Despite the multifaceted expertise of special teams coordinators, the NFL continues to overlook them for head coaching positions. Historically, only two have been directly promoted to head coach roles, highlighting a significant bias in the league’s hiring practices.
John Harbaugh, the Baltimore Ravens’ head coach since 2008, spent nine seasons as a special teams coordinator before transitioning to defensive backs coach in 2007. Reflecting on the trend, Harbaugh expressed disappointment, stating, “I thought if I was able to be successful, that it would open the door for those guys… It hasn’t been the case.”
Data from USA TODAY Sports reveals that out of 80 special teams coordinators since 2010, only 12 have been interviewed for head coaching positions, with just one securing the role. This pattern suggests a systemic bias, not necessarily linked to race, as approximately 75% of these coordinators are white.
Special teams coordinators manage players across offensive and defensive units, offering a comprehensive understanding of team dynamics. Their exclusion from head coaching considerations raises questions about the criteria NFL teams prioritize when selecting leadership.
The league’s hiring practices have faced scrutiny for favoring certain profiles, often overlooking the diverse skill sets that special teams coordinators bring. As the NFL evolves, addressing these biases remains crucial to fostering a more inclusive and effective coaching landscape.
