Some NFL coaches have the memory of an elephant and the grudge-holding ability of a vengeful sitcom character. Whether it’s a media slight, a former player talking trash, or a front office betrayal, these coaches didn’t let it go—and probably never will.
From icy handshakes to revenge games circled in red ink, these guys turned petty into an art form. Here are NFL coaches who never forgave—and definitely didn’t forget.
11. Bill Parcells
Parcells was a legendary coach and an even better grudge-holder. Once you were in his doghouse, it took a miracle—or a Lombardi Trophy—to get out.
10. Rex Ryan
Rex Ryan turned rivalries into personal crusades. If you disrespected his team—or his shoes—he’d make sure to get the last word, preferably in a postgame rant.
9. Jon Gruden
Gruden never forgot anything—especially if it involved the Raiders or someone doubting him. Every game felt like a revenge mission in a visor.
8. Jimmy Johnson
Johnson didn’t forgive Jerry Jones for breaking up their dynasty—and he made that clear for decades. Even Hall of Fame honors couldn’t fully thaw that frost.
7. Chuck Noll
Noll was stoic on the surface, but he kept receipts like a tax accountant. He used slights as silent fuel—and you didn’t want to be on his bad side.
6. Sean Payton
Payton isn’t afraid to bring the receipts—literally and figuratively. From Bountygate backlash to opponent trash talk, he’s a master of the long-game grudge.
5. Mike Shanahan
Shanahan never quite let go of how things ended in Oakland, and he spent years quietly stewing about it. He later admitted that beating the Raiders always had extra meaning.
4. Buddy Ryan
Buddy Ryan had beef with nearly everyone, from opposing coaches to his players. He’d hold onto grudges like they were part of his defensive scheme.
3. Jim Harbaugh
Harbaugh’s intensity wasn’t just for game day—it extended to every perceived slight. If you wronged him, you better believe he remembered loudly.
Read more: The 15 Most Overconfident NFL Coaches of All Time
2. Bill Belichick
Belichick may not say much, but he remembers everything. From media slights to front office drama, he’s the king of quiet revenge.
Read more: Ranking the 18 Most Audacious NFL Coaches of All Time
1. Al Davis
Yes, he was more of an owner, but Davis was the Raiders—and he held grudges like championship banners. From feuding with the league to firing coaches mid-contract, Al made pettiness a franchise philosophy.
Read more: 12 NFL Coaches Who Thought They Were the Main Character
