Sean McVay just earned a major honor that proves his respect extends beyond the NFL. The Los Angeles Rams head coach ranked No. 22 on The Athletic’s 2025 top leaders list, voted by over 100 sports voices worldwide.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Official Ranking: McVay finished 22nd out of 40 leaders, beating LeBron James across all sports.
- Survey Details: The Athletic surveyed over 100 coaches, players, and executives about top sports leaders in 2025.
- Elite Company: Only 6 other NFL figures ranked higher, including Andy Reid (No. 5) and Patrick Mahomes (No. 15).
- Career Achievement: McVay is only 39 years old with 80-52 regular season record and one Super Bowl championship.
McVay Beats LeBron James Among All Sports Leaders
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Sean McVay outlasted some of the biggest names in sports to land a prestigious spot on The Athletic’s most-admired leaders list. The Rams head coach ranked 22nd overall, placing him ahead of NBA legend LeBron James, a four-time champion.
The list recognized active coaches, players, and executives from 2025. Aaron Judge, the Yankees slugger, finished just behind McVay at No. 23. Becky Hammon, Las Vegas Aces coach, positioned him at No. 21. This demonstrates McVay’s impact transcends football.
NFL Dominance in Top Leaders Rankings
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The NFL dominated the top ranks of The Athletic’s survey. Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs claimed the No. 5 spot, while Dan Campbell’s surging Detroit Lions placed him at No. 8. Patrick Mahomes secured No. 15 as the league’s youngest elite quarterback.
Mike Tomlin (former Pittsburgh Steelers) ranked No. 10, while Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles earned No. 12. Pete Carroll landed at No. 13. McVay stands among this company after just nine seasons coaching.
McVay’s Credentials and Rapid Rise
| Achievement | Details |
| Youngest Coach Ever | Hired at age 30 in 2017 |
| Super Bowl LVI Champion | Youngest coach to win a Super Bowl |
| Regular Season Record | 80 wins and 52 losses |
| Playoff Record | 8 wins and 5 losses |
| Franchise Wins | Winningest head coach in Rams history |
“It’s hard to believe that McVay is not yet 40. He’s guided the Rams to two Super Bowl appearances and won Super Bowl LVI, all while exemplifying elite leadership standards.”
— The Athletic, Top Leaders Credentials
Why McVay Ranks Below Some NFL Peers
McVay’s placement may seem low compared to other NFL elite coaches, but his timing explains the gap. He operates in his ninth season as head coach, shorter than peers like Reid (longer tenure) and Campbell (recent explosive success).
More importantly, championship count matters in these surveys. While McVay won Super Bowl LVI, some peers have multiple titles. The Rams enter the divisional round this season, giving McVay a chance to add another championship to his resume soon.
What Makes This Recognition So Significant?
The Athletic’s survey reveals McVay’s influence extends beyond football. His leadership philosophy, innovative offensive schemes, and composed demeanor attract respect from 100+ sports voices across multiple leagues.
McVay’s coaching tree continues expanding, with former assistants securing head coach interviews at other franchises. His steady, improvement-focused messaging resonates across sports culture. At just 39 years old, McVay likely has many more years to climb this list further.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.