Ranking 32 NFL head coaches based on presidential potential

21 of 33

January 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy watches game action against Arizona Cardinals during the first half in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

13. Mike McCarthy – Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers are, naturally, one of the most well-respected, historically successful organizations in all of sports. In recent years, it’s been the task of Mike McCarthy to uphold the legacy of great Packers head coaches, and he’s done a damn good job of it. As such, the presidential positives — proven track record, steady-stoic leadership, strength of presence — are easy to see.

Since taking the job in 2006, the Packers have missed the playoffs only twice with McCarthy at the helm. It’s a run that includes three NFC Championship Game appearances and a Super Bowl win following the 2010 season. Not only that, but McCarthy has shown the uniquely presidential ability to put people in creative positions to succeed — and often in ways that other coaches might’ve never considered. His movement of Clay Matthews on the defensive side of the ball is a primary example of this, with McCarthy taking the All-Pro away from his natural position in order to free up both Matthews’ potential and the malleability of the defense as a whole.

Why doesn’t McCarthy crack the top 10? The fact is, the Green Bay front office is an absolute machine when it comes to dentifying top-tier talent and personnel moves. As such, McCarthy has very much been set up for success — akin to a solid president surrounding himself (or herself) with a historically great cabinet. You’re certainly not going to get the rap of being a bad president. But you’re not exactly Teddy Roosevelt, either.

Next: No. 12 Dan Quinn

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