The NFL draft is just a month away, prompting coaches and GMs to work tirelessly to evaluate prospects and determine who fits best on their rosters for the upcoming season. The success of these prospects will largely depend on the environment they enter, emphasizing the critical role head coaches and their staffs play in maximizing roster potential. With that in mind, here are three names to watch for the NFL Coach of the Year award.
Legendary coach Pete Carroll’s return to the NFL is a major highlight. With a successful track record at every level and the support of Tom Brady in his corner, Carroll is poised for success as he takes the reins of the Las Vegas Raiders. Coupled with a reunion with veteran quarterback Geno Smith, he finds himself in an ideal position to establish the much-needed culture that the Raiders have lacked for years.
While it may seem unusual to include a first-year head coach, Ben Johnson proved his coaching prowess as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Now at the helm of the Chicago Bears, Johnson has demonstrated his capabilities by assembling an impressive staff and prioritizing the addition of an offensive line to protect young quarterback Caleb Williams. If he can quickly reverse the Bears’ fortunes, his candidacy for Coach of the Year will be strong.
The upcoming 2025 season could be one of the most remarkable for Mike Tomlin, one of the NFL’s longest-serving head coaches. As the Steelers approach nearly a decade without playoff action, calls for Tomlin’s dismissal grow. Yet, he continues to prove that even with mediocre quarterback play, the Steelers remain competitive in the playoff race. Should a deal with legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers materialize and Tomlin elevate the team’s performance to clinch the AFC North, he could easily secure Coach of the Year honors.
The NFL boasts many talented coaches, but these three are certainly worth your attention as the new season unfolds.
