In the realm of professional football, it is not unusual for players to transition into coaching roles. Nevertheless, Sean Mannion’s path from serving as an NFL backup quarterback to assuming the position of quarterbacks coach for the Green Bay Packers within a single year is particularly remarkable and commendable.

Youth and Professional Football Career 

Sean Mannion, born in San Jose, California, was introduced to football early in life as the son of a high school football coach.

His enthusiasm for the sport took him to Oregon State University, where he established school records for career passing touchdowns and completion percentage.

In the 2015 NFL Draft, Mannion was chosen in the third round by the St. Louis Rams. Throughout the subsequent nine seasons, he played for the Rams, Minnesota Vikings, and Seattle Seahawks, mainly as a backup quarterback.

Although he had limited chances to play, Mannion’s commitment to the sport and his grasp of quarterback mechanics were demonstrated.

Shift to Coaching

Following the conclusion of the 2023 NFL season, Mannion acknowledged that his career as a player was approaching its end.

Eager to stay involved in the football industry, he took the initiative to connect with various NFL professionals, including Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, with whom he had previously collaborated during his tenure with the Rams.

Mannion crafted a presentation for interviews, familiarized himself with play diagramming software, and compiled an extensive film library to demonstrate his dedication to coaching.

LaFleur, impressed by Mannion’s proactive approach and thorough preparation, responded favorably.

This led to Mannion’s appointment as an offensive assistant with the Packers in 2024, where he collaborated closely with quarterbacks coach Tom Clements and assistant quarterbacks coach Connor Lewis, gaining invaluable insights and experience.

Stepping into Big Shoes

After Clements’ retirement at the judgment of the 2024 season, Mannion ascended to the role of quarterbacks coach.

In this capacity, he is tasked with mentoring Jordan Love, the starting quarterback for the Packers, who has demonstrated potential yet encountered obstacles in his growth.

Mannion’s background as a backup quarterback equips him with valuable perspectives on the challenges and intricacies of the position. A key area of focus for Mannion has been the enhancement of Love’s footwork, which is a crucial element of effective quarterbacking.

Leveraging his own experiences alongside the principles taught by LaFleur, Mannion underscores the necessity of maintaining consistent and accurate footwork to improve both accuracy and decision-making.

This foundational training is designed to boost Love’s performance and contribute to the offensive success of the Packers

A Coach’s Perspective

Mannion’s transition from player to coach has been marked by a deep understanding of the quarterback position. His ability to recall systems and his dedication to the craft have been praised by colleagues.

Packers passing game coordinator Jason Vrable noted Mannion’s intelligence and work ethic, highlighting his commitment to the behind-the-scenes work that is crucial for coaching success.

Furthermore, Mannion’s approach to coaching is rooted in his experiences as a backup quarterback. He often spent more time with the starting quarterbacks than with his own family, a testament to his dedication.

This perspective allows him to relate to players like Love and Malik Willis, helping them digest complex offensive installs and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the NFL.

Expert Editorial Comment

With the onset of the 2025 NFL season, Mannion’s position as quarterbacks coach will be crucial in influencing the offensive strategies of the Packers.

His combination of playing experience, coaching expertise, and insight into quarterback dynamics establishes him as an essential contributor to the team’s growth.

Driven by a dedication to mentorship and a profound enthusiasm for the sport, Mannion is set to leave a significant mark on both the Packers and the broader NFL coaching community.