Shane Steichen has proven to be a capable and promising head coach, but one glaring weakness continues to hinder his team’s success: the inconsistency at the quarterback position. In his time as the head coach, Steichen has demonstrated impressive coaching acumen, yet his record of 17-17 reflects a reality that no coach, no matter how skilled, can truly escape—the critical importance of solid quarterback play.
The Story of Steichen’s Coaching
Steichen’s journey as a head coach has been filled with promising moments, and his coaching prowess cannot be ignored. Despite a record that stands at .500, his ability to manage the game, make critical decisions, and develop his team’s offensive scheme has been evident. It’s no surprise that his time as an offensive coordinator has shaped his approach to managing a team, with an emphasis on play calling and offensive strategy.
Unfortunately, the reality of inconsistent quarterback play has been a significant obstacle for Steichen. In 2024, the team saw the emergence of Gardner Minshew, but while Minshew showed flashes of brilliance, his play ultimately relied heavily on Steichen’s play calling. The offense, while occasionally effective, often struggled with consistency, particularly in high-pressure moments. Steichen, however, demonstrated his ability to adapt the offense to his quarterback’s strengths, adjusting the playbook to give Minshew every opportunity to succeed.
Moving into 2025, the quarterback situation remained turbulent. Steichen’s team continued to see sporadic performances from the QB position, with neither the incumbent nor the newcomers able to fully stabilize the offense. Inconsistency reigned, and Steichen found himself navigating the difficult waters of developing a cohesive offensive unit in the face of fluctuating quarterback performances.
17-17 Record: A Testament to Steichen’s Coaching
Despite the challenges at quarterback, Steichen's 17-17 record as head coach should not be overlooked. In today’s NFL, where quarterback play often determines the fate of teams, a .500 record is a testament to the head coach’s ability to manage his roster, make in-game adjustments, and motivate his players. Steichen’s work in developing a competitive team despite his quarterback issues deserves recognition.
For many, a 17-17 record might be seen as underwhelming, but considering the circumstances surrounding Steichen’s quarterback situation, it is a remarkable achievement. With a quarterback who can consistently perform, this record could easily shift into one that includes multiple playoff appearances and perhaps even a championship contention.
The Future of Steichen's Coaching Career
If Steichen can find consistent quarterback play—whether through development or acquiring a more stable QB—it is not out of the realm of possibility that he will see his team’s performance improve drastically. A good quarterback can elevate a team’s play, and with Steichen’s play-calling ability and overall coaching expertise, the sky’s the limit for what this team can achieve.
While Steichen has his faults, as all coaches do, the fact that he has managed to maintain a .500 record with inconsistent quarterback play is impressive. His ability to adapt to his quarterbacks’ strengths, to work with what he’s given, and to manage his team through ups and downs is a clear indication that Steichen has what it takes to be a successful head coach in the NFL.
As the 2025 season continues and Steichen continues to refine his team, one thing is clear: with good quarterback play, the potential for this team to break through is enormous. Steichen's growth as a head coach is still in its early stages, and with the right pieces in place, he could soon lead his team to the next level.
