New Coaches, New Culture: How 2025’s NFL Coaching Shakeups Will Reshape Locker Room Dynamics
The 2025 NFL season is poised to be one of the most transformative in recent memory, not just for the on-field action, but for the profound shifts occurring within team cultures. With a significant number of head coaching changes across the league, locker room dynamics are being redefined, impacting everything from player performance to team morale. As the Washington Commanders discovered after their surprising run to the NFC Championship game, a revitalized team culture can lead to unexpected success, but also heightened expectations. Let’s delve into how these new leaders are reshaping their teams.
The Offensive Revolution in Chicago: Ben Johnson’s Impact
The Chicago Bears, long yearning for offensive firepower, landed one of the hottest coaching prospects in the league: former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Johnson’s arrival signals a new era for the Bears, particularly for quarterback Caleb Williams. In 2024, Williams, despite showing flashes of brilliance, struggled behind a porous offensive line, leading to a league-worst 68 sacks. Johnson’s immediate priority is fortifying the offensive line, a task he’s already begun by acquiring veteran guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, and signing center Drew Dalman.
Johnson’s success in Detroit, where he orchestrated a top-ranked offense, averaging 33.1 points per game, speaks volumes. His ability to maximize quarterback performance is well-documented, and the Bears are banking on him to unlock Williams’ full potential. Johnson has also brought in Declan Doyle as offensive coordinator and Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator.
Vrabel Returns to New England: Accountability and Discipline
The New England Patriots, after a disappointing season, turned to a familiar face: Mike Vrabel. Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker and Hall of Famer, is known for his no-nonsense approach and emphasis on accountability. After allegations surfaced that certain players weren’t taking losses seriously in 2024, Vrabel wasted no time in setting a new tone, declaring, “The greatest compliment you could ever give a coach is saying, ‘your players played their asses off.'”
Vrabel’s return signifies a culture reset in New England. He’s already made tough decisions, moving on from respected team captains like Devin McCourty and Dont’a Hightower, signaling a new era of leadership. Vrabel has also brought back Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator, entrusting him with the development of quarterback Drake Maye.
Carroll’s Culture Shift in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Raiders, seeking stability and a winning culture, made a bold move by hiring Pete Carroll. At 73, Carroll is the NFL’s oldest head coach, but his energy and track record are undeniable. Carroll’s arrival marks a significant shift for the Raiders, a franchise that has struggled with consistency and identity in recent years.
Carroll is known as the “ultimate culture guy,” and his first priority is to transform the Raiders’ locker room. He’s also tasked with resolving the team’s quarterback situation, with many expecting the Raiders to pursue a new signal-caller who fits Carroll’s vision. Carroll’s choice of Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator signals a commitment to a strong running game, a hallmark of Kelly’s previous NFL stops.
Coen Takes Charge in Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Jaguars, after a series of coaching changes, are placing their faith in Liam Coen. Coen, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator, is regarded as one of the league’s brightest offensive minds. His success in revitalizing Baker Mayfield’s career in Tampa Bay has Jaguars fans optimistic about Trevor Lawrence’s future.
Coen’s arrival represents a strategic shift for the Jaguars, who are looking to build a modern, quarterback-friendly offense. Coen will be calling the plays himself, ensuring that Lawrence is in the best possible position to succeed. He has also hired Grant Udinski as offensive coordinator.
Schottenheimer’s Vision in Dallas
The Dallas Cowboys’ decision to promote Brian Schottenheimer to head coach raised eyebrows, but Schottenheimer is determined to prove his doubters wrong. Schottenheimer, who served as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator in 2023, is focused on changing the culture at The Star, the Cowboys’ training facility.
Schottenheimer’s changes extend beyond the field. He’s shuffled player lockers, pairing leaders like Micah Parsons and Dak Prescott, and added a ping pong table to the locker room to foster competitiveness. While the process to land Schottenheimer was unconventional, his vision for the Cowboys is clear: a team that is both talented and cohesive.
Glenn Returns to the Jets
The New York Jets, after another disappointing season, turned to a familiar face in Aaron Glenn. Glenn, a former Jets first-round pick and respected defensive coordinator, brings a strong leadership presence to the team. His hiring is reminiscent of the Houston Texans’ hiring of DeMeco Ryans in 2023, another former player who returned to lead his former team.
Glenn’s primary task is to instill a winning culture in New York. He’s also tasked with making crucial decisions about the future of Aaron Rodgers. Glenn has brought in Tanner Engstrand as offensive coordinator.
Moore’s Opportunity in New Orleans
The New Orleans Saints, facing significant salary cap challenges, turned to Kellen Moore to lead their team. Moore, the former Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator, is known for his quarterback-friendly schemes and ability to maximize offensive potential.
Moore’s biggest challenge in New Orleans will be navigating the team’s cap situation while improving their on-field performance. He’ll also need to make a decision about Derek Carr’s future with the team. Moore has hired Doug Nussmeier as offensive coordinator.
The Ripple Effect on Locker Room Culture
These coaching changes are not merely about X’s and O’s; they’re about reshaping the very fabric of team culture. A positive locker room environment can foster camaraderie, boost morale, and ultimately, lead to better performance on the field. As the NFLPA’s annual player survey reveals, teams that prioritize player well-being and provide quality facilities tend to receive higher grades from their players.
Brian Schottenheimer’s addition of a ping pong table to the Cowboys’ locker room may seem trivial, but it’s a symbolic gesture that underscores his commitment to creating a more relaxed and competitive environment. Similarly, Mike Vrabel’s emphasis on accountability in New England is aimed at fostering a culture of discipline and hard work.
The 2025 NFL season promises to be a fascinating one, as these new coaches attempt to implement their visions and transform their respective teams. While on-field success is the ultimate goal, the changes occurring within locker rooms across the league are equally significant. A strong team culture can be the foundation for sustained success, and these coaching shakeups represent a league-wide effort to build just that.