The National Football League Players Association annual report cards have quickly become one of the most revealing accountability tools in professional football. While wins and losses dominate headlines, these grades shift the focus inward — toward leadership style, communication standards, organizational structure, and day-to-day working conditions under each head coach. For players, this isn’t theoretical evaluation; it’s a reflection of their lived experience inside meeting rooms, practice fields, and locker rooms across the National Football League.
RELATED: 2026 NFL salary cap space rankings by team
Advertisement
This year’s head coach grades highlight a clear divide between programs with strong cultural alignment and those still searching for consistency. Coaches earning A-level marks were praised for transparency, clarity of expectations, and an environment that balances accountability with support. In many cases, players emphasized collaboration — feeling heard in decision-making processes and confident in preparation standards. Conversely, the mid-tier and lower grades point to communication gaps, structural inefficiencies, or cultural instability, particularly in organizations experiencing turnover or transitional leadership.
What makes these evaluations significant is their bottom-up nature. Unlike media narratives or front-office messaging, these assessments originate directly from the workforce — the players responsible for executing the product on Sundays. High grades signal more than popularity; they reflect trust, operational competence, and sustainable leadership practices. Lower grades, meanwhile, don’t necessarily indicate failure, but they do illuminate friction points that can impact retention, morale, and long-term competitive stability.
Sean McVay
Sean McVay
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay reacts with quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) after a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Team: Los Angeles Rams
Grade: A+
McVay continues to set the standard for modern offensive leadership in Los Angeles. Players consistently praise his communication style, preparation, and ability to create a collaborative culture. The A+ reflects a locker room that feels organized, competitive, and fully aligned with its head coach.
Advertisement
Dan Quinn
Dan Quinn
Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn looks on during warms up prior to the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Team: Washington Commanders
Grade: A+
Quinn has quickly established a tone of accountability and energy. Players appreciate his authenticity and the clarity of expectations he brings to the building. The high grade signals strong buy-in and confidence in his leadership direction.
Mike Macdonald
Mike Macdonald
Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike MacDonald celebrates with the Vince Lombardi trophy on the podium after defeating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Team: Seattle Seahawks
Grade: A
Macdonald has earned early respect for his detailed approach and defensive acumen. Players view him as organized, adaptable, and receptive to feedback. An A grade suggests a strong foundation and belief in his long-term vision.
Advertisement
Andy Reid
Andy Reid
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid looks on against the Indianapolis Colts at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Grade: A
Reid’s leadership remains steady and player-focused. His balance of discipline and approachability resonates throughout the roster. The grade reflects a veteran coach who continues to foster trust and high performance.
RELATED: NFL: Longest tenured active head coaches
Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on from the sideline against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Soldier Field. Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Team: Chicago Bears
Grade: A
Johnson’s offensive background translates into clear teaching and creative energy. Players respond well to his detailed planning and openness to collaboration. The A indicates confidence in his leadership despite being early in his tenure.
Dan Campbell
Dan Campbell
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) speaks with head coach Dan Campbell in the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Team: Detroit Lions
Grade: A
Campbell’s intensity and authenticity define Detroit’s culture. Players consistently cite his honesty and emotional investment in the team. The strong grade reflects deep trust and a unified locker room identity.
Mike Vrabel
Mike Vrabel
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel leaves the field at halftime against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Team: New England Patriots
Grade: A
Vrabel brings a player-first perspective shaped by his own NFL experience. His direct communication style and emphasis on toughness resonate strongly. The A shows players feel supported while being held to high standards.
Aaron Glenn
Aaron Glenn
New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn looks on before the game against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Team: New York Jets
Grade: A
Glenn has established credibility through transparency and energy. Players appreciate his defensive expertise and consistent messaging. The grade reflects confidence in his leadership approach and day-to-day structure.
RELATED: NFL: Teams still looking for their head coaches
Kevin O’Connell
Kevin O'Connell
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell looks on against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Team: Minnesota Vikings
Grade: A
O’Connell fosters an open, communicative environment. Players value his offensive clarity and collaborative style. The A suggests strong alignment between coaching philosophy and player expectations.
Nick Sirianni
Nick Sirianni
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni looks on after the game against the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field. Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Grade: A
Sirianni’s emotional leadership and competitive edge resonate in Philadelphia. Players respond positively to his direct communication and adaptability. The strong grade reflects belief in both his culture and game management.
Mike Tomlin
Mike Tomlin
Head coach Mike Tomlin before an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium. Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Grade: A
Tomlin’s steady presence remains a cornerstone in Pittsburgh. Players consistently cite his fairness, clarity, and leadership consistency. The A reflects long-term credibility and sustained locker room respect.
Sean McDermott
Sean McDermott
Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott during overtime of an AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Empower Field against the Denver Broncos at Mile High. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Team: Buffalo Bills
Grade: A-
McDermott maintains a disciplined and well-structured environment. Players respect his attention to detail and defensive leadership. The A- signals strong support with minor areas for growth.
Dave Canales
Dave Canales
Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales looks on against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Team: Carolina Panthers
Grade: A-
Canales has built rapport through clear communication and positivity. Players appreciate his developmental focus and energy. The A- suggests early success in building trust within the roster.
RELATED: Highest paid coaches in U.S. sports
Zac Taylor
Zac Taylor
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor looks on in the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Grade: A-
Taylor’s collaborative approach resonates in Cincinnati. Players value his calm demeanor and structured game preparation. The grade reflects solid player confidence in his leadership.
Brian Schottenheimer
Brian Schottenheimer
Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer looks on from the sideline during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
Team: Dallas Cowboys
Grade: A-
Schottenheimer’s offensive clarity and communication stand out. Players feel his expectations are direct and consistent. The A- reflects a positive reception early in his head coaching tenure.
DeMeco Ryans
DeMeco Ryans
Houston Texans head coach Demeco Ryans with cornerback Myles Bryant (25) on the sidelines during the second half against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Team: Houston Texans
Grade: A-
Ryans’ energy and authenticity resonate strongly in Houston. Players trust his defensive knowledge and straightforward leadership. The grade reflects strong culture-building momentum.
Shane Steichen
Shane Steichen
Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen on the SiriusXM NFL radio set at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Team: Indianapolis Colts
Grade: A-
Steichen’s offensive expertise builds player confidence. His teaching style and clarity stand out in meetings and preparation. The A- suggests strong support from the roster.
Liam Coen
Liam Coen
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen during the second half against the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wild Card Round game at EverBank Stadium. Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
Grade: A-
Coen’s structured approach has earned early buy-in. Players appreciate the clarity in offensive design and communication. The grade reflects optimism about the direction of the program.
Kellen Moore
Kellen Moore
New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore signals from the sideline against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at Caesars Superdome. Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Team: New Orleans Saints
Grade: A-
Moore’s offensive creativity and calm demeanor resonate positively. Players feel well-prepared and clearly informed. The A- signals strong initial trust in his leadership.
Kyle Shanahan
Kyle Shanahan
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan after the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Team: San Francisco 49ers
Grade: A-
Shanahan’s schematic expertise remains widely respected. Players value his attention to detail and strategic clarity. The grade reflects strong belief in his system and direction.
Jonathan Gannon
Jonathan Gannon
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon looks on in the first half against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Team: Arizona Cardinals
Grade: B+
Gannon has built a culture centered on energy and accountability. Players appreciate his defensive focus and communication style. The B+ indicates solid support with room to grow.
Raheem Morris
Raheem Morris
Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris on the sideline against the Los Angeles Rams in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Team: Atlanta Falcons
Grade: B+
Morris brings experience and relatability to the locker room. Players value his steady presence and defensive insight. The grade reflects generally positive feedback with moderate concerns.
John Harbaugh
John Harbaugh
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh reacts during the second half at Acrisure Stadium. Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Team: Baltimore Ravens
Grade: B
Harbaugh maintains strong organizational discipline. Players respect his structure but note areas for improvement in certain day-to-day processes. The B reflects overall approval with measurable gaps.
Mike McDaniel
Mike McDaniel
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel leaves the field at the end of a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Hard Rock Stadium. Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
Team: Miami Dolphins
Grade: B
McDaniel’s offensive creativity is well regarded. Players respond positively to his personality and communication. The grade suggests solid confidence with opportunities to strengthen consistency.
Sean Payton
Sean Payton
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) talks with head coach Sean Payton in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Empower Field at Mile High. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Team: Denver Broncos
Grade: B
Payton’s experience and authority are clear. Players acknowledge his structured approach and high expectations. The B reflects respect paired with mixed feedback on certain aspects of team culture.
Todd Bowles
Todd Bowles
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles looks up during the second half of an NFL football game between the Tampa Bay Buccanners and the Detroit Lions in Detroit, Michigan USA, on Monday, October 20, 2025 (Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Grade: B
Bowles’ defensive leadership remains steady. Players appreciate his calm demeanor but cite areas needing sharper communication. The grade reflects overall satisfaction with room for refinement.
Titans (had 2 HCs)
Titans (had 2 HCs)
Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan looks on during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Team: Tennessee Titans
Grade: B-
The Titans’ split leadership produced mixed feedback from players. While effort and professionalism were recognized, consistency in messaging was less clear. The B- reflects moderate approval with noticeable structural concerns.
Matt LaFleur
Matt LaFleur
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur celebrates with safety Xavier McKinney (29) after defeating the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Team: Green Bay Packers
Grade: B-
LaFleur maintains a stable offensive identity. Players generally respect his system but desire improvements in certain support areas. The B- suggests steady leadership with identified gaps.
Jim Harbaugh
Jim Harbaugh
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh looks on against the New England Patriots in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Team: Los Angeles Chargers
Grade: C+
Harbaugh’s intensity and structure are evident. Players recognize his experience but note cultural adjustments in transition. The C+ reflects a work in progress within the locker room.
Pete Carroll
Pete Carroll
Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll stands on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Team: Las Vegas Raiders
Grade: C+
Carroll brings energy and optimism. Players appreciate his positivity but express mixed views on overall structure. The C+ indicates moderate approval during an adjustment period.
RELATED: 7 coaching candidates to replace Pete Carroll in Las Vegas Raiders
Giants (had 2 HCs)
Giants (had 2 HCs)
Mike Kafka of the New York Giants looks on during the NFL 2025 game between New York Giants and Detroit Lions at Ford Field on November 23, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images)
Team: New York Giants
Grade: C
Leadership turnover contributed to inconsistency in direction. Players cited uneven communication and cultural instability. The C reflects a need for stronger cohesion moving forward.
Kevin Stefanski
Kevin Stefanski
Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski looks on against the Tennessee Titans during the first quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Team: Cleveland Browns
Grade: C-
Stefanski’s offensive structure is respected, but feedback suggests communication gaps. Players noted areas where transparency and alignment could improve. The C- reflects meaningful room for improvement in overall team sentiment.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn (center) looks on from the sidelines against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at Northwest Stadium. Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
In a league where marginal advantages matter, culture is no longer intangible. The NFLPA report cards quantify it — and in doing so, they provide one of the clearest lenses into how players truly view the men leading their franchises.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—
NFL:2026 NFL salary cap space rankings by team
NHL:Auston Matthews’ Olympic gold, Donald Trump visit, draws surprising reaction in Toronto
MLB:Dodgers manager bothered by Tanner Scott quote
ENTERTAINMENT:Team USA hockey stars set for ‘SNL’ cameo after Winter Olympics
SPORTS MEDIA:NBC Sunday Night Football set to make major change for 2026 NFL season
WORLD CUP:Iran could withdraw from 2026 FIFA World Cup amid Middle East tension