Established in 2001, the Greasy Neale Award is a distinguished honor in professional football, awarded annually to the NFL's most outstanding head coach. This prestigious accolade recognizes exceptional leadership, strategic innovation, and significant impact on the game. The award is named in tribute to Earle "Greasy" Neale, a revered figure in football history known for his groundbreaking career as both a college and professional football coach.
Earle "Greasy" Neale is celebrated for his impressive coaching career, which includes notable achievements in both college and professional football. Neale's legacy is particularly marked by his success as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, where he led the team to two NFL Championships in 1948 and 1949. Known for his innovative strategies and his ability to inspire and develop players, Neale's influence extended beyond his tenure, shaping the future of coaching in professional football.
The Greasy Neale Award honors coaches who embody the visionary leadership, strategic excellence, and dedication that Neale exemplified throughout his career. By recognizing the top NFL coach each year, the award upholds Neale’s legacy, celebrating those who demonstrate exceptional skill in leading their teams to success. This esteemed accolade ensures that Neale’s remarkable contributions to professional football are continually acknowledged and celebrated.
2023 "GREASY" NEALE AWARD WINNER:
In 2023, Dan Campbell led the Detroit Lions to a remarkable season, guiding the team to a 12-5 record and securing the NFC North title for the first time since 1993. His leadership and innovative strategies were pivotal in transforming the Lions into playoff contenders. Campbell’s ability to motivate and develop talent was evident throughout the season, as the team showcased significant improvements on both offense and defense. This is Campbell's first Greasy Neale Award, recognizing his exceptional coaching and impactful influence on the Lions' success.
