Pro Football History.com Blog

By Stephen Juza

July 19th, 2024

As the current training camp comes to a close, we examine the coaching landscape with our updated look at the active coaching trees. While coaching tree influence can be debated in a coach’s career, they can be a fun way to look at league history over time. As hot coaching trends take the league by storm, you can often trace several coaching hires that stem from a team or a philosophy over time as league priorities shift. While inclusion in a tree may be subjective, here’s how the current head coaches group together entering the 2024 season.

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Andy Reid

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid continues his streak of the largest active coaching tree in the league with four former assistants currently leading NFL teams. The road to the Super Bowl continues to run through him and his former assistants. In 2023, three of the divisions were won by either him or a former assistant, with one other leading their team to a wildcard appearance.

We have written recently about Reid’s continued dominance, with an outside shot at achieving the NFL wins record by the end of his current contract extension. Entering 2024, the Chiefs have an outstanding shot to become the first team in NFL history to win three straight Super Bowls, and while the task is always going to be difficult, the odds appear to be in their favor.

Reid’s coaching tree is one of the most expansive in recent NFL history, with several notable standouts. Current tree branches include John Harbaugh, Todd Bowles, Doug Pederson, and Sean McDermott. Overall, his tree boasts an average win percentage of 55%, 23 playoff wins, and two Super Bowls across the eleven branches.

Kyle Shanahan:

Kyle Shanahan, Reid’s opponent in last year’s Super Bowl, is tied for the second largest active coaching tree. Despite losing talented coaches to other teams, he has kept the team in Super Bowl contention for several years. His latest coach to take over a team, DeMeco Ryans, led the Houston Texans to a division championship in his first season at the top job after winning Assistant Coach of the Year in 2022.

Despite Ryans hiring several 49ers assistants to key positions in his first coaching staff, Shanahan was able to keep the team competitive after the continued emergence of quarterback Brock Purdy. Throughout the 2023 season, both Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey were talked about in the MVP race, and both players figure to be in the conversation again in 2024.

Beyond Ryans, Shanahan’s current coaching tree includes AFC East rivals Mike McDaniel and Robert Saleh. Both coaches are entering a crucial 2024 season. McDaniel is hoping to avoid another late-season collapse (2-4 in the final games of 2023 and 1-6 in 2022). Saleh is needing the Jets to take a major step forward after starting his head coaching career with three-straight losing seasons.

Sean McVay:

Sean McVay has had some rollercoaster seasons out in Los Angeles. After taking the league by storm as one of the youngest head coaches ever hired, and the youngest to ever reach the Super Bowl, his offensive coaching staff has routinely been hired away as offensive coordinators became head coaches. Despite this, his offense has kept on clicking, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in 2021. McVay has three active coaches in his coaching tree: Zac Taylor, Matt LaFleur, and Kevin O'Connell. While each has had some success in their short careers thus far, Taylor is the shining star of the bunch. After a slow start to his Bengals career, he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance, losing to the Rams in 2021. He followed up that season with 12 wins and an appearance in the AFC Championship game in 2022. LaFleur and O’Connell had success early for their respective teams, but that success has not translated into much playoff success.

Sean Payton:

After returning to the sideline after a brief time away from the NFL, Sean Payton brought a lot of bluster to the Broncos, but without the results to follow. After making a blockbuster trade for quarterback Russell Wilson, what followed was nothing short of disappointment for the team. Wilson didn’t even make it through an entire season as the starting quarterback, and the Broncos limped to the seventh straight losing season.

During Payton’s long career in New Orleans, he had four assistants continue on to be head coaches, and two of them remain actively coaching into 2024. Dan Campbell had an incredibly slow start in the Motor City, going 3-13-1 in his first season and starting 1-6 in his second before turning it around to finish 9-8. Campbell rewarded the Lions’ patience in 2023 with their first division title since 1993. The other active coach, Dennis Allen, replaced Payton in New Orleans but has yet to reach any measure of success, finishing second in the division both years.

Nick Sirianni:

Our least experienced coach in our list is Nick Sirianni. While it’s far from certain if a successful coach will have successful assistants, the inverse is also true: Unsuccessful coaches may still have future successful coaches on their staff. Sirianni is a great example of this. Despite working for numerous underwhelming head coaches, such as Romeo Crennel, Anthony Lynn, and Mike McCoy, Sirianni was able to land a head coaching job with the Philadelphia Eagles. In his three years at the helm, he has led the Eagles to a combined 34-17 record, with a playoff appearance in each season and a Super Bowl appearance in 2022. Following that season, he lost both of his coordinators to the head coaching carousel.

Former offensive coordinator Shane Steichen went to lead the Indianapolis Colts, while former defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon went on to lead the Arizona Cardinals. With just one season under their belt, it’s too early to make any prediction about their future success, but at least Sirianni was able to keep the team moving forward. The Eagles followed up their 14-3 season in 2022 with a 11-6 campaign in 2023. However, both the offense and defense are being led by their third coordinator in three years, posing a unique challenge to Sirianni in 2024.

Mike Tomlin:

One of the notable outliers in this list is Steelers coach, Mike Tomlin. Despite being the longest tenured coach with the same team, he does not have an active coach in his coaching tree. This isn’t due to assistants being unsuccessful head coaches. Only one of his assistants have gone on to be a head coach after spending time on Tomlin’s staff.

The Steelers’ coaching staff has been one of remarkable stability. At the start of his seventeen-year career in Pittsburgh, he inherited several long-time assistants from Bill Cowher’s staff that continued to stick with him for many years, such as Keith Butler, Dick LeBeau, and John Mitchell. Not just that, but many former head coaches, such as Brian Flores or Arthur Smith, have joined Tomlin’s staff after being fired from their own head coaching job.

The result for the Steelers has been one of continued consistency, much to the chagrin of some die-hard Steelers fans. While consistency can be nice, the Steelers have only one season over 10 wins since 2018, their longest stretch of time since 1980-1991.

Honorary Mentions:

Not every coach fits neatly into a coaching tree or has numerous assistants to go on and lead their own team. Some, like Jim Harbaugh, simply have more of a track record in the college game compared to the NFL, and assistants are more likely to stay in the NCAA. Other times, a coach may have a long track record in the NFL, such as Mike McCarthy, but that never translates into coordinators that are hired away.

While coaching trees are nebulous in nature, they can be an intriguing way to map the history of the NFL. As hot coaching trends take over the league, you see many assistants hired away to install their own version of the trend. This has been going on for decades, and undoubtedly will continue into the future.

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Methodology: Coaching trees are often open to interpretation, but throughout the website we automatically place any coach in the tree of a head coach up to their first head coaching opportunity. This allows coaches to be in multiple trees, without limiting them to only one coach that they spent the most time with.

July 19th, 2024

The allure of NFL games continues to captivate millions of viewers worldwide. With high-stakes matches and dramatic plays, it’s no wonder these games dominate television ratings. Here’s what makes certain football games the most watched events on TV.

Football has always held a special place in the hearts of sports enthusiasts. The NFL, with its rich history and legendary players, has cemented its status as a premier sporting league. Watching these games live on TV brings the thrill and excitement straight to your living room.

Why Certain NFL Games Stand Out

Some NFL games draw more viewers than others due to several key factors. Rivalries between long-standing teams often result in high viewership numbers. These matches have a historical context that adds layers of excitement and anticipation. For instance, when two top-tier teams clash, you can expect millions to watch football live on TV, eager to witness every play and tackle.

Moreover, the storylines surrounding these games can significantly boost their appeal. Whether it's a quarterback facing his former team, a coach returning to a stadium where he once led, or a potential record-breaking performance on the horizon, these narratives add an extra layer of intrigue. Media coverage leading up to these games often highlights these storylines, building anticipation and encouraging more viewers to tune in and watch football live on TV. The drama and emotional investment these narratives create can turn a regular game into a must-watch event.

The Impact of Prime-Time Slots

The timing of NFL games plays a significant role in their viewership. Prime-time slots, such as Sunday Night Football, are particularly popular among fans. These slots are intended to capture the largest possible audience, often featuring marquee matchups that guarantee high ratings. Additionally, having games broadcast during holidays like Thanksgiving ensures families gather around their screens to enjoy football live on TV together.

The evolution of digital platforms has also enhanced the prime-time viewing experience. Many networks now offer complementary online content, such as real-time stats, multiple camera angles, and interactive features. This second-screen experience allows fans to engage more deeply with the game, making prime-time slots even more attractive. Social media buzz during these slots further amplifies the excitement, creating a shared national experience as millions tweet and post about the game simultaneously. This digital engagement has transformed watching football on TV into a more interactive and communal event, particularly during these coveted time slots.

Star Players Driving Viewership

Another factor contributing to the popularity of certain football games on TV is the presence of star players. Athletes like Tom Brady or Patrick Mahomes bring a significant following, boosting viewership numbers whenever they take the field. Fans tune in not only to support their favorite team but also to see these iconic players perform under pressure.

The influence of star players extends beyond their on-field performance. Many of these athletes have become cultural icons, with large social media followings and endorsement deals that keep them in the public eye even off the field. Their personal stories, charitable work, and off-field personalities create a connection with fans that translates into increased viewership. When these stars face off against each other, it creates a compelling narrative that draws in not just dedicated football fans, but also casual viewers curious to see these larger-than-life figures compete. This star power is a crucial factor in making certain games the most watched football games on TV.

High-Stakes Playoff Games

Playoff games naturally attract more viewers due to their high stakes. Each game can determine a team's chance at winning the Super Bowl, making every play critical. The intensity and finality of these matches are unmatched, drawing even casual fans to their screens. Watching football live on TV during these pivotal moments is an experience like no other.

The most watched football games on TV are characterized by historical rivalries, prime-time broadcasting, star players, and high stakes. As an NFL fan, understanding what makes these games so captivating enhances your viewing experience. Whether it's a regular-season clash or a playoff showdown, the excitement of football live on TV remains unparalleled.

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July 12th, 2024

As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, fans are gearing up for a thrilling lineup of games. The campaign gets underway on September 12th as the reigning back-to-back champion Kansas City Chiefs welcome the Baltimore Ravens to Arrowhead in a rematch of their AFC Championship decider next term. However, as the campaign rears its head, some stadiums will have more eyes on them than others this season. Let's find out which ones and why.

Gillette Stadium

Nestled in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Gillette Stadium is home to the New England Patriots. This year, it will not only host some of the most anticipated NFL games but also add further Esports events to its repertoire, like the Madden 17 event it hosted years ago. In recent times, competitive gaming has become a phenomenon, so much so that online bookmakers are even taking bets on some marquee events. The likes of Dota 2, CS:GO, and League of Legends betting has become commonplace in recent years, and the owners of the stadium are looking to capitalize on the growth.

However, that isn't our primary reason for putting Gillette Stadium on our last. No, our reason relates solely to the gridiron and the fact that the Pats head into the upcoming season without Bill Belichick as their head coach for the first time in two decades. Jerod Mayo is the man who has been tasked with rebuilding the ailing franchise and he has a new quarterback to work with as former North Carolina Tar Heel Drake Maye looks to fill the cleats of Tom Brady, who departed four years ago and has still not truly been replaced.

Things couldn't get off to a more difficult start for the Mayo-Maye era as they welcome the heavyweight Cincinnati Bengals to Gillette Stadium on week one. Cincy has a superstar of their own under center in the form of Joe Burrow, and it will be interesting to see how the Patriots' third overall draft pick fairs on debut.

Arrowhead Stadium

Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City is renowned for its electric atmosphere, especially when the Chiefs take the field. And this year, they will be under more scrutiny than ever before. The reason for that is that they head into the 2024 campaign as the reigning back-to-back champions, and they know that if the mercurial Patrick Mahomes can lead them to the first three-peat in NFL history, it will be regarded as one of the greatest dynasties in history.

Andy Reid's side finds itself in a favorable division alongside the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders, none of whom are expected to put up much of a fight when it comes to divisional honors. However, they have a difficult start to the campaign as they face two titans back to back, firstly welcoming the Ravens to Arrowhead on week one before also hosting the Cincinnati Bengals a week later, a team that has seemingly had their number in recent years.

Caesars Superdome

Caesars Superdome in New Orleans is another venue that will be buzzing with activity this season, primarily because it will host Super Bowl LIX next February. The last time the stadium hosted the Big Game back in 2013, it famously had a power cut that halted Super Bowl XLVII for 34 minutes, halting the momentum of the Ravens and very nearly seeing them lose the Lombardi to the San Francisco 49ers despite them holding a 28–6 lead at the time the power went out. Baltimore managed to cling on and secure a 34-31 victory, and it remains to be seen what drama unfolds in Louisiana early next year.

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July 10th, 2024

Twitch live streamer and professional football player Von Miller also had a disappointing 2023 year for the Buffalo Bills, where he did not record a single sack, and played in twelve games. Suffering from a torn ACL in 2022, Miller only recently discussed his problem, despite which he said in the interview with SI that he probably should not have been on the field in the previous season. Miller said, “It’s crazy how you get injured, they shut you down; you come back, to be honest, you really probably shouldn’t have touched a football; and by rule, you get judged on a product on that field.”

Playing Through Pain

Miller concluded he had to play through the sprained ankle so as not to pull out his teammates’ druthers. ”I thought, earlier, if I were at a later stage of my career, I would not want to lose any of my years. But at the same time, I should not have been playing out there.” At 34, Miller was not the same player he was before his injury; he moved slowly and could not find the proper footing, which left the spectators wondering whether the player could regain his former glory, which was lost after the ACL tear or whether he is too old now.

That Drive to Bounce Back

For all his problems, Miller is confident about returning strong in the following year, 2024. “I am outraged because I feel like people are judging me on that [last season],” he said. ‘’It is making me go back to that Von that I have not had for a while now I just want to get back to playing my style of football.’’ Miller made it clear in his offseason mindset that he wanted to return to the field and make plays like those from Pragmatic Play, which you can find when you click here, sacking quarterbacks and helping his teammates.

Part Played in the 2024 Season

The Bills expect Miller to be an inside rotational player from the edge behind Gregory Rousseau and A. J. Epenesa. Since the Bills’ pass-rushing line does not go very deep, it is vital for the team to record consistent pressures against passers.

The Bigger Goal: In a Super Bowl for Buffalo

Miller does not limit himself to the purification of one man’s soul alone and represents spiritual transformation as a part of the global process. Looking at the overall perspective of the company, the biggest team goal, as he asserted, was to introduce the first Super Bowl to the city of Buffalo. This dedication is pulled by the Buffalo Bills fans and the community, hence motivating him. “Josh Allen is a great player and man. He is perhaps one of the biggest people that I have ever had the fortune of meeting in my entire lifetime. Oh yeah, these guys deserve it, and I will do everything needed to ensure they get it,” Miller said, stressed out.

Overcoming Doubts

With major upheaval this past offseason, the same cannot be said regarding Buffalo in the race for the AFC title. Some forecasts omit skills still available in the team’s squad, among them star signal caller Josh Allen. This position has the potential to stabilize Miller’s career, hence giving the Bills a chance at the conference. If he can get back even a portion of his Hall of Fame ability, this would go a long way toward defending the team and keeping them in the ball game.

A Journey of Resilience

It is in this context that the narrative that Miller goes through to get back on his feet shows a story of strength and fight. His recent comments during the end of the previous season show clearly, as he stated the physical and psychological tribulations that a sportsperson undergoes after an injury. However, constant support and dedication to his teammates and his fans are qualities depictive of the spirit that defines athletes to the highest level.

Conclusion

Nevertheless, Von Miller is the real instance of struggle and determination to be fit and succeed all the time. While Champlain is gearing up for the 2024 season, it is time to get back in the groove as he plans to help Buffalo Bills in their first Super Bowl. Supporting his teammates and the people of Buffalo, Miller is ready to face his problems during a probationary sort of season and become a shaper of games again. In the next season, the world will see that he will work hard even after such disappointments, and he will strive to win for his team.

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June 27th, 2024

Travis Clayton from England is the newest addition to the NFL, marking a significant moment for British players in American football. This article delves into the history of other British players who have made their mark in the NFL. Explore why this is relevant and how it impacts the sport on both sides of the Atlantic.

The news of Travis Clayton joining the NFL is a monumental event, especially for British fans of American football. You might wonder why such a move is significant and what it means for the future of British players in the league. Let's take a closer look at other British players who have made an impact in the NFL and understand why their stories matter.

British pioneers in the NFL

When you think of British players in the NFL, you likely think of names like Jay Ajayi and Osi Umenyiora. These players not only broke into one of the most competitive sports leagues but also left a lasting impact. For instance, instant withdrawal casino uk highlights how crucial it is to have quick access to resources when you need them, similar to how these athletes had to quickly adapt to a new playing style. These trailblazers paved the way for future British talents by showing that it is possible to succeed across the pond.

The impact of these pioneers goes beyond just their on-field achievements. They have become role models for young British athletes who aspire to play in the NFL. Their success stories have inspired a new generation of players to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or where they come from. As more British players make their way into the league, it's clear that the path laid down by these pioneers will continue to be followed and expanded upon.

Challenges faced by British players

It's essential to recognize the challenges British players face when transitioning to American football. For starters, there are differences in gameplay, culture, and even terminology that can be quite daunting. Additionally, many of these athletes have had to leave their families and support systems behind to chase their dreams. Despite these obstacles, their perseverance serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how adaptability and resilience are crucial traits for any player aspiring to join the NFL from abroad.

Another significant challenge for British players is the lack of exposure to American football during their formative years. While the sport has gained popularity in the UK, it still lags behind traditional British sports like soccer and rugby. This means that many players have to work twice as hard to catch up to their American counterparts who have been playing the sport since childhood. However, the determination and work ethic displayed by British players in the NFL showcase their ability to overcome these obstacles and excel at the highest level.

Success stories worth noting

One cannot talk about British success stories in the NFL without mentioning players like Jack Crawford and Efe Obada. Both have had stellar careers and made significant contributions to their respective teams. For example, Efe Obada's journey from homelessness to becoming a defensive end for the Carolina Panthers is nothing short of inspirational. Their stories resonate with many aspiring athletes who dream of making it big in the NFL despite coming from different backgrounds.

The future of British players in the NFL

With Travis Clayton's recent entry into the NFL, it's clear that there is a growing interest and talent pool from Britain ready to make their mark. This trend signifies that American football is becoming more global, attracting talent from various parts of the world. The increasing presence of British players could potentially lead to more NFL games being hosted in England, further growing the sport's popularity internationally. This ongoing exchange enriches both American and British football cultures, opening up new opportunities for future stars.

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