The race for the NFL Coach of the Year award following the 2025 season has garnered significant interest, presenting a competitive field of candidates. This year”s contenders include Mike Vrabel, Liam Coen, Ben Johnson, and Mike Macdonald, each with compelling cases for the prestigious honor.
In the past decade, only three instances have seen a divergence between the selections of The Sporting News and the Associated Press regarding this award. With the close competition observed during the 2025 regular season, the potential for differing opinions looms large once again.
Mike Vrabel stands out as the leading candidate, having taken the helm of the New England Patriots in what has been a transformative season. His team achieved a record of 14-3, marking an impressive turnaround of nine wins compared to the previous year. The Patriots ranked third in offensive efficiency and eighth defensively, showcasing a well-rounded team effort. Vrabel”s leadership, alongside offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, has propelled quarterback Drake Maye to a breakout second year, solidifying their position as playoff contenders.
Mike Macdonald, head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, has also made a strong argument for the award. With a record identical to Vrabel”s at 14-3, Macdonald”s squad has seen a four-win improvement from the previous season. The Seahawks” offense ranks eighth, while their defense is sixth, establishing them as formidable opponents in the NFC. Macdonald”s strategic moves, including the hiring of Klint Kubiak as offensive coordinator, have revitalized their attack, making them a serious threat to contend for Super Bowl 60.
Liam Coen, coaching the Jacksonville Jaguars, has successfully implemented a balanced and explosive offensive scheme that has greatly benefited quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Under Coen”s guidance, the Jaguars finished the season with a 13-4 record, marking a remarkable nine-win increase. Their defense, led by Anthony Campanile, has also been instrumental in securing victories, particularly in a challenging division.
Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears rounds out the list of candidates, achieving an 11-6 record. Although he recorded the fewest wins among the top contenders, Johnson has reignited championship aspirations for the Bears. His work with the first overall pick, Caleb Williams, mirrors Coen”s success with Lawrence, although the Bears” defense remains a concern.
The choice for NFL Coach of the Year often hinges on subjective criteria, varying among voters. Some focus on teams that exceed expectations, while others emphasize quick turnarounds. When examining the overall body of work from this season, Vrabel emerges as the narrow favorite against Coen, despite the strong cases put forth by Macdonald and Johnson.
