in becoming an NFL head coach.
While the path may be challenging and competitive, with dedication, persistence, and a passion for the game, aspiring coaches can increase their chances of achieving their dream of becoming an NFL head coach.
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