Shane Steichen

Last Updated: 2025-08-21

Shane Steichen

  • Current Role: Head Coach of the Indianapolis Colts
  • Background: Former offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he helped lead the team to Super Bowl LVII.
  • Specialty: Known for his quarterback development and innovative offensive schemes.

Shane Steichen – NFL Head Coach Biography

Background and Early Life
Shane Steichen was born on May 11, 1985, in Sacramento, California. He attended Oak Ridge High School in El Dorado Hills, CA, and went on to play college football as a quarterback at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). While at UNLV, Steichen was a backup quarterback and spent most of his time learning the intricacies of the game, which would later fuel his coaching career. Coaching Career
  • Early Coaching Roles: Steichen began his coaching career as a student assistant at UNLV in
    2010. He quickly transitioned to the NFL, working as a defensive assistant with the San Diego Chargers in
    2011. He briefly spent time with the Cleveland Browns in 2013 as an offensive quality control coach before returning to the Chargers in 2014.
  • San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers (2011-2020): Steichen spent several years with the Chargers, working his way up through various offensive coaching roles, including offensive quality control, quarterbacks coach, and eventually being named interim offensive coordinator in
    2019. He was promoted to full-time offensive coordinator in
    2020. Under his guidance, rookie quarterback Justin Herbert had a record-setting season, winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
  • Philadelphia Eagles (2021–2022): Steichen joined the Philadelphia Eagles as their offensive coordinator in 2021 under head coach Nick Sirianni. He was instrumental in developing quarterback Jalen Hurts and guiding the Eagles' offense to major improvements. In 2022, the Eagles reached Super Bowl LVII, powered by one of the league’s top offenses.
  • Indianapolis Colts (2023–present): In February 2023, Steichen was named the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts. Tasked with rebuilding the franchise, Steichen brought his offensive expertise to Indianapolis and began working with young quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Coaching Highlights and Accomplishments
  • Helped develop top quarterbacks, including Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts
  • Played a key role in leading the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII (2022 season)
  • Recognized for innovative offensive schemes and adaptability
Relevant Facts
Shane Steichen is known for his quarterback development skills and creative offensive play-calling. Though he never played in the NFL, his rapid rise through the coaching ranks highlights his football intelligence and leadership ability. As the Colts' head coach, Steichen is one of the youngest head coaches in the NFL and is viewed as a promising leader for the team's future.

Legacy & Career Overview

Shane Steichen: NFL Head Coach - Long Biography

Early Life & Background
Shane Steichen was born on May 11, 1985, in Sacramento, California. Growing up in the football-rich state of California, Steichen developed a passion for football at a young age. He attended Oak Ridge High School in El Dorado Hills, California, where he was a standout athlete, particularly as a quarterback. His leadership and football IQ were evident even in his teenage years, setting the foundation for his future career in football. College Football Career
After a successful high school career, Steichen played college football at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). As a quarterback for the UNLV Rebels from 2003 to 2006, Steichen appeared in 23 games, starting in multiple contests. While his statistical achievements—2,755 passing yards and 22 touchdowns—may not have garnered national attention, Steichen’s grasp of the game and his understanding of offensive schemes made a lasting impression on his coaches and teammates. Transition to Coaching
Steichen’s playing career did not extend to the NFL, but his love for the game and keen football intellect quickly led him into coaching. He began his coaching journey as a graduate assistant at UNLV in 2010, before earning an entry-level NFL position with the San Diego Chargers as a defensive assistant in
2011. His early coaching years were marked by a relentless work ethic and a focus on learning the intricacies of the game from experienced coaches. Coaching Career & NFL Ascension
  • San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers (2011–2020): Steichen’s first major NFL opportunity came with the Chargers, where he steadily climbed the coaching ranks. He started as a defensive assistant (2011–2012), shifted to offensive quality control (2014–2015), and then became quarterbacks coach (2016–2019). His work with Philip Rivers and the quarterback room was widely praised by both players and staff.
  • Offensive Coordinator: In October 2019, Steichen was promoted to interim offensive coordinator after the Chargers fired Ken Whisenhunt. His impact was immediate, and he was officially named offensive coordinator in January
    2020. Under his guidance, rookie quarterback Justin Herbert delivered a historic rookie season in 2020, setting several rookie passing records and winning the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
  • Philadelphia Eagles (2021–2022): Steichen joined the Eagles as offensive coordinator under head coach Nick Sirianni. During his tenure, the Eagles’ offense flourished, especially with quarterback Jalen Hurts. In 2022, the Eagles led the NFL in rushing touchdowns (32) and finished third in total offense. Steichen’s play-calling and offensive innovation played a significant role in the Eagles’ run to Super Bowl LVII, where they narrowly lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
  • Indianapolis Colts (2023–present): On February 14, 2023, Shane Steichen was named the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts. Tasked with revitalizing a franchise in transition, Steichen brought his offensive acumen and quarterback development expertise to Indianapolis. In his first season, he oversaw the development of rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson and guided the team through a competitive AFC South.
Coaching Philosophy & Impact
Steichen is known for his creativity, adaptability, and quarterback-friendly systems. He has a reputation for tailoring his offensive schemes to the strengths of his players, particularly his quarterbacks. This flexibility has resulted in successful tenures with both established veterans like Philip Rivers and dynamic young talents like Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts. Steichen is lauded for his attention to detail, ability to simplify complex concepts, and leadership in high-pressure situations. Accomplishments & Highlights
  • Instrumental in Justin Herbert’s record-breaking rookie season (2020 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year).
  • Helped lead the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl LVII (2022 season).
  • Oversaw the Eagles’ offense finishing top-5 in multiple statistical categories in 2022.
  • Guided the development of multiple Pro Bowl quarterbacks.
Personal Life & Legacy
Shane Steichen is married and the father of two children. Off the field, he is known for his humility, strong work ethic, and commitment to his family. As one of the youngest head coaches in the NFL, Steichen’s trajectory continues to rise. He is viewed around the league as one of the brightest offensive minds and a potential long-term leader capable of building competitive, innovative teams. Conclusion
Shane Steichen’s journey from a high school quarterback in California to an NFL head coach is a testament to his intelligence, adaptability, and passion for football. With a proven track record of developing quarterbacks and leading high-powered offenses, Steichen’s future in the NFL appears exceedingly bright. Fans and analysts alike are eager to watch how he shapes the Indianapolis Colts in the coming years and continues to impact the game at its highest level.

Coaching Timeline

YearTeam
2023INDIND
2024INDIND
2025INDIND