The recent performance of NFL head coaches highlights the ongoing struggle teams face in identifying the right candidates. Of the ten coaches hired in the 2022 cycle, five have already been fired, with more likely to follow. The success rate for first-year coaches this season is low, with only one coach, Kevin O’Connell of the Minnesota Vikings, standing out as a true keeper.
The pressure to win and a lack of patience and vision often lead teams to make hasty decisions when hiring a head coach. Many owners and general managers focus too narrowly on specific criteria, such as an offensive or defensive mindset, without considering other important factors like leadership skills and staff cohesion. This can result in hiring candidates who are ill-prepared to succeed in the role.
The process of selecting a head coach is challenging, but the high rate of failure suggests that improvements can and should be made. Recent examples of coaching malpractice, such as Matt Eberflus’ questionable use of timeouts, highlight the need for a more thorough and thoughtful approach to hiring.
The article also touches on topics like the Denver Broncos’ running back rotation, a notable upset by the CU Buffaloes basketball team, Oklahoma football coach Brent Venables’ unconventional celebration at Taco Bell, and former NFL player Shaq Barrett’s desire to return to the league. Overall, the message is clear: teams must do better in identifying and supporting head coaches to improve their chances of success.
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