New Coaches, New Strategies: How 2025 NFL Coaching Changes Impact Fantasy Football

The NFL is a constantly evolving landscape, and the 2025 season is no exception. With a significant number of teams ushering in new coaching regimes, the ripple effects are already being felt throughout the league and, perhaps most notably, in the realm of fantasy football. These changes bring fresh perspectives, revamped playbooks, and altered player roles, all of which can dramatically impact a player’s fantasy value. As we gear up for the season, it’s crucial to analyze these coaching changes and understand how they might reshape the fantasy landscape.

The Coaching Carousel: A Whirlwind of Change

The 2025 offseason witnessed a flurry of coaching moves, with several high-profile names finding new homes. The Chicago Bears snagged Ben Johnson, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, while Mike Vrabel, a Patriots legend, returned to New England to take the head coaching job. Other notable moves include Liam Coen to the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kellen Moore landing with the New Orleans Saints. These changes represent more than just a shuffling of personnel; they signify a potential shift in team philosophies and offensive strategies.

Ben Johnson to Chicago: A Boon for Caleb Williams?

One of the most talked-about moves of the offseason was Ben Johnson’s arrival in Chicago. Johnson, known for his innovative play-calling and ability to maximize quarterback performance, inherits a Bears team with a promising young quarterback in Caleb Williams. Williams’ rookie year wasn’t terrible, but it was undeniably disappointing, given the hype with which he entered the league. Johnson should make things easier on last year’s first-overall pick. In 2024, the Lions led the league with 3,544 passing yards on designed plays or plays targeting their first read. The Bears ranked second-to-last with over 1,000 fewer yards. Some easy-button throws will go a long way to increasing Caleb’s confidence (and fantasy value).

Johnson’s arrival could unlock Williams’ full potential, making him a potential breakout candidate in fantasy leagues. Johnson is a creative play-designer, a fearless play-caller and the person who coordinated the NFL’s most explosive offense. Now, he gets to work with Caleb Williams — a huge win for Williams and the Bears — and he also gets receivers Rome Odunze and DJ Moore and tight end Cole Kmet (and a lot of salary cap space to improve the roster, especially the offensive line).

Vrabel Returns to New England: A Defensive Renaissance?

In New England, the return of Mike Vrabel signals a potential shift towards a more physical and defensively oriented team. Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker and Super Bowl champion, brings a no-nonsense approach and a proven track record of success. Vrabel was the obvious target from the moment the Patriots fired Jerod Mayo, and the very rapid interview and hiring process made sure nobody else — read: Tom Brady and the Raiders — had a chance to woo him. This is the right hire for this job. Vrabel was an accomplished, tough, deeply respected Patriot as a player and because of his success in Tennessee — the Titans went to the playoffs three times, including an AFC Championship Game appearance, despite not having top-level quarterback play — he has immediate credibility.

While Vrabel’s impact on the Patriots’ offense remains to be seen, his defensive acumen could lead to improved performances from the team’s defensive players, making them valuable assets in IDP (Individual Defensive Player) leagues. McDaniels is charged with developing quarterback Drake Maye. The 2024 third-overall pick, now under the tutelage of the coach who made his reputation working with Tom Brady, is the reason for hope that the Patriots, with Vrabel in charge, can execute a quick turnaround.

Liam Coen Takes Over in Jacksonville: Can He Revive Lawrence?

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a splash by hiring Liam Coen as their new head coach. Coen, known for his offensive prowess and success in developing quarterbacks, is tasked with revitalizing Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars’ offense. Coen will have some talent to work with; running backs Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby should be thrilled, because Coen will presumably bring the running game back for the Jags, too, and receiver Brian Thomas Jr. is a rising star. This franchise is on its fourth coach in six seasons, and the team — especially Lawrence, who has been in a slump since the end of the 2023 season — needs some stability. As a first-time head coach, Coen’s choices for his staff will be especially important, particularly if, as it is assumed, he will be the offensive play-caller.

Coen’s offensive system could unlock Lawrence’s potential, making him a potential fantasy star. Additionally, Coen’s emphasis on the running game could benefit Travis Etienne, making him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.

Kellen Moore in New Orleans: A New Offensive Identity?

The New Orleans Saints brought in Kellen Moore to lead their team, hoping to inject new life into their offense. Moore, a rising star in the coaching ranks, has a reputation for his innovative play-calling and ability to maximize quarterback production. Moore finally became old enough to land his first head-coaching gig after OC stints with the Cowboys, Chargers and Eagles, with the latter and the first being the most successful gigs. Moore is a versatile play-caller in terms of playing to his team strengths and proved with Saquon Barkley in Philadelphia he doesn’t mind going run-heavy. The Saints are a tough spot, however, given their QB uncertainty, awful salary cap situation and odd place in hastening a full rebuild. There will be some lumps but it’s a good place for him to break free and lead an entire team.

Moore’s arrival could lead to a more dynamic and pass-heavy offense in New Orleans, potentially boosting the fantasy value of the team’s wide receivers and tight ends.

The Impact on Player Performances

These coaching changes are poised to significantly impact player performances and, consequently, their fantasy values. Here’s a breakdown of some players who could see their stock rise or fall based on their new coaching situations:

Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears): As mentioned earlier, Williams is a prime candidate for a breakout season under Ben Johnson’s tutelage. Johnson’s offensive system and quarterback-friendly approach could unlock Williams’ full potential, making him a top-tier fantasy quarterback.
Travis Etienne (Jacksonville Jaguars): With Liam Coen’s emphasis on the running game, Etienne could see an increase in carries and become a more consistent fantasy performer.
Drake Maye (New England Patriots): The Patriots were hasty to promote Jerod Mayo to replace Bill Belichick at first, but they were smart to reverse course after only one season and hire another former linebacker of theirs. Vrabel got the Titans to overachieve with hard-nosed defense and a dynamic, run-based offense. He can have that same impact to get more out of their players on both sides of the ball, starting with second-year QB Drake Maye.
DJ Moore and Rome Odunze (Chicago Bears): Johnson’s arrival should lift all boats in Chicago’s passing game, so expect D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze to benefit from the increased passing volume and improved offensive scheme.

Strategies for Fantasy Drafts

As you prepare for your fantasy drafts, keep these coaching changes in mind and adjust your player rankings accordingly. Here are a few strategies to consider:

Target players in offenses with new, innovative coaches: Players like Caleb Williams and Travis Etienne could be undervalued due to the uncertainty surrounding their new coaching situations. Take a chance on these players, as they could provide significant returns on your investment.
Monitor training camp reports: Pay close attention to training camp reports to get a sense of how the new coaching staffs are utilizing their players. This information can help you identify potential sleepers and avoid drafting players who are not a good fit for their new schemes.
Don’t be afraid to adjust your rankings: The NFL is a dynamic league, and things can change quickly. Be prepared to adjust your player rankings based on the latest news and information.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL season promises to be an exciting one, with new coaches bringing fresh ideas and strategies to their respective teams. By understanding these coaching changes and their potential impact on player performances, you can gain a significant edge in your fantasy leagues. So, do your research, stay informed, and get ready to dominate your drafts!