When it comes to NFL coaching legends, a few names rise above the rest, leaving behind a legacy of big wins, thrilling games, and unforgettable seasons. These coaches didn’t just lead teams—they built dynasties, shaped the game, and racked up some jaw-dropping records along the way.
From Bill Belichick’s reign in New England to Don Shula’s unmatched 1972 perfect season with the Dolphins, these icons have made their mark on football history in ways that still set the standard today. And the race isn’t over with a couple of active coaches like Belichick and Andy Reid still climbing.
Let’s dive into the NFL’s most winningest coaches and what makes each of them a legend in their own right.
5. Tom Landry – 270 Wins
Landry was the face of the Dallas Cowboys for an astounding 29 years straight, holding the NFL record for the longest consecutive coaching tenure with one team. Under Landry, the Cowboys saw an incredible 20 consecutive winning seasons. Known for his innovative mind, Landry developed the iconic 4-3 defense, which still influences defensive schemes today.
During his time with Dallas, Landry led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories, defeating the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI and the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XII. His creativity and adaptability earned him recognition as NFL Coach of the Year in 1966 and UPI Coach of the Year in 1975. In honor of his impact on the sport, he was named to the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, solidifying his legacy in football history.
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4. Andy Reid – 292 Wins (Active)
Andy Reid, known for his offensive genius and ability to develop top-tier quarterbacks, has left an indelible mark on the NFL. Reid is the only coach in NFL history to secure over 100 wins with two teams: the Philadelphia Eagles, where he coached from 1999 to 2012, and the Kansas City Chiefs, where he has been since 2013.
With the Eagles, Reid led his team to multiple playoff appearances. He reached three straight NFC Championship games from 2001 to 2003. Reid also guided the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance in 2004. However, he claimed his first Lombardi Trophy with the Chiefs in 2020. In the following years, he added two more titles. With Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, the Chiefs became a powerhouse. Reid’s win total is expected to keep climbing.
3. George Halas – 324 Wins
George Halas, known as “Mr. Everything,” didn’t just coach football; he helped shape it. As a co-founder of the NFL and the creator of the Chicago Bears, Halas held many roles within the organization, including player, coach, and executive. Halas coached the Bears for 40 seasons, achieving a remarkable 324 wins. Under his leadership, Chicago claimed eight NFL championships—an impressive feat in any era.
Halas created the T-formation, revolutionizing football offenses and leading to a historic 73-0 victory over Washington in the 1940 NFL Championship Game. Despite his success, Halas only suffered six losing seasons across his coaching career. AP named him NFL Coach of the Year twice, in 1963 and 1965, and the NFL honored him on the 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.
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2. Bill Belichick – 333 Wins (Active)
Many consider Bill Belichick the greatest NFL coach of all time, and his record supports that reputation. Belichick has earned an NFL-record eight Super Bowl titles—six as the head coach of the New England Patriots and two as an assistant coach with the New York Giants. He holds the record for the most playoff wins by any head coach, with 31 postseason victories.
Nicknamed the “Patriot Way,” Belichick’s system led the Patriots to unparalleled success. He was named AP’s NFL Coach of the Year in 2003, 2007, and 2010. If he returns to coaching, Belichick could potentially surpass Don Shula for the most regular-season wins, as he is only 26 wins away from that milestone. Counting regular and postseason games, he trails Shula by just 14 wins, making him the coach with the most wins in NFL history.
1. Don Shula – 347 Wins
At the top is Don Shula, who holds the record for most NFL coaching wins with 347 victories. Shula began his head coaching career with the Baltimore Colts in 1963. He led the Colts to an NFL championship in 1968. In 1970, he became the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. He solidified his legacy with two Super Bowl wins. Shula’s Dolphins achieved a perfect season in 1972, the only undefeated season in NFL history.
Shula’s consistency was unmatched; he was named AP’s NFL Coach of the Year four times throughout his career. His impressive winning record, whether counting just regular-season wins (328) or including playoff wins (347), remains unbeaten, setting him as the benchmark for future coaches.
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