A group of National Football League (NFL) head coaches recently shared insights into their transition from coordinator roles to leading entire teams, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned in their new positions.
Gary Kubiak, formerly a coordinator and now a head coach, emphasized the importance of trust in assembling a coaching staff. He advised new head coaches to avoid rushing the hiring process, recommending the selection of individuals who align with their vision and will support their leadership. Reflecting on early organizational tasks, Kubiak admitted he had not considered details such as seating arrangements or dress codes during team travel, noting these seemingly minor logistics gain significance at the head coaching level. A piece of advice from his father, who also worked in coaching, resonated with him: “It will get done,” encouraging a methodical, patient approach to addressing the many responsibilities of the job.
Tom Brady, now leading a team after a storied playing career, underscored the value of authenticity and clear communication. Brady stressed the importance of “not assuming anything” and advocated for over-communicating expectations and standards within the organization to avoid misunderstandings. He urged new head coaches to remain true to themselves throughout the process, advising them to coach their coaches and maintain their personal identity even in the face of pressure to alter their approach.
Matt LaFleur, another head coach who recently navigated the transition, described how smaller decisions, like choosing pens or whiteboards, became unexpectedly prominent details in his daily routine. However, he suggested focusing on bigger priorities and not sweating minor preferences. LaFleur echoed the shared philosophy of pacing oneself, cautioning against attempting to accomplish everything at once. He compared this to a player managing a demanding NFL season one practice at a time, encouraging a focused, incremental approach.
Joe Minter highlighted the significance of staffing choices, particularly the need to hire leaders whose coaching philosophy complements and sometimes balances the head coach’s own philosophy. He emphasized that successful head coaches double down on their strengths—whether offensive or defensive—and maintain their authentic selves to foster team buy-in and cohesion. Minter also credited Jim Harbaugh for encouraging him to embrace his readiness and “go be yourself” when stepping into a head coaching role.
Brian Harsley focused on the shift from being an assistant or coordinator offering suggestions to the decisive role of a head coach, who must make numerous decisions swiftly and confidently across all facets of the operation. He stressed decisiveness as a crucial skill, urging new head coaches not to hesitate when making calls on everything from practice structure to travel and nutrition arrangements. Harsley, like others, recommended maintaining authenticity, advising rookies to avoid emulating predecessors too closely and instead develop their own leadership style.
Overall, the coaches converged on common themes: trusting one’s team, effective communication, decisiveness, pacing, and the critical importance of authenticity. Their perspectives provide a valuable roadmap for coordinators stepping into the multifaceted demands of NFL head coaching.