Assistant Coach of the Year: Matt Eberflus, DC, Indianapolis Colts
This season could have been really bad for the Indianapolis Colts. They were completely jerked around by Josh McDaniels, who they initially hired as the head coach. Then, the New England Patriots offensive coordinator had a change of heart and stayed put with the Pats.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Sure, no one can blame a guy for deciding to do what he felt was right for himself. However, that changes when said coach starts hiring a staff. That’s what happened with the Colts as McDaniels had picked a few assistants already, including Matt Eberflus who left his job as the linebackers coach with the Dallas Cowboys.
Thankfully for Eberflus, new head coach Frank Reich was a man of character and kept the defensive coordinator on staff. Both men ended up benefiting from that decision as Eberflus excelled in his new role.
In 2017, the Colts were one of the worst defenses in the league. They were 30th in both points surrendered and yardage. This season, the rookie defensive play-caller improved them to the No. 10 ranked defense in total points and 11th in yards.
Eberflus was so impressive he started getting interviews for head coach jobs — and was considered a legitimate candidate for the Cleveland Browns vacancy which ended up going to Freddie Kitchens who already had a relationship with the front office there.
Don’t be surprised to see Eberflus’ name pop up again next time there are head coaching jobs as he’s a rising star in the NFL.