The 2024 NFL season has been full of ups and downs, to say the least. And, while the players make the headlines, it’s the coaches who craft the game plans, motivate the teams, and make split-second decisions under immense pressure. Despite the season not being over just yet, let’s go ahead and rank the top 15 NFL coaches of the 2024 season.
15. Todd Bowles — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Todd Bowles’ second chance as a head coach has seen mixed results, to say the least, but this season has been mostly positive. His defensive prowess has kept the team in most games, but the offense has been up-and-down with Baker Mayfield as QB.
14. Mike Macdonald — Seattle Seahawks
Not only is Mike Macdonald in his first year as the Seattle Seahawks head coach, but he’s also the youngest coach in the NFL. So, despite Seattle’s up-and-down season, he’s shown he’s capable of being a head coach in the league.
13. Sean McVay — Los Angeles Rams
A Super Bowl-winning coach, Sean McVay has been highly regarded for his offensive innovation since he first entered the league. And, while injuries have plagued recent seasons, McVay’s ability to adapt and rebuild makes him one of the league’s best.
12. DeMeco Ryans — Houston Texans
DeMeco Ryans is the real deal. In his first year, Ryans quickly improved the Texans’ defense and gave star quarterback C.J. Stroud a great deal of confidence to compete at the highest level. While the team still has issues to figure out, it’s clear Ryans will be their coach for a very long time.
11. Matt LaFleur — Green Bay Packers
Matt LaFleur’s record with Aaron Rodgers was impressive, and he’s also continued to have success with quarterback Jordan Love. In fact, he guided Love and a relatively young team to the NFC title game in 2023. Time will tell if this team will get back to a Super Bowl, but LaFleur has done well.
10. John Harbaugh – Ravens
A Super Bowl champion, John Harbaugh has consistently kept the Baltimore Ravens competitive with a physical, balanced approach. And now with quarterback Lamar Jackson, it really seems as if the Ravens could make a Super Bowl run.
9. Nick Sirianni — Philadelphia Eagles
Nick Sirianni’s time with the Eagles has had high highs and low lows. Reaching the Super Bowl in just his second season, Sirianni looked like one of the best coaches in the league. But, after a disappointing season in 2023, opinions slightly shifted. However, 2024 has been a strong year for the Eagles and they look like they’re back on track.
8. Andy Reid — Kansas City Chiefs
Alongside generational quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid has turned the Kansas City Chiefs into a true dynasty. Known for his innovative play-calling and adaptability, Reid has been able to sustain excellence year in and year out. While the 2024 Chiefs offense is not one of the best, he still finds ways to win.
7. Jim Harbaugh — Los Angeles Chargers
This is Jim Harbaugh’s first year as the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, but he’s already turned this franchise around after some pretty rough years. While they’re still sitting behind the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West, it’s clear Harbaugh was a good head coaching decision for the franchise.
6. Mike Tomlin – Steelers
Mike Tomlin’s consistency in Pittsburgh is unparalleled. In fact, he has NEVER had a losing season in the 17 years he’s coached the Steelers. Known for his motivational skills and defensive mindset, Tomlin’s leadership has kept Pittsburgh competitive year after year.
5. Sean McDermott – Bills
Sean McDermott has transformed the Bills into Super Bowl contenders and they’ve been one of the strongest teams in the league for a while now. Simply put, his leadership and consistency in Buffalo have made him one of the most respected coaches.
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4. Sean Payton — Denver Broncos
Returning to coaching with the Broncos, Season Payton’s experience is highly regarded. While his start with Denver was rocky, landing rookie QB Bo Nix has been successful thus far and they look to be heading on the right path.
Read More: Ranking the NFC NFL Coaches From Worst to Best This Season
3. Dan Quinn — Washington Commanders
Alongside rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, head coach Dan Quinn has turned this Washington Commanders team around. While they’re currently fighting for a playoff spot, more importantly, they have found their star for the future.
Read More: Every NFL Quarterback-Coach Duo, Ranked From Worst To Best
2. Dan Campbell — Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions used to be the laughingstock of the NFL, but Dan Campbell has re-energized this franchise and has turned the Lions into a formidable team. Known for his motivational skills, his leadership is finally translating into wins and Detroit looks like a legit Super Bowl contender.
Read More: Ranking the AFC NFL Coaches From Worst to Best This Season
1. Kevin O’Connell — Minnesota Vikings
Kevin O’Connell’s leadership has helped the Vikings reach the playoffs and stay competitive despite not having a star quarterback this season. Very few believed in the Vikings after they were forced to turn to journeyman QB Sam Darnold, but O’Connell has been able to get the most out of his team and players, no matter the circumstances.