TRENDSETTERS: How Sean McVay, Kyle Shanahan and Sean Payton LEAD NFL Offensive Innovation

Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan set the gold standard for NFL offensive play callers, but which coaches are closing the gap? Joe Marino and Kyle Crabbs tier every offensive play caller, spotlighting an evolving landscape filled with new names and high-stakes battles for supremacy. With 19 first-year play callers and 10 coaching staff changes, the NFL’s offensive minds face a shake-up—can newcomers like Liam Cohen and Ben Johnson challenge established heavyweights? The hosts debate Andy Reid’s recent struggles despite Patrick Mahomes at quarterback, the creative yet sometimes chaotic approach of Mike McDaniel, and Klint Kubiak’s reputation for run-heavy schemes. Key topics include the importance of play design versus play calling, the challenges of blending new systems with quarterback talent, and which coordinators could emerge as future head coaches. Get expert insights on the coaches shaping the league’s next offensive evolution and which teams may see a breakthrough—or a breakdown—in 2026.