The 2025 NFL Players Association (NFLPA) report card is out, and as always, it’s an unfiltered look at how players feel about their teams. No PR spin, no sugarcoating – just honest feedback from the guys who actually play the game. One of the biggest talking points? Head coaches.
NFL players ranked their coaches based on time management, receptiveness to feedback, and overall leadership. Some coaches earned top marks, reinforcing their reputations as strong leaders, while others received less flattering reviews. Let’s break down who made the A+ list and who needs to step up.
The Best In The Business: NFL Coaches Who Earned A+ Ratings
Six head coaches received their players’ highest possible grade, an example of their leadership and ability to build a positive team culture. These coaches stood out as the most respected in the league:
- Dan Campbell (Detroit Lions)
- Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins)
- Raheem Morris (Atlanta Falcons)
- Kevin O’Connell (Minnesota Vikings)
- Andy Reid (Kansas City Chiefs)
- Dan Quinn (Washington Commanders)
Each NFL coach earned high praise for efficiently managing players’ time and fostering a strong locker-room culture. At least 93% of their players agreed they used time wisely, with Campbell, Morris, and Quinn receiving a perfect 100% approval rating in that category.
Via @NFLPA 100% of Commanders players feel their head coach Dan Quinn is efficient w/ their time. He is 1 of 6 coaches across the league to receive a perfect score.
— Chris Russell AKA the 🐓🐓! (@Russellmania621) February 26, 2025
Players feel that Quinn is highly receptive 2 locker room feedback on the team’s needs, ranking him 1 of 32 in #NFL pic.twitter.com/pgIg0m1aza
For Campbell, O’Connell, and Reid, this level of recognition is nothing new. All three were also awarded A+ grades in 2024, proving their continued ability to lead effectively. McDaniel improved from an A to an A+ this year, while Morris and Quinn excelled in their first years with new teams. Both had previous head coaching experience, but stepping into these new roles and immediately earning players’ trust speaks volumes about their leadership.
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New Faces, Same Respect
Morris and Quinn took over teams that previously struggled in this category. Morris replaced Arthur Smith, who earned a C+ in 2024 with the Falcons, while Quinn stepped in for Ron Rivera, who received a C as Washington’s head coach. Their instant improvement in player feedback suggests a shift toward a more player-friendly environment.
McDaniel’s rise from an A to an A+ further solidifies his reputation as one of the league’s brightest young coaches. His ability to connect with players and keep the Dolphins competitive has not gone unnoticed.
Also Read: Which NFL Teams Have The Worst Workplaces? The NFLPA Survey Reveals All
NFL Coaches Who Need To Improve
Not every coach received glowing reviews. At the bottom of the rankings were:
- Kevin Stefanski (Cleveland Browns) – C
- Doug Pederson (Jacksonville Jaguars) – C
- Matt Eberflus (Chicago Bears) – C
Unlike the A+ coaches, these three struggled to earn strong player approval. Eberflus and Pederson, who both received C grades, were fired following the 2024-25 season, showing that poor leadership ratings often correlate with job security concerns.
The 2025 NFLPA Team Report Cards are here! 📊
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) February 27, 2025
Check out the grades for Head Coach, Ownership, and Treatment of Families, based on feedback from 1,695 players. pic.twitter.com/TbN5Vl2YjW
What These Rankings Mean?
Head coaches are more than just play-callers- they shape team culture, influence player morale, and impact how effectively a team operates. The best coaches listen to their players, manage time well, and create an environment where athletes feel valued.
The NFLPA report card isn’t just a reflection of individual leadership; it offers insight into which teams are building sustainable success and which ones might be heading for a reset. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, these rankings could provide an early look at which teams are positioned to thrive and which ones could be facing turbulence.
This report card validates the approach of the six A+ coaches. For those at the bottom, it’s a clear signal that changes must be made.
