Ranking Every NFL Team by the Health of Its QB-Coach Relationship

The relationship between a NFL quarterback and coach is very important, but also unique. Each team features a different dynamic with different personalities. It is possible for a head coach and quarterback not to see eye to eye, but still win football games.

However, the strength of this relationship could actually impact the outcome of games. For example, if the coach doesn't trust his quarterback, he may hesitate to take risks with the football. Tony Romo and Jason Garrett seemed to have an issue this season during the New England game. Garrett decided to play it safe, likely because of Romo's early season struggles.

This relationship doesn't only impact games, but it also impacts job status. A coach's longevity depends heavily on the arm of his quarterback. We have seen plenty of good coaches lose their jobs because a quarterback was unable to win football games.

Ultimately, the coaches and quarterbacks need to find a way to trust each other. If they can find trust and respect, the likelihood for success is great. Unfortunately, there are many personalities at work that tend to sabotage some relationships.

No. 32 Denver Broncos: Tim Tebow and John Fox

Despite their recent success, I can't imagine things in the Denver Broncos organization are very pleasant. The entire football world is obsessed with quarterback Tim Tebow, either with a good or bad opinions. On one side of this Tebow situation is new head coach John Fox.

Fox took this job knowing about the presence of Tebow, but he couldn't have expected such a circus. Fox is a low-key coach, who doesn't like the spotlight. However, every decision he makes is now under the microscope, especially with his quarterback situation.

Fox is a defensive-minded coach who is stuck with a quarterback needing a specialized game plan. I just don't see how John Fox could really enjoy working with Tebow. I know he is a hard worker and is winning football games, but things haven't been easy.

Relationship Grade: D-

No. 31 Chicago Bears: Jay Cutler and Mike Martz

This is the only combination on the list that doesn't include the quarterback and head coach. I looked at the relationship between Jay Culter and Mike Martz because Lovie Smith rarely gets involved with the offense. Mike Martz is also a big personality who allows little interference in his offensive decisions.

Cutler and Lovie Smith seem to have a decent relationship, but Lovie doesn't love Cutler's struggles to protect the football. Smith believes that the offense is just there to complement his defense, who he expects to both produce stops and score points.

Martz and Culter put on a good public face, but I doubt there is much love between the two. Culter isn't built for Martz's offensive system. He prefers to see and throw to his target, rather than throwing to a spot and relying on timing.

Culter has also been subject to multiple hits and sacks, thanks to Martz's preference for seven-step drops and minimal protection. Both guys want to win, but would rather do it in different ways.

Relationship Grade: D-

No. 30 New York Jets: Mark Sanchez and Rex Ryan

New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan loves to play physical football, and puts a lot of his focus on the defensive side of the ball. However, Ryan is the head coach and also needs to pay attention to the offense. He wants his offense to "ground and pound," but also expects good quarterback play.

Ryan is a very passionate guy, who isn't afraid to voice his opinion. He often makes Super Bowl predictions, which he expects to be backed up on the field. Now in his third season, Mark Sanchez is expected to be capable of winning football games and help Ryan hold up his bold statements.

However, Sanchez has really struggled to develop into the type of quarterback capable of carrying his football team. He is surrounded by plenty of talent, but is still only completing 56 percent of his passes. Ryan expects to win, and right now Sanchez isn't helping the cause.

Relationship Grade: D-

No. 29 Jacksonville Jaguars: Blaine Gabbert and Jack Del Rio

During the offseason, the Jacksonville Jaguars management told Jack Del Rio that he needed to make the playoffs to save his job. This put a lot of pressure on the long-time coach, which doesn't usually foster a positive environment.

Del Rio was not only given an ultimatum, but had his starting quarterback taken away right before the start of the season. The release of David Garrard put Del Rio in a tough situation, where he was forced to start Luke McCown and then rookie Blaine Gabbert.

There is no scenario where Jack Del Rio was pleased about the release of David Garrard. It was basically a sign that he wasn't going to be returning as coach. I am sure Del Rio remains professional, but he can't be happy about starting a rookie quarterback with his job on the line.

Relationship Grade: D

No. 28 Miami Dolphins: Chad Henne/Matt Moore and Tony Sparano

At the end of this season it is very likely that both Tony Sparano and Chad Henne will no longer be with the Miami Dolphins. Both have failed to meet expectations, which will likely cost them their jobs. One could argue that Henne's lack of development is what will ultimately cost Sparano his job.

During the offseason, there were rumors that the Miami Dolphins were looking to acquire a quarterback to replace Chad Henne. The main target seemed to be Kyle Orton, but that trade never worked out. While Sparano doesn't make personal decisions, he likely played a role in the trade discussions.

Nobody is happy when jobs are on the line.

Relationship Grade: D

No. 27 Kansas City Chiefs: Matt Cassel and Todd Haley

From all accounts, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Todd Haley is very tough on his players and confrontational. Most of us will remember his sideline spat with Anquan Bolden, while Haley was the offensive coordinator in Arizona.

When a football team is winning, they can usually handle an in-your-face coach. However, when things get tough those coaches tend to wear on their players. Haley has already had a sideline blowup with his quarterback, Matt Cassel.

At this point, I don't see any way that Cassel and Haley are on good terms, especially with the way this season has gone.

Relationship Grade: D

No. 26 Cleveland Browns: Colt McCoy and Pat Shurmur

The Cleveland Browns hired Pat Shurmur as their head coach because of his ability to work with young quarterbacks. He was also brought in because of the familiarity between him, Mike Holmgren and Tom Heckert. Shurmur inherited Colt McCoy as his quarterback, but I get the feeling that this franchise is anything but committed to him.

There is a ton of pressure on McCoy to perform or he will be replaced. Shurmur has the out of saying that he had nothing to do with the drafting of McCoy. The more McCoy struggles the further Shurmur will distance himself.

Relationship Grade: D

No. 25 Washington Redskins: Rex Grossman/John Beck and Mike Shanahan

During the offseason, Mike Shanahan made several statements that led everyone to believe that John Beck was his starting quarterback. Other times, he made statements to contradict himself and ultimately went with Rex Grossman as his starter.

Shanahan's tenure in Washington has been very erratic, especially surrounding his quarterback decisions. The relationship between Shanahan and his quarterbacks cannot be stable. Each week he seems to change his mind, and both quarterbacks know they don't have a future with this franchise.

The only thing left to happen is for Shanahan to pull one during a two-minute drill and then provide several different explanations for that decision.

Relationship Grade: D

No. 24 Arizona Cardinals: Kevin Kolb and Ken Whisenhunt

Ken Whisenhunt and the Arizona Cardinals were desperate for an answer to their quarterback problems. They felt that if they brought in a veteran presence, they could make another run at the playoffs. This belief is what pushed through the trade for Kevin Kolb.

Kolb was the best veteran quarterback on the market, and also possessed upside. I am not sure if he was Whisenhunt's top choice, but he was the only choice. The early struggles of both Kolb and the football team has strained this relationship.

There is also probably the thought within management that Whisenhunt can be replaced if he isn't able to develop Kolb.

Relationship Grade: D+

No. 23 Seattle Seahawks: Tarvaris Jackson and Pete Carroll

The quarterback situation for the Seattle Seahawks is anything but settled. However, Pete Carroll tried his best to find a stopgap solution, by adding Tarvaris Jackson. Carroll didn't hesitate, as he immediately named Jackson the starter.

Pete Carroll has done everything he can to support Jackson, but how strong can their relationship be? Jackson has to know that he will eventually be replaced by a younger quarterback. No matter how much support Carroll provides, he will eventually be the guy that ends Jackson's run in Seattle.

Relationship Grade: D+

No. 22 San Francisco 49ers: Alex Smith and Jim Harbaugh

One of the first things San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh did was give a vote of confidence to Alex Smith. He felt that Smith would be able to run his offensive attack, and be successful. However, Harbaugh knew that Smith wasn't the long-term answer. This knowledge is what led to the drafting of Nevada's Colin Kaepernick in the second round of the 2012 draft.

There is a strong relationship between Smith and Harbaugh. Smith knew that he wasn't going to get another starting opportunity, an opportunity that was provided by Harbaugh. Harbaugh knew that Smith gave him the best chance to win now, and still decided to draft and develop a young quarterback.

This relationship is only beginning to grow, and will continue to blossom if the 49ers continue to win.

Relationship Grade: C-

No. 21 Dallas Cowboys: Tony Romo and Jason Garrett

Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett is a former quarterback who understands the pressures of the position. He also knows what it takes to be successful and win games. However, Garrett is no longer a quarterback; he is the head coach of a football team. This requires him to look at the big picture, not only focus on the quarterback.

Tony Romo is Jason Garrett's quarterback, but this season has put some strain on their relationship. Romo's poor decision-making versus the Detroit Lions and New York Jets has led to Garrett calling a more conservative game plan.

The best example of Garrett's fading trust was his conservative play-calling against the New England Patriots. He decided to try and run out the clock instead of allowing Romo to go for a game-ending score.

Relationship Grade: C-

No. 20 Minnesota Vikings: Christian Ponder and Leslie Frazier

Minnesota Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier was likely hoping that Donovan McNabb would succeed, making his first season easier. Instead, McNabb struggled which gave Frazier no choice but to turn to rookie Christian Ponder.

Ponder represents the future of the Minnesota Vikings. However, if he doesn't find a way to win games, that future might not include Leslie Frazier. The fact is that most coaches are provided with minimal chances to win.

The relationship between Ponder and Frazier is likely good, but deep down Frazier knows it's Ponder who will determine his fate.

Relationship Grade: C-

No. 19 Tennessee Titans: Matt Hasselbeck and Mike Munchak

New Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Munchak is in a unique situation. He is taking over for the very-popular Jeff Fisher, while also breaking in a new quarterback. Munchack and the Titans decided to draft Jake Locker, but bring in Matthew Hasselbeck as a mentor.

The relationship between Hasselbeck and Munchak is likely very strong, as both are looking to win games now. Munchak needs Hasselbeck to play well, so that he can keep his job. However, Hasselbeck knows that it will be Munchak who ultimately decides when his career is over.

At some point, Munchak is going to decide to turn it over to Jake Locker. That pressure is sure to eafect the relationship between Munchak and Hasselbeck.

Relationship Grade: C

No. 18 St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford and Steve Spagnuolo

St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo is a smart guy, who is known for his ability to develop a strong defensive game plan. Spagnuolo earned his head coaching opportunity based on his performance as the New York Giants defensive coordinator.

However, Spagnuolo knows that you cannot win championships without strong quarterback play. This fact is what ultimately led to the drafting of Sam Bradford. In his rookie season, Bradford played exceptional football, almost leading the Rams to the playoffs.

His excellent play and near playoff berth raised expectations in St. Louis. So, this year's struggles have really taken a toll on this football team. Spagnuolo seems like a reasonable guy, but when jobs are on the line relationships tend to strain.

Relationship Grade: C

No. 17 Buffalo Bills: Ryan Fitzpatrick and Chan Gailey

Chan Gailey landing the Buffalo Bills head coaching job was a bit of a surprise, and was met with some criticism. However, he has been able to get the most out of a team that lacks overwhelming talent. He has also been a major part in the development of Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick and Gailey seem to understand each other, but their relationship wasn't always perfect. Until Fitzpatrick's breakout this season, Gailey was actively looking for a quarterback of the future. However, he handled it the right way and kept Fitzpatrick in the loop.

The open line of communication between the two is the main reason they have a strong relationship.

Relationship Grade: C+

No. 16 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Josh Freeman and Raheem Morris

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris is known as a players' coach, someone who is able to relate well to his roster. He is a fair and understanding coach, who also demands a lot out of his team. When Morris took over this Tampa Bay team, he pushed to draft Josh Freeman.

Freeman and Morris had a bit of a relationship dating back to when both were at Kansas State. Morris coached the defense, but knew that Freeman was capable of becoming a star. There is an obvious trust and belief between the two.

Relationship Grade: C+

No. 15 Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Vick and Andy Reid

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid loves all quarterbacks, especially ones that allow him to open up his playbook. However, Reid has shown a recent history of going with the hot hand and not sticking with his guy. That statement might be a bit harsh, but he did quickly move on from Kevin Kolb and trade Donovan McNabb. Ultimately, Reid just wants to win football games.

Michael Vick should thank Andy Reid for the rebirth of his career. Vick seems to really respect and cherish his relationship with Andy Reid. Reid also has to believe in Vick, otherwise he wouldn't have pushed for him to get his new deal.

Relationship Grade: C+

No. 14 Baltimore Ravens: Joe Flacco and John Harbaugh

John Harbaugh and Joe Flacco's relationship is another one of those rookie head coach and rookie player situations. However this situation was a little different than most, as both experienced unprecedented success in their rookie seasons.

Harbaugh and Flacco's bond was forged through a long playoff run, that ended with a loss in the AFC Championship game. It is very rare to see a rookie head coach and quarterback lead their team to such heights.

These guys have a very strong relationship. However, one has to wonder if things are starting to crumble. Flacco has yet to take that next step, which has put both the coach and quarterback on a bit of a hot seat.

Relationship Grade: B-

No. 13 Cincinnati Bengals: Andy Dalton and Marvin Lewis

Cincinnati Bengals head coach had to feel betrayed by how Carson Palmer forced his way out of Cincinnati. Palmer was one of the few players on the Bengals roster who had star power. However, Palmer destroyed his relationship with Lewis by demanding a trade.

Despite Lewis wanting Palmer to return, he seemed to deep down want a fresh start. Lewis was willing to allow Chad Ochocinco to walk, and now would have to deal without Palmer. However, both players were part of the negativity surrounding the franchise.

Drafting Andy Dalton has brought a breath of fresh air to this team. Everyone, including Lewis, seems resurrected and ready for success. I have no doubt that Lewis is very thankful for Dalton and the way he approaches the game.

Relationship Grade: B-

No. 12 Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford and Jim Schwartz

Both Matthew Stafford and Jim Schwartz were charged with leading the Detroit Lions away from the shame of a 0-16 season. Detroit's putrid 2008 season brought about a ton of changes, including a new head coach and quarterback.

Schwartz knew that he needed to find a franchise quarterback if he wanted to have any success. Luckily, Schwartz was able to land Matthew Stafford in his first draft. Stafford gave the Lions hope and direction. Schwartz had his quarterback and now needed to focus on building the rest of the football team.

These two have a good relationship, but I wonder how much Schwartz trusts Stafford. It might be unfair but Stafford has earned the label of injury-prone. NFL coaches have short careers when they rely on a quarterback who can't stay healthy.

Relationship Grade: B-

No. 11 Houston Texans: Matt Schaub and Gary Kubiak

When Gary Kubiak took over as head coach of the Houston Texans, he had to deal with trying to resurrect the career of shell-shocked David Carr. However, Carr was never able to solidify himself as Kubiak's quarterback. This led to the release of Carr, and the trade for Matt Schaub.

Kubiak felt that Schaub had showed enough in limited time for the Atlanta Falcons that he was willing to execute the trade. The addition of Schaub gave Kubiak his quarterback of the future, while it gave Schaub the opportunity to start.

Relationship Grade: B-

No. 10 Carolina Panthers: Cam Newton and Ron Rivera

Leading up to the 2011 NFL draft, Cam Newton was seen as a project quarterback who had plenty of flaws. However, he also possessed tremendous talents, causing many to see star potential. Newton was anything but a guaranteed star, which was what made his selection as the top pick controversial.

When the Carolina Panthers' new head coach, Ron Rivera, jumped on board with the decision to draft Newton, he tied the fate of his success to Newton. However, all indications are that Rivera never wavered in his confidence with the young quarterback.

The controversy surrounding Newton's selection and Rivera's confidence is what strengthened their relationship. Young quarterbacks really appreciate a supportive head coach.

Relationship Grade: B

No. 9 New York Giants: Eli Manning and Tom Coughlin

Tom Coughlin took over a New York Giants team that finished 4-12, and desperately needed an answer at the quarterback position. Coughlin and the New York Giants brass decided that Eli Manning was their guy, and made a draft-day trade to ensure they got him.

Coughlin and Manning are a good match because they are both very committed to winning football games. They have different personalities, but they work well together. Manning's laid-back attitude allows him to easily handle the intense Coughlin.

Relationship Grade: B+

No. 8 Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan and Mike Smith

One of the first moves Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith did was help decide to draft Matt Ryan. Smith was in his first year as head coach, and he needed to find a way to rebuild this team after the Bobby Petrino and Michael Vick debacles. He and the other decision-makers felt that the best move was to draft Matt Ryan.

This was an excellent decision, as Ryan has emerged as a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback. Ryan and Smith's relationship grew, as they both worked to improve this Falcons franchise. Nobody should underestimate the relationship between a first-year head coach and rookie quarterback.

Relationship Grade: B+

No. 7 Indianapolis Colts: Peyton Manning and Jim Caldwell

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning and coach Jim Caldwell have been working together since the 2002 season. Caldwell was Manning's quarterback coach for six years, until he took over the head coaching duties.

Manning and Caldwell have worked closely together to build this high-powered Colts offense. As his position coach, Caldwell surely spent countless hours with Manning in the film room. Caldwell doesn't get promoted to head coach if he doesn't have a strong relationship with the face of the franchise.

As apparent by the 0-10 start, Manning is the most important player on this football team. Caldwell needs Manning, but Manning doesn't need Caldwell.

Relationship Grade: A-

No. 6 San Diego Chargers: Philip Rivers and Norv Turner

San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers owes a lot of his success to Norv Turner. Turner took over the Chargers head coaching job in 2007, three years after Rivers was drafted. Since Turner's arrival, Rivers has seen his numbers and development increase.

Rivers is a fiery guy who seems to mesh well with his head coach. Turner is known for being level-headed and working well with this players, and in this case opposites attract. While these guys have different personalities, they both love to compete and win.

Turner and Rivers have both benefited from each other, and it's apparent they realize this fact.

Relationship Grade: A-

No. 5 Oakland Raiders: Carson Palmer and Hue Jackson

Oakland Raiders head coach Hue Jackson and Carson Palmer have a long history, which dates back to their days at USC. Jackson was heavily involved in the recruitment of Palmer, and was then his offensive coordinator at USC.

Palmer and Jackson's relationship was then rekindled in Cincinnati, when Jackson was the wide receiver coach from 2004-2006. This familiarity is the main reason Jackson traded for Palmer to bring him to Oakland.

There is a lot of trust and respect between these two, which could eventually mean a lot of success for the Raiders.

Relationship Grade: A

No. 4 Pittsburgh Steelers: Ben Roethlisberger and Mike Tomlin

The relationship between Pittsburgh Steelers Ben Roethlisberger and Mike Tomlin is what makes the Steelers a perennial power. Of course, the defense also plays a major role, but it is Roethlisberger's play that puts them over the top.

If it wasn't for Roethlisberger and Tomlin's relationship, Big Ben might be playing for a different team. I feel that Tomlin was one of the main reasons Pittsburgh kept Roethlisberger after his off-the-field issues. There were a ton of rumors about the Steelers possibly moving their star quarterback. However, the relationship between the coach and quarterback helped keep Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh and the team contending for Super Bowl titles.

Relationship Grade: A

No. 3 New England Patriots: Tom Brady and Bill Belichick

The recent success of the New England Patriots is often credited to two people: Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. Belichick is seen as a football mastermind, who excels at identifying talent and drawing up game plans. Brady is seen as one of the top quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL.

Brady and Belichick have a very strong relationship, mainly because they know they need each other. Until Brady's emergence, Belichick really struggled in his other years as a head coach. Belichick is seen as a defensive guru, so having good quarterback play is very important to him.

Tom Brady is just one man, and football is a team sport. He needs guys like Belichick to surround him with talent. This is easier said than done, especially over an extended period of time. Belichick has been able to stock the team with talent each year.

Relationship Grade: A+

No. 2 Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was drafted in 2005, a year before Mike McCarthy took over as head coach. However, it didn't take long for these two to build a strong relationship. That relationship is what allows the Packers offense to operate so smoothly.

McCarthy instantly saw Rodgers' potential, which eventually led to the end of the Brett Favre era. There is a ton of trust between both of these guys. That trust is a major factor in the overall success of the offensive system. Green Bay's pass-happy offense would not exists if McCarthy didn't trust Aaron Rodgers.

It appears as though these guys are destinedd to continue winning football games.

Relationship Grade: A+

No. 1 New Orleans Saints: Drew Brees and Sean Payton

The relationship between New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton and Drew Brees is very strong. These two not only work together but consider themselves friends outside the workplace. It isn't very common for a boss and employee to become good friends.

Normally, their friendship would get in the way of their effectiveness. However, Brees and Payton are always on the same page. The success of the Saints offense is directly tied to the relationship between Payton and Brees.

These two have the same competitive fire and commitment to excellence. They also are fully committed to the franchise. At this point, these two appear to be inseparable.

Relationship Grade: A+