By Brooks Herb, PSO Asst. Director of Sports Content
Feb 02, 2023

Vince Lombardi signed a 5-year contract to become the HC of the Green Bay Packers on February 2nd, 1959, exactly 64 years ago today, so it’s a great time to look at the top 5 greatest NFL Head Coaches of all time with him highlighting the list.



The Head Coach in football is a title that goes beyond calling plays from the sideline, they are the backbone of the franchise that holds the responsibility of the entire organization. While they are often the first to blame and last to thank, a Head Coach’s job is sacred in the world of sports. Whether they are more of an X’s and O’s strategist or a motivator, each great coach has their distinct style that has propelled their team to success. The Head Coach’s play-calling, decision-making, formations, and leadership impact every aspect of the game.

Over time Head Coaches have become younger to bring a fresh perspective and modern approach to the game, utilizing cutting-edge strategies and techniques to maximize their teams’ potential. Yet whether it’s a veteran coach with a proven track record or a young up-and-comer with a fresh perspective, great HCs will always play a critical role in developing a team and pushing them the extra yards to eternal greatness.

The Head Coaches on this list did so much more than just win, they were able to establish a positive team culture, build dynasties, breed Hall of Famers, and change the way the sport is remembered. By leaving their lasting legacy behind, these coaches serve as pillars of football’s success and will serve as role models for the next generation of coaches for years to come. Honorable mention includes: Paul Brown, George Halas, Joe Gibbs, Tom Landry, & Curly Lambeau

Here are the top 5 greatest NFL Head Coaches of all time. Do you agree? Create your own rankings below! 


PSO Rankings

1
BILL BELICHICK

BILL BELICHICK FACTS:

– Most Playoff (31) and Super Bowl Wins (6) in NFL history

– 3x NFL COY | 2nd most career Wins (329) including Playoffs

– NFL 2000s & 2010s All-Decade | NFL 100 All-Time Team

 

While he is often overshadowed by Quarterback Tom Brady, Bill Belichick‘s ability to win year after year puts him in the conversation of one of the greatest coaches in the history of sports. If opposing teams have learned one thing in Belichick’s 48 years of coaching, it’s that nobody wants to face him come playoff time.

2
VINCE LOMBARDI

VINCE LOMBARDI FACTS:

– 2x NFL COY | 2x SB Champion & 5x NFL Champion

– NFL 100 All-Time Team | 3rd highest career WIN% (75%)

– Highest WIN% (90%) in Postseason history [min 3 GP]

 

Before his name was immortalized by being placed on the Super Bowl’s top prize, Vince Lombardi created the first NFL dynasty with the Green Bay Packers. Lombardi was more than a coach, he was the “maker of champions” with generational teaching and leadership skills.

3
DON SHULA

DON SHULA FACTS:

– 2x SB Champion | 4x COY | 1970s All-Decade Team

– Most Wins (347) in NFL history | NFL Hall of Fame

– Coached only undefeated team (’72 Dolphins) in history

 

One of three coaches to ever reach 300 Wins, Don Shula‘s legacy goes beyond the perfect season and steakhouses. The Colts and Dolphins legend had merely two losing seasons in more than three decades on the sideline.

4
CHUCK NOLL

CHUCK NOLL FACTS:

– 2nd most Super Bowl Wins (4) in NFL History

– 2x PFWA COY | 1970s & 1980s All-Decade Team

– NFL 100 All-Time Team | 9 divisional championships

 

The architect of the famous “Steel Curtain”, Chuck Noll transformed the Steelers from being one of the worst teams in the league into a team that won four Super Bowls in six seasons.

5
BILL WALSH

BILL WALSH FACTS:

– 3x SB Champion | 2x NFL COY | NFL 100 All-Time Team

– NFL 1980s All-Decade Team | 6 divisional championships

– 10-4 postseason record | Top-10 in postseason WIN% (.714)

 

Bill Walsh, the mastermind that built the San Francisco 49ers dynasty in the 1980s, revolutionized the league with his West Coast offense. Walsh took over the team at 2-14 and two years later they were Super Bowl champions.

My Rankings

Create your own '5 Greatest NFL Coaches of All-Time' rankings

 



 

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