Nine former NFL players serve as head coaches in the league
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 12:42 PM
Last updated Aug 9, 2026
As of August 9, 2026, nine NFL head coaches have previous playing experience in the league. Sean Payton, Jim Harbaugh, Kevin O'Connell, Kellen Moore, Dan Campbell, DeMeco Ryans, Mike Vrabel, Aaron Glenn, and Todd Bowles all transitioned from playing careers to coaching roles. Each coach brings unique insights from their playing days, which span a variety of positions including quarterback, tight end, and defensive roles. This highlights the common career path from player to coach in football. The NFL continues to see a trend where experienced players step into leadership roles on the sidelines.
- •Sean Payton served one season as a quarterback.
- •Jim Harbaugh played 14 seasons before coaching.
- •Dan Campbell was an 11-season tight end.
- •Mike Vrabel transitioned from a 14-season linebacker career.
- •DeMeco Ryans spent 10 seasons as a linebacker.
- 12:42 PMYahoo Sports — 9 ex-NFL players who are now head coaches
"Mike Vrabel might be the only one on the list who was as good a player as he is a coach.
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