When it comes to the big bucks in the NFL, no one is raking it in quite like the head coaches. These masterminds aren’t just calling the shots—they’re cashing in millions of dollars annually. From the legendary Bill Belichick’s Belichicks to rising stars like Nick Sirianni, these coaches are getting paid like royalty. Let’s dive into the juicy details and paydays of the NFL’s highest-paid head coaches.
New England Patriots: Bill Belichick, $20 million
With six Super Bowl victories as the mastermind of the Patriots dynasty, Belichick has cemented himself as the greatest coach in NFL history. His defensive genius was first showcased as the coordinator for the Giants’ two Super Bowl wins in the 1980s. Belichick’s game plans, incomparable leadership, and ability to constantly reinvent his team have made New England a consistent powerhouse. Indeed, Bill Belichick’s $20 million salary is fitting for a coach with an unparalleled legacy.
Denver Broncos: Sean Payton, $18 million
After a brief hiatus, the offensive guru Sean Payton returns with a massive $18 million payday from the Denver Broncos. As the former coach of the New Orleans Saints, Payton’s ability to mold player Drew Brees into an elite quarterback resulted in a Super Bowl championship in 2009. Known for his aggressive leadership, Denver is banking on Payton’s experience to unlock their potential and return to contention.
Los Angeles Chargers: Jim Harbaugh, $16 million
The fiery Jim Harbaugh brings his intense, no-nonsense coaching style to the LA Chargers for $16 million annually. Harbaugh’s success began at the university ranks, reviving Stanford into a powerhouse. He then took the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance in 2012, showcasing his ability to instill discipline and get the most out of his talent. With a loaded Chargers roster, Harbaugh’s demanding ways and obsession with fundamentals could be the spark to push them over the top.
Los Angeles Rams: Sean McVay, $14 million
At just 37 years old, Sean McVay has cemented himself as a coach worthy of a $14 million annual salary. McVay has practically transformed the Los Angeles Rams into a Super Bowl champion with his leadership and rapport with his team. His ability to develop players like Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford into elite quarterbacks makes him one of the brightest minds in the game.
Kansas City Chiefs: Andy Reid, $12 million
Reid’s offensive magic dates back to his time as an assistant under Mike Holmgren, where he helped develop Brett Favre and construct the West Coast offense. As a head coach, Reid won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in 2019 by blending his system with Patrick Mahomes’ talents. His ability to adapt and connect with players has allowed Reid to thrive for over two decades. All this has paid off handsomely, with a $12 million salary in Kansas City.
Baltimore Ravens: John Harbaugh, $12 million
Harbaugh’s hard-nosed, physical, defensive mindset has been the crux of Baltimore’s consistent success. His fundamental-based approach propelled the Baltimore Ravens to a Super Bowl win in 2012. With his exceptional attention to detail and ability to construct elite defensive units, it’s no wonder he earns $12 million annually.
San Francisco 49ers: Kyle Shanahan, $10 million
Bay Area native Kyle Shanahan returned home with a $10 million payday to construct his vision with the 49ers. Under his father’s tutelage, Shanahan mastered the intricacies of the West Coast offense before becoming one of the sharpest offensive coordinators in the game. San Francisco is betting on Shanahan to bring home its first championship in decades.
Buffalo Bills: Sean McDermott, $8 million
McDermott made his mark in the NFL by working his way up from a defensive assistant in Philadelphia. His position as the Panthers’ defensive coordinator from 2011 to 2016 paved the way for his coaching opportunity for the Buffalo Bills, where he is paid $8 million annually. McDermott’s ability to maximize talent and foster accountability has been instrumental in transforming the Bills into an AFC powerhouse.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Doug Pederson, $8.5 million
Fresh off delivering the city of Philadelphia their first Super Bowl championship, Doug Pederson brings his ingenuity to Jacksonville for $8.5 million annually. Pederson paid his dues as a longtime assistant before getting his shot in Philadelphia, where his skills were on full display. His development of Carson Wentz and trust in Nick Foles resulted in the Eagles’ magical 2017 run. Now in Jacksonville, Pederson faces a new challenge in revitalizing a Jaguars franchise starving for relevance.
Philadelphia Eagles: Nick Sirianni, $6 million
Nick Sirianni’s rapid rise from obscurity to leading the Philadelphia Eagles for $6 million annually is a testament to his abilities. After years of working as an offensive assistant with the Chiefs and Chargers, Sirianni’s creative mind caught the eye of the Eagles’. In just his second season, Sirianni masterfully blended his techniques with Jalen Hurts’ dual-threat abilities to guide Philadelphia to a Super Bowl victory in 2022.
Minnesota Vikings: Kevin O’Connell, $6 million
Despite being a first-time head coach, Kevin O’Connell commands $6 million annually from the Vikings. O’Connell started as a quarterback coach in Cleveland before joining Sean McVay’s staff in LA. As the Rams’ offensive coordinator, he played a pivotal role in maximizing their talent and designing prolific scoring attacks. O’Connell works with players like Justin Jefferson in Minnesota, giving him an ideal canvas to construct a system bound to win.
New York Jets: Robert Saleh, $5 million
Robert Saleh’s journey from 9/11 first responder to NFL head coach at $5 million annually is remarkable. Saleh struggled with the Houston Texans’ system before becoming one of the game’s elite defensive coordinators. Upon his arrival, his attacking 4-3 scheme immediately transformed a moribund Jets defense. With his energy and passion, Saleh is tasked with establishing an identity and culture change for a franchise in desperate need of stability.
Green Bay Packers: Matt LaFleur, $5 million
Matt LaFleur’s offensive ingenuity and ability to connect with players have made him a perfect fit for the Green Bay Packers, earning him a $5 million annual salary. Despite his relatively young age, LaFleur’s innovative schemes and collaborative approach have quickly earned him respect within the league.
Dallas Cowboys: Mike McCarthy, $4 million
The well-traveled Mike McCarthy embarks on resurrecting another iconic NFL franchise, this time in Dallas, for $4 million annually. McCarthy made his mark as an offensive coordinator in New Orleans before becoming the Packers’ head coach from 2006-2018. After a year of coaching, McCarthy returns with a keen mind for constructing game plans tailored to his personnel’s strengths. His steady hand could be the answer for getting the talented Cowboys over the hump.
Cleveland Browns: Kevin Stefanski, $3.5 million
While Kevin Stefanski’s $3.5 million salary is the lowest on this list, his impact in reviving the Cleveland Browns has been immense. After years of futility, Stefanski’s leadership has breathed life into the team. This approach spearheaded the Browns’ offensive resurgence built around a punishing run game and spread formations. If Stefanski’s upward trajectory continues, this bargain salary won’t last long.
