The Quick Report

Screaming from the Sidelines: The NFL’s 14 Angriest Ever Coaches, Ranked

14. Nick Saban

Alabama Football Coach Nick Saban Visits the NIM
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Though primarily a college coach, Saban’s sideline temper at Alabama is legendary. He briefly coached the Miami Dolphins, where his animated sideline antics were also on display.

13. George Halas

Pete Rozelle and George Halas
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“Papa Bear” Halas was one of the founding fathers of the NFL, but he was also known for his fiery temper and sideline shouting, setting the tone for passionate coaching.

12. Mike Singletary

Mike Singletary
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The former linebacker brought his fiery personality to the sidelines as a coach. His yelling — and intense glares — were impossible to miss.

11. Sean Payton

Sean Payton
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Payton’s competitive spirit sometimes spilled over into visible frustration, whether it was directed at referees, players, or poor execution.

10. Dan Reeves

Dan Reeves
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Reeves was a fierce competitor who couldn’t hide his emotions when the game got heated. His visible frustration and shouting at players were often caught on camera.

9. Bill Cowher

Casey Hampton and Bill Cowher pregame 2006-11-26 (cropped)
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The “Chin” was known for his intensity. Cowher’s sideline scowls, pointed finger-wagging, and vocal tirades were staples during his Steelers tenure.

8. Brian Billick

Brian Billick & Coach Zauner (cropped)
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Though known as an offensive mind, Billick’s temper on the sidelines during high-pressure games made for memorable TV moments. He had no problem berating officials or players.

7. Jerry Glanville

Jerry Glanville
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With his larger-than-life personality, Glanville wasn’t afraid to let the officials or his players know exactly what he thought. His sideline tantrums were legendary.

6. Rex Ryan

New York Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan
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Rex was a fiery and emotional presence. While his humor was notable, his shouting matches and sideline rants often revealed his fiery temper during tense games.

5. Tom Coughlin

Tom Coughlin
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A strict disciplinarian, Coughlin was not shy about losing his cool on the sideline. He was known for yelling at players and officials, with his intensity often cranked up to 11.

4. Jim Mora

Jim Mora in El Paso (cropped)
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Best remembered for his “Playoffs?!” rant, Mora was equally animated on the sidelines. His anger and frustration often bubbled over in full view of the cameras.

3. Jon Gruden

Jon Gruden
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Nicknamed “Chucky” for a reason. Gruden’s sideline scowls, red-faced yelling, and animated frustration often stole the show. His rage could erupt at players, refs, or anyone nearby.

Related: Every NFL Head Coach, Ranked from Worst to Best

2. Mike Ditka

Mike Ditka
Photo by Rae Z/A

Known for leading the ’85 Bears, Ditka’s fiery temper and explosive sideline outbursts were iconic. He’d throw clipboards, berate officials, and shout at players like no one else.

Related: Every NFL Quarterback-Coach Duo, Ranked From Worst To Best

1. Bill Parcells

Bill Parcells
By US Air Force, Public Domain

The “Big Tuna” was legendary for his blunt, no-nonsense demeanor and would often tear into players, assistants, or referees during games. His sideline rants were unforgettable.

Related: Why These NFL Coaches Didn’t Deserve Super Bowl Rings