What Is an Offensive Coordinator In American Football?
An offensive coordinator is a member of an American football coaching staff who is in charge of the team’s offense. They typically have a great deal of offensive freedom, meaning they are able to choose what plays the team runs. However, they must also be able to work within the confines of the head coach’s overall strategy.
Offensive Coordinators Responsibilities
An offensive coordinator is responsible for a football team’s offensive strategy and game planning. They work closely with the head coach to develop the team’s overall offensive game plan and ensure it is executed properly on the field. The offensive coordinator also calls plays during games, often using input from the head coach.
The offensive coordinator must understand all aspects of football offense, including passing, rushing, and blocking schemes. They must break down opposing defenses and develop strategies to exploit their weaknesses. The offensive coordinator must also be able to motivate and inspire his players to perform at their best.
What Makes A Good Offensive Coordinator?
Maximizes The Talents of Their Players: They must also be able to adapt their game plan to what the defense is giving them.
Good Working Relationship With Head Coach: They need to communicate effectively and be on the same page regarding the overall game plan.
Motivate Their Players: They need to get the most out of their talent and ensure everyone is working towards a common goal.
How To Become an Offensive Coordinator
In order to become an offensive coordinator, one must first have a background in playing and/or coaching football at some level. Many offensive coordinators start their careers as position coaches, working with a specific group of players on offense, such as quarterbacks, running backs, or wide receivers.
From there, they may be promoted to offensive coordinator positions either with the same team or with another team. If you can prove yourself at each level, you will eventually have the opportunity to become an offensive coordinator in the NFL or college ranks.
Why Do Some Offensive Coordinators Sit In The Booth?
Better View The Entire Field: They can see all 22 players and better understand what the defense is doing. This gives them a big advantage when making play calls.
Easier To Communicate With The Quarterback: The QB can hear them better and go over the game plan more easily.
Keep Emotions In Check: When things aren’t going well on the field, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and make poor decisions. But you can stay calm and make better decisions while in the booth.
How Much Do NFL Offensive Coordinators Make?
Offensive coordinators in the NFL can make quite a bit of money. The average salary for an offensive coordinator in the NFL is about $1 million per year, with the top earners making over $3 million per year.
Of course, salaries vary depending on experience, success, and market size.
Well-Known Offensive Coordinators In NFL History
Mike Holmgren: Holmgren is best known for his time as head coach of the Green Bay Packers, where he led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 1997. He also served as offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers from 1986 to 1988, helping the team win two Super Bowls.
Ernie Zampese: Zampese is one of the most prolific offensive coordinators in NFL history, having served in that role for several teams, including the Los Angeles Rams, Dallas Cowboys, and Cincinnati Bengals. He is credited with helping to develop the “West Coast Offense,” which revolutionized the way football is played.
Tom Moore: Moore has been an offensive coordinator in the NFL for over 30 years, serving with the New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, and most notably, the Indianapolis Colts. He helped lead the Colts to a Super Bowl victory in 2006 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive minds in football.
Norv Turner: Turner has been an offensive coordinator for several teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, and Minnesota Vikings. He is known for his creative play-calling and has helped several teams have successful seasons.
Gary Kubiak: Kubiak is currently the head coach of the Denver Broncos, but he has also served as an offensive coordinator for the Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens. He is known for his creative use of zone.
Conclusion
Offensive coordinators play a vital role in football; their work goes beyond simply calling plays. They are responsible for creating an offensive game plan, working with the quarterbacks and other players on the offense, and making sure that everyone is on the same page.
Offensive coordinators must also be able to adapt quickly to changes during a game. They are essential for a football team’s success, and the best will eventually be promoted to head coach.
