Steichen's ranking comes despite the Colts missing playoffs with a below .500 record and a seven-game losing streak to end last season. The ranking only includes 22 returning head coaches, excluding new hires.
Daugherty notes Steichen has kept a 'dysfunctional franchise on the tracks' with a 25-26 record and no playoff appearances in three seasons. He's praised for strong game planning and play calling, but the team has struggled to overcome adversity late in seasons.