The NFL training camps are in full swing, providing a chance for football fans to celebrate as teams start their on-field drills and practices. The preseason will officially begin with the Hall of Fame Game between the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers on August 6. The rest of the first week will follow on August 13. As the regular season approaches on September 9, attention turns to the key offseason storylines for each of the 32 teams.
We have explored various topics, such as key position battles, rookies poised for starting roles, and players at risk of being cut. Now, the focus shifts to the coaches. After ranking the quarterback and wide receiver rooms by division, we move to power ranking head coaches in each division, beginning with the NFC West.
1. Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams
Sean McVay tops the list, primarily due to his Super Bowl victory. Despite Kyle Shanahan’s reputation as a better offensive strategist, McVay holds the Lombardi trophy, which Shanahan doesn’t. McVay has an impressive career record of 92-57, with playoff appearances in seven of nine seasons, four division titles, three NFC Championship Game appearances, two Super Bowl appearances, and one victory.
There is a strong chance of McVay’s Rams returning to the Super Bowl, especially after trading for Myles Garrett and potentially coaxing Aaron Donald out of retirement.
2. Kyle Shanahan, San Francisco 49ers
It’s surprising that Shanahan’s 49ers, despite their impressive performance since 2019, have yet to secure a Super Bowl win. Shanahan has guided the team to five playoff appearances, four NFC Championship Game appearances, three division titles, and two Super Bowl appearances, though they fell short each time.
With key players like Brock Purdy, Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and Mykel Williams returning healthy, and the talent of Christian McCaffrey and a strong defense, the 49ers could make a significant playoff showing in 2026. McVay may stand in Shanahan’s path if the 49ers advance deep into the playoffs.
3. Mike Macdonald, Seattle Seahawks
Macdonald, only two years into his coaching career, has already secured a Super Bowl ring. Although he lacks the experience of Shanahan, his success is noteworthy. Under his leadership, the Seahawks have achieved a 24-10 record and a Super Bowl title.
Seattle’s core, including quarterback Sam Darnold, star WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and a lauded defense, returns to the field, giving Macdonald an opportunity to further close the gap between him and his coaching peers.
4. Mike LaFleur, Arizona Cardinals
Mike LaFleur, entering his first year as head coach, faces a challenging situation. Unlike his brother, one of the top coaches in the NFL, LaFleur inherits a difficult roster with a weak defense and Jacoby Brissett at quarterback.
Rookie running back Jeremiyah Love and former top-10 WR Marvin Harrison Jr. provide sparks of potential, yet LaFleur might struggle to secure more than three wins. However, there is hope for improvement; he could use his first year to lay groundwork and potentially build around up-and-coming college QBs like Arch Manning or Dante Moore in the future.